Raymaŋgirrbuy dhäwu When I was a little girl

By Kylie Gatjawarrawuy Mununggurr

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Here is a beautifully told story of an idyllic childhood presented in two languages, Djambarrpuyŋu and English, making it one of a small but growing collection of dual language resources available to children, parents and teachers today.

Kylie says:’I learnt to draw at school. When I stayed out bush I sat with my grandmother and watched her paint. I used to get boxes and paint on them. She painted with ochres and glue. Later she showed me how to make the marawat (hair) brush to do the fine line work. Since then I have learnt how to use acrylics as well. Painting keeps me busy and relaxed. I like to paint all the animals and the country.’

 

She was born in Darwin but when a school opened on her grandmother’s country Raymaŋgirr Kylie went to school there. The language of Raymaŋgirr is Marraŋu but this story is told in Djambarrpuyŋu because everyone understands Djambarrpuyŋu in North-east Arnhem Land, although there are many other languages.

The story starts with a map showing the location of Raymaŋgirr, nestled in amongst many other language groups in North-East Arnhem Land.  This is my story, she says. We see how she watches her grandmother make paint and brushes. Now she an artist and painter herself as we see in this carefully nuanced pictue book. We learn how they used to collect honey, and how during ceremony time they paint the bush honey design on their bodies. They fish in the mangroves, sometimes they go night fishing when the moon is full.

Filled with joyous and expressive images in deep colours that echo Country each page is a delight to explore. Children will enjoy this sensitive reflection on a special childhood.

Includes a useful pronunciation guide in the book and online.

Magabala Books 2025