Riding the Black Cockatoo

(Paperback)

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Description

This is the compelling story of how the skull of an Aboriginal man, found on the banks of the Murray River over 40 years ago, came to be returned to his Wamba Wamba descendants. All through his growing-up years, John Danalis's family had an Aboriginal skull on the mantelpiece; yet only as an adult did he ask where it came from and whether it should be restored to its rightful owners. It is a story of awakening, atonement, forgiveness and friendship. Part history, part detective story, part cultural discovery and emotional journey, this is a book for young and old, showing the transformative and healing power of true reconciliation.

Reviews

'Confronting his own prejudices and misconceptions, Danalis' story challenges the reader to do the same. Danalis' father is a collector of Australiana, and years ago had acquired an Aboriginal skull ... Essentially, this is the story of discovering Mary's history, and his eventual return to a sacred burial site ... It is also the story of Danalis' adventures and fascination with learning more of the Aboriginal culture, and the subsequent changes to his life and effects on his family. The new friends he makes, the shattering of many preconceptions and his confrontations with racism. Suitable for teenagers as well as adults, this book flows well with a lot of humour throughout and keeps your interest long after you have finished reading it.' (5 stars) - Bookseller & Publisher

'Riding the Black Cockatoo is aimed at young-adult readers despite its dark and confronting themes: teenagers may be the only generation capable of tearing down white Australia's overwhelming indifference to Aboriginal culture.' - Canberra Times

'In turns joyful, heartbreaking and downright harrowing, Riding the Black Cockatoo will not be an easy story for many Australians.' - Mapgpies

Author Bio

John Danalis is the author and illustrator of three children's titles, Dog 37 being the most recent. Bath Monster and Uncle Lou's Tattoos are his earlier works. He has illustrated numerous other titles including Licking Lizards, Girl in the Cave and Loku and the Shark Attack.