Yarning Strong That's What Families Are For

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.

Yindi and Billum have to stay with their aunt’s family in the city while their mother, Lily, is in hospital. Cousin Riley is happy to have Billum share his room, but his older sister, Regan, makes a big fuss about sharing with Yindi. The boys, Riley and Billum, have fun together, but the girls, Regan and Yindi, do not. Regan leaves Yindi alone and complains to her friends about her. Yindi feels very lonely and worried about her mother, so she decides to run away to the hospital. The family search for her late into the night, and Regan blames herself for Yindi’s leaving. When Yindi is found, Regan apologises for her thoughtless behaviour, and the girls become friends.

That's What Families Are For 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: Importance of family bonds • Not all family members are the same