Rain on the Rock

Rain on the Rock is a stunning Australian children's picture book by Jodi Toering, beautifully illustrated by Valerie Brumby, celebrating Uluṟu, Kata Tjuṯa and the changing seasons of the Central Australian landscape.

Rising from the desert plain, Uluṟu stands strong beneath the vast Australian sky. For much of the year, the landscape is dry and hot, but when the rain arrives, everything changes.

Waterfalls flow down Uluṟu, rock pools fill, plants flourish and animals emerge as the landscape comes alive. Rain on the Rock captures the incredible transformation that rain brings to Uluṟu and the surrounding Kata Tjuṯa National Park.

Told with vivid imagery and in harmony with Aṉangu connection to Country, the story introduces children to the unique beauty and significance of one of Australia's most iconic landscapes.

The book includes integrated Pitjantjatjara language, giving young readers an opportunity to encounter Indigenous language alongside English while learning about Uluṟu, Country, plants, animals and changing seasons.

Created by Jodi Toering in collaboration with the Muṯitjulu Community, Rain on the Rock offers a thoughtful introduction to Uluṟu and the importance of Indigenous languages, culture and connection to Country.

Why You'll Love It

• Celebrates Uluṟu: Discover the changing beauty of Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa when rain transforms the landscape.

• Connects children with Country: Explores Aṉangu connection to Country and the significance of this special place.

• Introduces Indigenous language: Includes Pitjantjatjara words within the English text.

• Explore nature and seasons: Children can discover how rain affects plants, animals and the desert environment.

• Beautiful Australian artwork: Valerie Brumby's illustrations bring Uluṟu and its surrounding landscape vividly to life.

Book Details

• Title: Rain on the Rock

• Author: Jodi Toering

• Illustrator: Valerie Brumby

• Publisher: Hardie Grant Children's Publishing

• Format: Hardback

• Pages: 32

• ISBN: 9781760509880

• Age: 3–8 years

• Published: 29 January 2025

• Language: English with integrated Pitjantjatjara vocabulary

• Location: Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park

• Themes: Uluṟu, Aṉangu culture, Country, Indigenous languages, changing seasons, plants and animals

Rain on the Rock is a beautiful choice for families, educators and libraries looking for Aboriginal children's books, Uluṟu books for children, Australian nature picture books and First Nations stories about Country.