A Journey to Country, Baagii’s Memories
A Journey to Country, Baagii’s Memories
A Journey to Country: Baagii’s Memories is a deeply moving Aboriginal story by Gomeroi woman Mel Armstrong, illustrated by Kamilaroi and Dunghutti woman Priscilla Lawlor.
Based on Mel's lived experience caring for her grandmother, or baagii, through dementia, the book explores ageing, memory, family, culture, healing and the importance of culturally safe care.
Through Baagii's journey, readers are invited to consider dementia from an Aboriginal perspective and the importance of maintaining connections to family, culture, Country, spirituality and traditional ways of caring for Elders.
The story brings together the physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual aspects of ageing and the journey towards the Dreaming. It highlights the importance of seeing the whole person and respecting their identity, cultural needs, family connections and wishes.
Written simply to reach a range of ages, A Journey to Country: Baagii's Memories can support conversations between children, families, carers, health professionals and community members about dementia, ageing and the importance of culturally safe care.
Why You'll Love It
A story of family and love: Shares a deeply personal journey between a granddaughter and her baagii.
Explores dementia through an Aboriginal perspective: Opens conversations about memory, ageing, identity and care.
Celebrates culture and Country: Highlights the importance of cultural connection, family and Country.
Includes Gamilaraay language: Brings First Nations language into the story alongside English.
Supports meaningful conversations: A thoughtful resource for families, carers, educators and health professionals.
Book Details
Title: A Journey to Country: Baagii’s Memories
Author: Mel Armstrong
Illustrator: Priscilla Lawlor
Author's heritage: Gomeroi
Illustrator's heritage: Kamilaroi and Dunghutti
Publisher: Warranggal Dreaming
Format: Picture book
Pages: [Check physical edition]
ISBN: 9780645369816
Published: 2025
Languages: English and Gamilaraay
Genre: First Nations Story / Educational Resource
Themes: Dementia, ageing, Elders, family, culture, healing, cultural safety, Country, spirituality and connection
A Journey to Country: Baagii’s Memories is a meaningful choice for families, educators, carers and professionals looking for Aboriginal books about dementia, First Nations stories about Elders, Gamilaraay language books and resources exploring culturally safe care.