Yarning Strong Just the Skin You're Livin' In

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.

Tahnee lives with her extended family in a small town. She wins a scholarship to a boarding school in the city. She fits into her new school until her friends learn that she is Aboriginal. Some girls, including her room-mate Letta, do not believe her as they think she is too fair-skinned to be Aboriginal. Tahnee overhears them saying she must get lots of special benefits. Tahnee is hurt and doesn’t want to return to school after the holidays. Her grandmother reminds her that skin colour is not important to her Aboriginal identity, and Tahnee returns to school. Eventually Letta apologises and they become friends again.

Just the Skin You're Livin' In 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: Knowing who you are • Refusing to be defined by others • Racism • The importance of family