'A journey through Torres Strait Islander culture and identity, past and present
'"My people are expert navigators, adventurers, innovators, ambassadors, teachers, storytellers, performers, strategists, chefs and advocates for change. The blood runs deep when I reflect on the past and the present and imagine what our future might look like." —Leilani Bin-Juda
'What makes Zenadth Kes/Torres Strait unique? And what is it like to be a Torres Strait Islander in contemporary Australia? Growing Up Torres Strait Islander in Australia, compiled by poet and author Samantha Faulkner, showcases the distinct identity of Torres Strait Islanders through their diverse voices and journeys.
'Hear from emerging and established writers from both today and the recent past, including Eddie Mabo, Thomas Mayo, Aaron Fa'Aoso, Jimi Bani, Ellie Gaffney, Jillian Boyd-Bowie and Lenora Thaker. These and many more storytellers, mentors, traditional owners, doctors and teachers from the Torres Strait share their joy, culture, good eating, lessons learned and love of family, language and Country.
'Discover stories of going dugong hunting and eating mango marinated in soy sauce. The smell of sugar cane and frangipani-scented sea breeze. Family, grandmothers and canoe time. Dancing, singing, weaving hats and making furniture from bamboo. Training as a doctor and advocating for healthcare for the Torres Strait. The loneliness of being caught between two cultures. Mission life, disconnection and being evacuated to the mainland during World War II. "Is that really your mum? Why is she black?". Not being Islander enough. Working hard to reconnect to your roots, and claiming back land and culture.
'A book to treasure and share, this groundbreaking collection provides a unique perspective on the Torres Strait Islander experience.'
Source: Publisher's blurb.
Editor's note:
A Note on Spelling
Some words, place names and expressions have multiple valid spellings. In this book, we have opted to use the spelling that is most authentic to the authors or primary sources.
Jillian Boyd-Bowie presents an autobiographical account of her life, intertwined with poems. Jillian tells her story through her heritage, parents, her childhood, her experiences moving to and living on mainland Australia. She also explores personal growth through parenthood and Christianity.
This work includes four poems.
