Yarning Strong Odd One Out

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.

When Buddy has to give a talk at school about what his family like doing together, he takes in a photo of his family at an NRL All Stars game. A bullying classmate tells Buddy that he must be adopted because he looks different from the rest of his family. Buddy becomes very worried that this might be true because he has red hair and does not like football much. His nan visits and tells him about her father, who did not like sport either. When Nan shows Buddy a photo of his great-grandfather, he knows that he belongs to his family.

Odd One Out 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: Aboriginality cannot be judged by appearance • Knowing your family heritage