Yarning Strong Crossroads

Warning to First Nations Peoples: Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that the contents in Yarning Strong may include names and images of people now deceased.

Sophie and Simon are 13-year-old twins. Sick of his school friends’ racist teasing, Simon starts hanging around with older boys after school and is caught shoplifting. In court, Simon gets off with a warning, but Kate, his Aboriginal lawyer, warns him he might not be so lucky next time. Simon and Sophie visit their nan, who tells them a Dreaming story that inspires Sophie to look after Simon. Back home, Simon joins the shoplifting gang again. Sophie takes him to see Kate, who tells them her cousin’s story: from peer pressure to juvenile detention to a life of crime to death in custody. Which path will Simon choose?

Crossroads is part of the Yarning Strong series, a vibrant and purposeful series of novels and anthologies by First Nations authors, created to inspire Years 3–6 students while supporting meaningful classroom learning. Rich in story, voice and perspective, each text offers teachers and students authentic opportunities to explore First Nations cultures and experiences through high‑quality literature.

Themes: Deaths in custody • Family and trust • Peer group pressure • Racism • Responsibility of self and others