Papa says we’re going to a special place today.

‘If we djinang (look), ni (listen), goordoo (feel), we might hear boodjar wangkiny (earth speak). We might even feel her heartbeat.’

I wonder what that will sound like? Will the earth’s heart beat just like ours?

This picture book features Indigenous language as part of the story, exploring the intersection of culture, language and the environment. Noongar language is used to celebrate the earth and the different ways it speaks to people with eight Noongar words included within the story to help us connect Indigenous language with the environment. Karla for fire, kep for water, ni for listen.

As the children go for a bush walk on Noongar Country with their dad, they watch, listen and feel. The earth will speak to us if we listen, the story says. Water crashing onto rocks, the wind, leaves and grass crunching underfoot. We can see how the elements have shaped the land.

The illustrations are bright and fun as the family enjoy their day out on Country. At the front of the book is a QR code so readers can also listen to the story as it is intended and gain a full understanding of the beautiful Noongar language.

Earth Speak helps us understand the different ways we can connect to nature. It’s a welcome addition to books that connect Indigenous language and culture for all young readers.

Reviewed by Ashleigh Meikle

Age Guide 4+

ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATOR

Sean McCann is from Gadigal Country, NSW, but grew up on Dharawal land in southwest Sydney. In the early 1900s, his grandmother was placed into a mission on Gadigal land. Where she was taken from, and information about her parents, remains unknown. Sean currently lives on Noongar land in Perth with his wife and two young daughters. He is a small business owner, a rope access technician and a rigger working in remote areas of WA. Earthspeak is his first book.

Jade Goodwin is an illustrator and Gamilaroi woman. Her creative journey began at an early age in her grandparents’ screen-printing studio, where she would craft anything she could from the studio supplies. Her passion for creativity and illustration grew over time, eventually leading to a successful career in the children’s publishing industry. She is committed to showcasing a range of perspectives through her illustrations, with the aim of inspiring children and adults alike. She has illustrated numerous books including Ash Barty’s Little Ash series and My Dream for You.

Visit Jade Goodwin’s website