NAIDOC Week through picture books with author Sue Lawson (Early Stage 1, Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3)

ACTIVITY OUTLINE:

Students will have the opportunity to hear Sue read from her highly acclaimed and inclusive picture books Respect, written with Boonwurrung Elder, Aunty Fay Muir, as well as An Important Message from Mr Beakywritten with Cassie Leatham and Mr Beaky. They will gain an insight into Sue’s writing process, being a published author and a sneak peek at her new book!

Respect is part of the ‘Our Place’ series, published by Magabala Books. This series welcomes and introduces children to the rich and important elements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Each book in the series is illustrated by a different First Nation’s artist from across the nation. An Important Message from Mr Beaky explores what it means to be an Aboriginal person in Australia.

As part of this experience the Museum of Australian Democracy education team explore the power of using craft to share messages and create positive change with students.

SPECIAL GUESTS:

Award-winning author Sue Lawson is passionate about encouraging young people’s love of writing and reading.

Her books, including Pan’s Whisper and Freedom Ride, are recognized for the sensitive way they explore the exciting and heartbreaking complexities of adolescence.

Sue also writes with Boonwurrung Elder, Aunty Fay Muir, creating books that explore and celebrate Australia’s First Nations’ people and their rich culture and history. Aunty Fay and Sue’s books include Nganga and Respect.

A former teacher and journalist, Sue spent nearly 20 years in radio, working for both ABC and commercial stations. She currently writes full-time, runs workshops, author talks and facilitates literary interviews and festivals.

In her spare time, she hangs out at stationery stores, follows AFL footy and listens to music.