Jared M Field (text) and Jeremy Worrall (illustrator), Etta and the Shadow Taboo, Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing, June 2023, 32 pp., RRP $27.99 (hbk), ISBN 9781760509798
This magnificently illustrated story highlights the regard we should show others in terms of the respect we hold for their personal space.
Many little sisters can relate to Etta who is sad after a telling off from an older sister. The cause of the conflict was Etta’s disregard for her sister’s shadow. As a consequence, the spirit tree causes Etta to be turned into a shadow and she’ll be that way forever if she doesn’t make amends. Etta learns quickly that she must always say:
Where is theirs?
And where is mine?
To hurt a shadow
Is surely a crime
Before the story begins the author has provided a preamble which explains the tradition of shadow avoidance among Gamilaraay people. The tradition “invites young ones to not just be aware of their bodies, but aware of their bodies in context.” That their respect of others includes the space that person inhabits. I found this super helpful, as I’m sure other adult readers will.
I have to make special mention of the illustrations. I found them to be extraordinary. There is a lot of detailed line work that evokes depth and connection. I found myself remined of fingerprints, which made me think of individuality and identity. The colours are earthy, yet bright. Altogether, I’m sure these images will keep the attention of young readers. It’s no surprise it was shortlisted for the 2024 CBCA New Illustrator Award.
Aimed at children 4-7 years of age, this story has a moral that clever young ones will be able to extrapolate: other people’s bodies, belongings and space ought to be respected. This would be an excellent resource excellent for teachers and parents who are still having to remind kids to “stay in the lane” (that might be a direct quote from me.) It is laying the foundation for more serious conversations about the way adults are expected to treat each other, in person and online.
Reviewed by Cherie Bell
