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The Little Red Yellow Black Book

A new book offers a new understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australia.

There is so much to know and learn about Indigenous Australia. But for someone who wants to get to grips with the whole story, where do you start? Right here, with The Little Red Yellow Black Book.

The Little Red Yellow Black Book is the first wide-ranging introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture. It doesn’t shy away from the more unpleasant parts of shared Australian history, and it focuses on Indigenous lives and beliefs, from an Indigenous perspective.

The book is written in an engaging, easy-to-read style that provides clear and simple explanations of subjects many non-Indigenous Australians might not understand, such as the importance of country and land rights.

“If you weren’t taught about Indigenous Australians at school, or you’re confused by the many negative stories in the media, then The Little Red Yellow Black Book is the perfect starting point to learn more,” says Rhonda Black, Director of Aboriginal Studies Press, who published the book.

From the Dreaming to the present day, The Little Red Yellow Black Book includes stories by and about our first Australians form Tasmanian to the Torres Strait, from the west coast to the east.

“I think some people will be surprised at how varied and lively our Indigenous cultures are,” says Steve Larkin, CEO of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) which co-authored the book with Bruce Pascoe.

“The Little Red Yellow Black Book offers a starting point for understanding. From understanding can come respect. From both understanding and respect, we can begin to forge a reconciliation.”

The Little Red Yellow Black Book is available from Aboriginal Studies Press. RRP $14.95. For more information head to www.aiatsis.gov.au

[Image credits: Cover image: courtesy Aboriginal Studies Press, AIATSIS; Family and Elders image: photo by Lyndon Mechielsen, 10368874, © Newspix, News Ltd, 3rd Party Managed Reproduction & Supply Rights; Our Flags image: courtesy H Chatfield, photo K Styche, AIATSIS.]

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