Cirrus@Austlit

'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.

'Mabuiag Island: a remote speck in the sparkling blue of the Torres Strait. Thousands of years of rich history and culture, with just a few hundred people keeping its flame. Now its favourite son is joking in three languages with his grandmother and torturing his son with spontaneous public break-dancing. Charismatic actor Jimi Bani (Mabo, The Straits, Redfern Now) whisks you away to his island for an eveing of music, dance, stand-up and storytelling.

'Four generations of one family take the stage, as Jimi's grandmother, mother, son and brothers help him spin yarns of totems, traditions and childhood memories. The islanders have lived through dark times and light, and this intimate show examines the challenges and tragedies they have faced with hope, honesty and humour, looking towards a bright tomorrow.

'My Name is Jimi is the story of a small community of people clinging tightly to each other, and fighting to protect what really matters, in whirling chaos of a rapidly changing world.' (Production summary)

'This anthology explores the life of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ families, today and in the past. There are stories on ongoing tradition, of loss and sadness, and of new beginnings.' (Source: Publishers website)

'This anthology explores the life of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' families, today and in the past. There are stories on ongoing tradition, of loss and sadness, and of new beginnings. ' (Source: TROVE)