The legendary Boori Monty Pryor has written an evocative poem about healing humanity through restoring our relationship with the earth. Drawing on thousands of years of First Nations knowledge, this poem speaks of what Pryor calls the ‘eco echoes’ and focuses on the importance of connection and communion between humans and animals, as well as between one another after two hundred years of suffering.

Debut illustrator Rita Sinclair uses a contemporary style that represents humans as spirals of energy, displaying both ancient and modern life in her pictures. She includes many animals, both indigenous and introduced to Australia, showing how they can live together. While the words are suitable for an older picture book readership, the images will also appeal to younger audiences. This is an important work by an Australian legend that celebrates storytelling and bringing people together. Repeated readings will reveal greater depths, and it is recommended as a read-aloud for ages 5+.

Angela Crocombe is the manager of Readings Kids.