Afloat

Roam the water with me. We are here to learn. Here to spin wisdom, to grow … From award-winning Gunai author Kirli Saunders and seven-time CBCA-winner Freya Blackwood comes Afloat , a story told in a time of climate crisis. Against a backdrop of a changed environment, an Elder leads a child along the waterways, sharing her People’s knowledge and gathering community along the way. Afloat is an uplifting and inspiring picture book that uses the practice of weaving as a powerful metaphor for the honouring and teaching of First Nations wisdom, and the coming together of all people to survive, thrive and create a more hopeful future. Praise for Afloat: ‘Hope is the ultimate takeaway from this moving story about community, First Nations wisdom and climate change.’ The Guardian ‘[Afloat] delves into themes of creating a future of balance and community with the natural world, while a slow, rhythmic tone and loose-lined illustrations emphasize saving what’s most important’ Publishers Weekly , starred review ‘Saunders (Gunai) uses weaving as a metaphor for community-building, demonstrating that Indigenous knowledge can be a source of connection and power as we work toward creating a better world. Blackwood’s art underscores hope and opportunities to help cultivate the land.’ Kirkus Reviews