Welcome to the DEADLY-est Book Club in Oz!

Welcome to the Garrandarang: Aboriginal Book Club!

In a personal effort to learn the traditional language of my nation, the Wiradjuri nation, i often title my products and creations with Wiradjuri words. I find this gives me the chance to say each word a few times and it ingrains it in me. The Book Club was no different and i titled it 'Garrandarang'. In Wiradjuri language, garrandarang means 'book'. You can learn the Wiradjuri language using the Wiradjuri dictionary, which can be found here. There's even an app you can download to your phone or device! Mad hey!

Where did the Aboriginal Book Club come from?

Personally, I love reading. I'm more of a chick-lit type of girl, and some of my favourite authors are Jessica Knoll, Jojo Moyes, Cathy Kelly, Liane Moriarty, Marian Keyes.. the list goes on. (Whilst writing this i have only just realised i don't have any favourite male authors (whoops!) maybe that can be a new year's resolution?!)

A few months ago, i borrowed 'Blood on the Wattle' by Bruce Elder from our local library and thought everyone needs to read this book, i actually thought it should be on the Education curriculum and taught in schools.

That is where the idea for the Aboriginal Book Club began. My hope is that by joining the book club, people can not only make new friends and read some awesome books, but maybe, learn a little something too. Something that unites us. Something that brings empathy. I am a strong believer in education is key, and this is my little way of helping reconciliation, i guess.

I started this blog for people to follow along with the book club and find out what the 'Book of the Month' is. I will upload the discussion questions each month also. Everyone is welcome to join in our discussions either on the blog or social media. All spots in the physical book club were snapped up pretty quick- however, if you would like to read along with us, sign up here for the online book club and you will get updates sent to your inbox.

At the conclusion of the program, all books will be donated to local schools, community centres and libraries. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Family and Community Services for providing funding for my project.

Thanks for reading!