A Kunwinjku counting book by Gabriel Maralngurra & Felicity Wright

A Kunwinjku Counting Book is a stunning new release celebrating the Kunwinjku language of the Bininj people whose home is West Arnhem Land, a region in the Northern Territory. Artist Gabriel Maralngurra has presented his traditional style of rock painting with a contemporary touch, in a wonderful counting book which showcases twelve different animals on a double page spread with a full-page illustration plus a page of easily accessible and interesting information.

Each of the animals is introduced in English which is then followed by the same introduction in Kunwinjku. For example:  One sharp crocodile with many sharp teeth - Nakudgji kinga kakarrne kunyidme.  Following this is information about the animal, their habitat, behaviour and how the Bininj people interact with the animal. Included in the animals of this region are the knob-tailed geckos, snapping turtles, freshwater prawns, barramundi, dragonflies, snake-necked turtles, goannas, spoonbills, wallabies, echidnas, and water pythons.

In the final pages of the book is valuable information on the Ancient Tradition of rock art, Tools and Techniques, and the seasons of the West Arnhem Land. There is also a wonderful introduction to Gabriel Maralngurra, followed by a Note on Pronunciations.

This very special book has a place in all libraries. A wonderful resource for both primary and secondary students.

Themes: Bininj - First Nations People, Storytelling, West Arnhem Land Northern Territory, First Nation Language - Kunwinjku, Flora, Fauna, Rock Art, Ecology.

Kathryn Beilby