We first met Mia in
Black Cockatoo as she navigated her way through culture, Country and familial ties. The second book
Dirrarn, follows Mia as she finds herself at boarding school navigating the challenges of living thousands of kilometres away from home and family and maintaining her sense of identity and belonging.
In this final book, Mia is now studying Conservation and Wildlife Science at university whilst working part-time for a wildlife sanctuary when she is suddenly called upon to return home to her family. She is faced with the responsibility to protect the country, which her Jiwalji has given her. It is time for Mia to fight for country, and her education, knowledge and experience in wildlife science will guide her.
About the Authors
Carl Merrison is a respected Jaru/Kija man from the Halls Creek area who came WA runner up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. He has worked for over ten years alongside Aboriginal youth as a mentor and coach. Carl was the winner of the black&write! Fellowship in 2020 for his young readers' series
Backyard Sports, and his debut picture book,
My Deadly Boots, was shortlisted in the Queensland Literary Awards 2023 and the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards 2023.
Hakea Hustler is an experienced teacher who has taught around Australia, including in remote Aboriginal communities. Hakea is committed to Indigenous education with a focus on story as learning and empowerment.
Carl Merrison and Hakea Hustler's first book,
Black Cockatoo (Magabala Books), won Honour book in the CBCA Young Reader category.
Industry Reviews
Praise for
Black Cockatoo: This deceptively simple tale has a quiet power It is a reminder that gentleness is a form of strength. - Judges' comments, Readings Children s Book Prize
Praise for
Black Cockatoo: A delicate balance is maintained between presenting Indigenous culture in a way which inspires admiration and presenting the challenges faced in communities. - Judges' comments, CBCA Book of the Year: Younger Readers
Praise for
Black Cockatoo: This is a highly original and gentle small tale set in the Kimberley about the power of standing up for yourself, your culture and ever-present family ties. -
Halls Creek HeraldPraise for
Black Cockatoo: Subtle and touching,
Black Cockatoo reaches into the heart and will speak to anyone s need to find their place in this world and the freedom to do so. - Writing WA
Praise for
Black Cockatoo: Reading
Black Cockatoo I am not only proud of these local writers but also so proud to read stories that as a bush community person I can identify with and share with our kids so they can be proud of their lifestyle and their differences. - Tammy, reader review
Praise for
Dirrarn:"Readers will find Mia to be a relatable protagonist this story about stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing a life of possibilities will appeal to upper-primary and lower-secondary students of all reading abilities." - Writing WA, Melinda Tognini & Izabellah, aged 14
Praise for
Dirrarn:"This is another important book. It exposes the challenges these young kids have. The straddling of the two worlds to get a good education. Acceptance by others. The importance of education to make change. Simply written but so much to understand and learn from." -
Good Reading MagazinePraise for
Dirrarn:"
Black Cockatoo won great acclaim and I feel sure that the sequel will too. It is a welcome addition to books for young people about First Nations children and their experiences." - Reading Time CBCA
