Yarning Strong The Naming of Yellow Hair

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.

Yarwan’s father is wise, and he gives Yarwan good advice when her non-Aboriginal friend teases her for being a blond Aboriginal. Yarwan’s father knows a lot about the history of his people, and he believes it is important to share this with his children. He tells them about their totems, and Yarwan and her brother, Tarn, look forward to Totem Naming Day—when they will learn what their own totems are. When an uncle dies, Yarwan’s father is prompted to tell his children about how their ancestors died, and his intention to build memorials to show his respect for them. Yarwan appreciates how seriously her father takes his responsibility to pass on his knowledge to future generations. As she says at the end of the story, ‘… this is forever business’.

The Naming of Yellow Hair 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: It is important to know your family history • Aboriginality cannot be judged by skin colour