Yarning Strong The Chainsaw File

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.

Tyrone’s history teacher thinks he’s a stirrer, always picking fights about Aboriginal history—and the kid doesn’t even look Aboriginal! Tyrone’s sticking up for Aboriginal rights upsets his anxious mum though. When Tyrone is suspended (again) his dad takes him along to a building site, where to Tyrone’s disgust his dad does nothing when his workmates say ‘Abos’. Eventually, Tyrone’s quick thinking saves one of the workmate’s lives. He is the town hero. Tyrone learns why his mother is so fearful, and Tyrone realises he needn’t care about his skin colour—it’s what’s in his veins and heart that counts.

The Chainsaw File 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 skin colour • Importance of standing up for yourself and your people