Gurril, Storm Bird
Gurril, Storm Bird
Gurril, Storm Bird is a vibrant Aboriginal children's picture book by Gimuy Walubara Yidinji author Trevor Fourmile, illustrated by Jingalu.
Based on a traditional story of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people of Cairns, this powerful First Nations story has been passed down orally through generations and shares important cultural knowledge about the Rainbow Serpent, rain, storms and the natural world.
Young Gurril cannot understand why everyone is afraid of Gudju-gudju, the powerful Rainbow Serpent. Believing the serpent is nothing more than a snake, Gurril sets out to prove his bravery. But when he disturbs Gudju-gudju, he discovers just how powerful the Rainbow Serpent really is.
The story explains the origins of the storm bird, the black cockatoo, whose call signals the arrival of rain and the wet season. The story also connects children with Yidinji knowledge of weather, seasons, Country and the natural environment.
With bold, colourful illustrations and a captivating traditional story, Gurril, Storm Bird provides young readers with an opportunity to experience a First Nations story from the Cairns region while learning about Yidinji culture and connection to Country.
Why You'll Love It
A traditional Yidinji story: Experience a story of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji people of Cairns that has been shared across generations.
Learn about the Rainbow Serpent: Introduces children to Gudju-gudju and its important place within this traditional story.
Discover the storm bird: Children learn how the call of the black cockatoo signals the coming of rain and the wet season.
Connect with Country: The story provides opportunities to explore relationships between people, animals, weather, seasons and the natural environment.
Beautiful First Nations artwork: Illustrator Jingalu brings the story to life with vibrant, full-page illustrations and striking depictions of Gudju-gudju.
Rich cultural storytelling: Provides an opportunity for children to encounter traditional Yidinji knowledge through children's literature.
Great for early learning: A compelling story for young children that encourages discussion about weather, animals, seasons and storytelling.
Recognised by the CBCA: Gurril, Storm Bird was named a 2024 CBCA Notable Book in the Early Childhood category.
Ideal for classrooms and libraries: Supports learning about First Nations perspectives, Australian environments, oral storytelling and cultural knowledge.
A memorable Australian story: Combines adventure, mythology, animals and environmental knowledge in an engaging picture book.
Book Details
Author: Trevor Fourmile
Illustrator: Jingalu
Author's heritage: Gimuy Walubara Yidinji
Illustrator's heritage: Bagawa woman from Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl Country
Publisher: Magabala Books
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781922613455
Age: 4+ / approximately 5–8 years
Published: 2023
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Region: Cairns, Queensland
Themes: Yidinji culture, Rainbow Serpent, storms, rain, seasons, black cockatoos and oral storytelling