When the World Was Soft by Juluwarlu Group Aboriginal Corporation. Illustrated by Alex Mankiewicz. Allen & Unwin 2024. Soft cover large graphic novel. RRP $34.99 ISBN 9781761180651
Reviewed by Debra Williams
This is an interesting
approach to relating Indigenous folklore, involving the Yindjibarndi people’s
Creation-times stories. From a project begun in 1998, stories were collected
and recorded to pass on to children and grandchildren. The Juluwarlu Group
Aboriginal Corporation is based in WA’s Pilbara region, and their purpose is to
collect and promote knowledge of Yindjibarndi culture. These ancient stories
have now been compiled and released into a beautiful book which combines storytelling
with artwork from the various group members: 11 women in all. Each artist is
featured with a short bio towards the back of the book, as well as specific
information about the group and the illustrator. Combined with comic-style illustrations to
bring the tales to life, it is an innovative way to present the culture not
only to the families and communities of the Yindjibarndi people, but also to
wider readerships. Allen & Unwin describe it as a ground-breaking graphic
novel in an immediate and engaging way for a contemporary audience.
This is categorized as a
children’s graphic novel and should suit those aged 10+ years. However, some of
the subject matter may be a little graphic for sensitive readers. Some adult guidance may be required for
certain stories.
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