Turbo Turtle

By Greg Dreise

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Greg is a descendant of the Goomelroi/Kamilaroi and Euahlayi people of SW Queensland and NW New South Wales. He is the author of many stories and tales inspired by his Indigenous culture, including Circles of Life, Today’s Sun and Hello and Welcome. Greg first learned about Turbo Turtle from his uncle telling him the story when he was young. Here now he is bringing it to a whole new audience.

Set in the Dreamtime, Greg’s retelling is full of emotion and detail complemented by his colourful illustrations. A young lizard loses his tail when caught by an eagle.The mighty Biamme gives him speed and teaches his sacred lore. But the lizard, respectful at first, becomes impatient and offends the Elders. He must be punished but then Biamme takes a hand and the little lizard is changed forever.

For Greg this is a story about losing and then finding your place in the world. He hopes that it will help readers ’embrace who you are…and find inner peace.’ His art process is a mixture of old and new. It begins with usiing dry ochre, then adding layers with modern mediums, giving life to the characters and the story. In this way he morphs two worlds of art to create a modern rendition of an indigenous picture book.

This fourth book in the Scales and Tails series, (others are Fast Fish, Super Snake and Lethal Lizards) is a reminder to always ask permission when entering other Countries to to respect traditional Lore. Aimed at children aged 3+ it is an age-appropriate introduction to First Nations Culture.

Teacher’s Notes

Magabala Books 2025

Greg Dreise