Book of the Month for May

Australia was and always will be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander land. 

This is why Australia has three flags. 

The Aboriginal flag, the Torres Strait Islander flag and the Australian flag.  

This month Australia celebrates Torres Strait Islander Flag Day! 

Flag Day is a day to celebrate the resilience, cultural heritage and contributions of Torres Strait Islander people and, what better way to celebrate with your little ones than by enjoying a wonderful book together! 

Our Flag, Our Story - The Torres Strait Islander Flag written by Bernard Namok Jnr and Thomas Mayo, illustrated by Tori-Jay Mordey and published by Magabala Books (2024) is a beautiful new picture book about the history and importance of the Torres Strait Islander flag. 

The Torres Strait Islander flag was designed by the late Bernard Namok from Thursday Island. It was the winning entry in a design competition that was held as part of a cultural revival workshop organised by the Islands Coordinating Council in January, 1992. 

The flag was created as a symbol of unity and identity for Torres Strait Islander peoples. The cultures and traditions of Torres Strait Islanders are strongly connected to the land, sea and sky — elements which are represented in the flag. 

Our Flag, Our Story is written by Bernard’s son, Bernard Namok Jnr – who was only a boy when his father designed the flag - and teaches children about the history and meaning of Torres Strait Islander flag using straightforward language and bold, vibrant digital illustrations.  

For more information about how you can support your child’s health and wellbeing, through reading and to keep up with all the exciting news about First 5 Forever, subscribe to our free monthly tips or visit a First 5 Forever session at your local library. And remember, you’re never too young to be a member of the library – you can join your little one up from birth and borrow Our Flag, Our Story The Torres Strait Islander Flag written by Bernard Namok Jnr and Thomas Mayo and illustrated by Tori-Jay Mordey to read and enjoy together at home.    

Other books to read to your child:  

The Land Recalls You by Kirli Saunders and illustrated by David Cragg and Noni Cragg (2024) 

Backyard Footy by Carl Merrison and illustrated by Samantha Campbell (2024)