Meet Ezy!
Ezy is a lovable Staffordshire Terrier who’s on a mission to learn while helping children discover the Dharawal language! This charming picture book builds on Jodi Edwards’ previous work (Dharawal: Words, Phrases, and Activities) and serves as a beginner’s guide to the Dharawal language. Each sentence appears first in Dharawal, followed by its English translation, and is paired with engaging illustrations by Amy-Lea Hill Trindall.
For correct pronunciation, readers can access resources at dharawalwords.com.au, making this book useful for learners and teachers alike. With simple storytelling that’s easy to understand, young readers can focus on the language itself without navigating a complex plot. The vibrant, bold illustrations practically jump off the page, making the learning experience even more enjoyable.
Ezy by the River is part of the Dharawal Language Literacy Project.
About the Ezy Books Series
Dr. Jodi Edwards, author of Dharawal Colouring and Counting and Dharawal Words, Phrases, and Activities (illustrated by Merindah Funnell), created this series to support those interested in revitalizing the Dharawal language. The series features 11 primary readers that revolve around Jodi’s Staffordshire Terrier, Ezy, whom she “teaches” in Dharawal throughout the books.
The books are written as if Jodi is teaching Ezy not only his language but also his cultural heritage. Each book incorporates words from Jodi’s previous works into sentences and phrases reflecting aspects of Dharawal culture, such as the sea, birds, food gathering, rivers, colors, and directions. By 2025, the series will expand to cover numbers, the Dharawal alphabet, and camp dogs.
Jodi collaborated with renowned Aboriginal artist Amy-Lea Trindall Hill, who brings these characters to life with a unique First Nations perspective.
Each book is bilingual, featuring sentences in Dharawal followed by English translations. Since exact translations are not always possible, readers may find minor interpretive challenges that add depth to the learning experience.
To support learners, Jodi is also creating videos where she reads the stories with the help of a dog puppet. These videos will be available on dharawalwords.com.au as soon as they’re completed.
About
Dive into the rich tapestry of nature and culture with "Ezy by the River," an enchanting children's book by Jodi Edwards, beautifully illustrated by Amy Lea Hill-Trindall. Join Ezy, the spirited pet dog, and his friend Lenny as they embark on an adventurous exploration of the river, hoping to catch a fish for their meal.
As Ezy and Lenny wander along the riverbanks, they encounter a variety of plants and trees, each with its unique significance to Country and culture. Through their discoveries, they learn how some plants serve as tools while others indicate the presence of fish, illustrating the deep connection between nature and sustainable living. Their journey also uncovers the diverse array of river foods, such as crabs, oysters, and fish, highlighting the plentiful resources that the river provides.
Written in both English and Dharawal, "Ezy by the River" offers a bilingual reading experience, enhancing children's understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal language and cultural practices. As part of a six-book series, this story contributes another engaging and educational adventure in Ezy's world.
Ideal for parents, educators, and young nature enthusiasts, "Ezy by the River" is more than an exploration of the natural world—it's a celebration of cultural heritage, environmental awareness, and friendship. Let Ezy and Lenny guide your child through a meaningful journey that fosters curiosity, respect, and a deep connection to the wonders of nature and culture.
General Information
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ISBN: 9780645774351
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Publisher: Dharawal Publishing
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Publication Date: April 1, 2023
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Product Type: Book
