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Black Cockatoo is a poignant vignette that gently follows 13-year-old Mia, a young Aboriginal girl from a remote community in the Kimberley, as she begins to understand the delicate threads that tie her to culture, family and identity. Grieving the emotional distance growing between her and her older brother, Mia feels overwhelmed by the changes around her and unsure how to respond. When she rescues a black cockatoo—her totem animal, the dirrarn—everything begins to shift. Through this meaningful encounter, Mia starts to uncover her inner strength, drawing courage from her connection to country and culture. This story is both powerful and understated, offering young readers a glimpse into the complexities of growing up Aboriginal in Australia while providing universal themes of resilience, belonging and self-discovery. Beautifully written and accessible for readers of all backgrounds, Black Cockatoo is a profound and culturally rich narrative that opens important conversations in classrooms and homes.
Applications and Use
• Guided Reading Text: Suitable for small group discussion focused on character, symbolism and cultural understanding.
• Cross-Curricular Learning: Supports units on Indigenous perspectives, identity and environmental awareness.
• Family Reading: Encourages intergenerational discussion around tradition, courage and emotional connection.
• Introductory Literature: An ideal short fiction text for exploring themes of voice, place, and social change.
Features
• Powerful Totem Theme: The dirrarn (black cockatoo) symbolises strength, transformation and cultural connection.
• Concise Format: A short but deeply layered story ideal for reluctant readers or time-limited classroom use.
• Culturally Grounded: Authentically represents the lived experience of Aboriginal youth in remote communities.
• Emotional Resonance: Addresses grief, hope and personal growth with sensitivity and care.
Specifications
• Age Recommendation: Suitable for readers aged 10+; excellent for upper primary and lower secondary levels.
• Format: Paperback, 40 pages.
• Dimensions: 198mm (H) x 128mm (W).
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