Yarning Strong is a vibrant and purposeful series of novels and anthologies by First Nations authors, created to inspire Years 3–6 students while supporting meaningful classroom learning.
Rich in story, voice and perspective, each text offers teachers and students authentic opportunities to explore First Nations cultures and experiences through high‑quality literature.
The comprehensive and accessible series includes 32 fiction novels (including ten graphic novels) and four themed anthologies, blending fiction and non‑fiction to support English curriculum goals and thoughtful discussion in Years 3–6 classrooms.
Warning to First Nations Peoples
Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this page and the contents in Yarning Strong may include names and images of people now deceased.
Themes:
- Importance of land
- Bullying
- Taking action
- Standing up for your beliefs
Plot Summary
Maree’s nan and pop decide to help with a land rights claim on their traditional land. The whole family goes along - Maree, her brother Justin, her cousin Zeke, Zeke’s mum Evonne, Nan and Pop and the dogs.
The kids enjoy meeting their cousins but, at school, local non-Aboriginal kids assume that the land claim will take their homes away, and blame Maree’s family for causing the ‘problem’.
The school bullies and local thugs threaten to turn violent. The family decides to fight on with ‘the White man’s tools’: words, books, written histories.
Eventually, some townspeople change their views. The land claim is successful.