Before It Was Called Science

Across these vast lands and skies, the First Peoples have walked with Country for thousands of years. They read the land and waters like a book. They knew the winds, watched the stars and listened deeply to the environment around them. They understood that to take care of Country is to take care of yourself, your family, and the generations yet to come.

Now, as we experience a changing climate and a fast-moving world, Before It Was Called Science reminds us how traditional knowledge can continue to guide us into the future. Organised into two main sections - BEFORE and NOW - Corey shares case studies from various communities, presented to suit kids aged 7-12 years.

Did you know that the first scientists invented sustainable ways of carrying food and water, unlike the single-use plastics and packaging we see today? Or that the first scientists could remove salt from seawater? You can also learn how communities today are protecting endangered animals or slowing the erosion of island beaches.

Featuring vibrant illustrations by Jaelyn Biumaiwai and a glow-in-the-dark cover, this is the perfect book to get kids excited about science and sustainability. Together, we can walk towards a better future, caring for Country as the first scientists always have.

About the Author

COREY TUTT OAM is a Kamilaroi man, and the CEO and founder of DeadlyScience, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide science resources to remote schools in Australia and connects young First Nations people with mentors in STEM. He was born on Yuin Country in Nowra on the New South Wales south coast, and now lives on Biripi/Dhungatti Country. In 2020, Corey was named the NSW Young Australian of the Year and a Human Rights Hero by the Australian Human Rights Commission. In 2022, Corey received an OAM for service to Indigenous STEM education. He is an A/Prof at Western Sydney University. This is Corey's fifth book following The First Scientists, This Book Thinks Ya Deadly!, Caution! This Book Contains Deadly Reptiles and Come Home, Bigibila.

JAELYN BIUMAIWAI is an illustrator of Mununjali and iTaukei Fijian ancestry, and lives and creates on Kombumerri Country, Gold Coast (forming part of the Yugambeh Language Region). Jaelyn's illustrations aim to support cultural identity and belonging among First Nations communities and the wider Pasifika diaspora, and cultural understanding among everyone. She creates illustrations that her younger self would've loved to see. Jaelyn's illustrations have appeared in several children's books, including Come Together by Isaiah Firebrace.