When the World Was Soft - Yindjibarndi Creation Stories
When the World Was Soft - Yindjibarndi Creation Stories
When the World Was Soft is a powerful graphic novel sharing the Creation stories of the Yindjibarndi people of the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Created by Juluwarlu Group Aboriginal Corporation, with dynamic illustrations by Alex Mankiewicz and artwork by members of the Juluwarlu Art Group, this unique book brings Yindjibarndi Creation-times to a contemporary audience while remaining grounded in Yindjibarndi knowledge, Country, language and culture.
Yindjibarndi knowledge teaches that creation is written across the landscape and was sung long ago, filling Ngurra (Country) with sacred meanings and deep cultural significance.
At the beginning of the story, Ngurra Nyujunggamu — the world — was soft as clay and the sky was very low. The Creator, Minkala, sang the songs from which life and Ngurra evolved.
Through a collection of six interconnected stories, young readers can explore Yindjibarndi understandings of creation, Country, animals, kinship, law and the responsibilities of caring for the land.
The stories have been passed down through generations, with grandmothers and grandfathers continuing to sing songs and share stories with younger generations.
Presented as a graphic novel, When the World Was Soft combines engaging visual storytelling with Yindjibarndi words, English translations and a glossary, giving readers an opportunity to encounter Yindjibarndi language alongside the stories and artwork.
Why You'll Love It
Authentic Yindjibarndi storytelling: Shares Creation stories collected and presented by the Juluwarlu Group Aboriginal Corporation.
Rich visual storytelling: Combines graphic novel illustrations with artwork by Yindjibarndi artists.
Explore Country and culture: Introduces ideas about Ngurra, creation, kinship, law and caring for Country.
Includes Yindjibarndi language: Features Yindjibarndi words alongside English and an extensive glossary.
Excellent for classrooms: Supports learning about First Nations culture, Creation stories, language, Country and storytelling.
Book Details
Title: When the World Was Soft: Yindjibarndi Creation Stories
Author: Juluwarlu Group Aboriginal Corporation
Illustrator: Alex Mankiewicz
Artwork: Members of the Juluwarlu Art Group
Publisher: Allen & Unwin
Format: Flexibound / paperback
Pages: 96
ISBN: 9781761180651
Published: 3 April 2024
Age: Approximately 10–14 years
Language: English with Yindjibarndi language
Genre: Graphic Novel / First Nations Children's Literature
Region: Pilbara, Western Australia
Themes: Creation, Country, culture, Dreaming, kinship, animals, law, language and storytelling