Cockatoo

This fascinating book is the story of Roy McIvor, a noted artist of the aboriginal people of Australia. Told in his own words, Cockatoo recounts the unexplained removal of his Guugu Yimithirr people from their homeland during World War II,  the years of exile during which almost a third of their number perished,  and their eventual return to rebuild their community.

The book is richly illustrated with Roy McIvor's paintings and is full of stories of everyday life as well as the legends and lore of his people.

 Reader Wil  in the Netherlands sent me this book, saying that she thought I'd like it because of my interest in indigenous peoples.  Indeed, I'm reminded of the shameful treatment of the Native Americans -- especially the Removal of the Cherokees and the Trail of Tears.  

(Reader Wil's daughter, who lives in Australia, was instrumental in the making of this book.  It was she who interviewed Mr. McIvor (the uncle of her ex-husband) and wrote down his stories with such loving care.)

As Martin H. commented yesterday, "This is really what blogging should always aim to do...lead us by the hand into a different world. Wonderful!"

Wonderful, indeed! Thank you, Reader Wil, for leading me into Roy McIvor's world!