First nations stories

Book review: The Kangaroo and the Porpoise

Posted on June 29, 2026May 25, 2026 by Alphabet Soup

The cover of a children's book: The Kangaroo and the Porpoise

The Kangaroo and the Porpoise, told by Agnes Lippo, compiled by Pamela Lofts, illustrations adapted from paintings of the story done by children at Belyuen School in the Northern Territory, Scholastic Press, ISBN 9781865046297

REVIEWED BY EVA, 8, NSW

This is a beautiful, Australian First Nations story from The Dreaming. It’s told by Agnes Lippo and compiled by Pamela Lofts.

This is a story about how the porpoise came to live in the sea. I really liked this book because it talks about lots of unique, cute creatures and what they eat.

I also liked how the kangaroo is trustable at the start and then changes at the end.

I disliked how the story was a bit challenging sometimes, because I don’t like fighting among characters.

This book made me feel happy and sad at the same time! This is a good book for ages 3 to 8. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

We’re pleased to be sharing a series of book reviews by Petersham Public School students, NSW. This is Eva’s first book review for Alphabet Soup. To send us YOUR book review, read our submission guidelines. Happy reading!

Book review: How the Birds got their Colours

Posted on June 26, 2026May 25, 2026 by Alphabet Soup

How the Birds got their Colours, told by Mary Albert, compiled by Pamela Lofts, illustrations adapted from paintings of the story by Aboriginal children living in Broome, Western Australia. Scholastic Press, ISBN 978-1865046242

REVIEWED BY ISLA, 7, NSW

The cover of a picture book: How the Birds got their Colours.

How the Birds got their Colours is a lovely book told by Mary Albert, compiled by Pamela Lofts.

This is an Australian First Nations story from The Dreaming. It tells the story of how the birds in the beginning had no colour. They were all black. Then one day a little dove changed everything forever.

I loved this book because there’s a happy ending. It made me feel inspired with the marvellous colourful illustrations.

I give this book five out of five stars and recommend it for all ages, but especially for ages 4 to 8.

We’re pleased to be sharing a series of book reviews by Petersham Public School students, NSW. This is Isla’s first book review for Alphabet Soup. To send us YOUR book review, read our submission guidelines. Happy reading!

Book reviews by Aashi, Book reviews by kids

Book review: Wongutha Tales

Posted on October 4, 2024October 16, 2024 by Alphabet Soup

Wongutha Tales: Bawoo Stories & Badudu Stories by May L. O’Brien, Fremantle Press, ISBN 9781760993412.

REVIEWED BY AASHI, 10, VIC

Aashi received a review copy of this book.

Wongutha Tales are stories from May L. O’Brien’s childhood and Dreamtime stories.

My favourite Bawoo story was ‘Why Emus Can’t Fly’. ‘Why Emus Can’t Fly’ is about the emus who would always brag about how they flew but when the other animals got annoyed they lost their power of flight. The moral of the story was: don’t brag, instead treasure and be humble with your gift and you will keep that gift. I enjoyed reading Wongutha Tales and learning about the Dreamtime stories. The message of the ‘Why Emus Can’t Fly’ story is so important and teaches a valuable lesson about humility and gratitude. I think it’s a great reminder to appreciate our talents and not boast about them.

It’s amazing how stories like these can contain such timeless knowledge. Wongutha Tales provides a unique perspective on life and nature, and the Dreamtime stories are deeply rooted in Aboriginal culture. I believe learning from different cultures and their teachings is crucial to broadening our understanding of the world. These stories have certainly left a lasting impression on me, and I look forward to exploring more indigenous literature.

I rate this book 5 stars out of 5 as it was a fascinating read. I enjoyed learning about the stories. I found the storytelling to be captivating and engaging. The way May L. O’Brien shared her childhood experiences and the Dreamtime stories was truly amazing. I was drawn into the world of Wongutha Tales and felt like I was alongside the characters as the tales unfolded.

Overall, this was not just an entertaining read, but also a fascinating one. It’s a book that I would highly recommend to anyone interested in Indigenous culture, storytelling, and valuable life lessons intertwined in captivating narratives.

Take a sneak peek inside Wongutha Tales.

Download a Wongutha Words activity sheet.

Download the Teachers’ Notes.

Aashi is a regular book reviewer for Alphabet Soup. You can read more of her book reviews here. To send us YOUR book review, read our submission guidelines. Happy reading!