Learning Country

A First Nations Journey Around Australia’s Traditional Place Names

by Ryhia Dank

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Ryhia Dank is a Gudanji/Wakaja woman who grew up in a remote community in the Gulf of Carpentaria. She got to know her Country though the stories her family told, and through walking in the places and footprints her family has travelled since the beginning. Her painting is storywork, and tells stories through pattern and design.

This book is trek through Country, discovering the name and meaning of the many places and animals that can be explored and enjoyed.

Tarndanya is where the rakali burrow. They hunt for yabbies at night, where Tjilbruke and the freshwater still live – they all take care of each other. I learned to pay attention.

The reader will discover much if they pay attention and explore the double page spreads, each devoted to a different scene and gloriously illustrated in bold lines and sumptuous colour. The short descriptive text describes a journey and also recounts some life lessons learned along the way: I learned to watch, I learned joy, I learned to walk soft.

Rhyia aptly concludes with ‘And I remembered the stories that told me how to learn our Country’. Brimful of knowledge and delight in the places that make Australia special, the sensitive text and art combine to create a gentle lesson in understanding, appreciating and learning Country.

 A beautiful book for everyone to enjoy.  .

HarperCollins AU 2025

Ryhia Dank