An Important Message from Mr Beaky
An Important Message from Mr Beaky
An Important Message from Mr Beaky is a colourful and engaging First Nations children's picture book by Taungurung woman Cassie Leatham and author Sue Lawson.
Meet Mr Beaky, a cheeky blue and white budgerigar with an important message about Aboriginal identity, culture, acceptance and belonging.
Mr Beaky may look different from the green and yellow budgerigars commonly seen in the Australian bush, but he is still a native Australian bird. Through Mr Beaky's story, children are encouraged to understand that people, just like budgerigars, can look different while still belonging to the same community.
The story introduces children to Taungurung language, Country and the importance of showing respect to Elders and Country. It also helps young readers understand that Aboriginal people do not all look the same and that identity is connected to culture, Country, family and spirit.
The book begins with a Taungurung welcome to Country and includes a map showing where Mr Beaky's home is on Taungurung Country in Victoria.
With gorgeous photographs of the real Mr Beaky and an accessible story for young readers, this book provides a wonderful starting point for conversations about First Nations culture, identity, language, acceptance, respect and reconciliation.
Why You'll Love It
A memorable character: Meet Mr Beaky, a blue budgerigar with a big message about identity and belonging.
Introduces Taungurung language: Children encounter Taungurung words and learn about Taungurung Country.
Celebrates identity: Encourages children to understand and respect the differences that make each person unique.
Supports reconciliation: Creates opportunities to talk about Aboriginal culture, acceptance and respect.
Great for classrooms: A useful resource for exploring First Nations perspectives, identity, culture and caring for Country.
Book Details
Title: An Important Message from Mr Beaky
Authors: Cassie Leatham & Sue Lawson
Illustrator: Cassie Leatham
Cultural connection: Taungurung, Kulin Nation
Publisher: Wild Dog Books
Format: Hardback
Pages: 32
ISBN: 9781742036533
Published: 2022
Age: 5+
Language: English with Taungurung language
Genre: First Nations Children's Picture Book
Themes: Aboriginal identity, culture, heritage, acceptance, Taungurung language, Country, respect and reconciliation