"Sounds All Around Us All Around Us" By Ryhia Dank
Sounds All Around Us is a beautiful introduction to sensory learning through the vibrant lens of Aboriginal art and culture. Created by Gudanji/Wakaja artist Ryhia Dank, this board book invites children to explore the rich soundscape of Australia—rustling leaves, chirping birds, crunching footsteps—all portrayed through powerful storytelling and intricate, symbolic illustrations.
Part of the All Around Us series, the book pairs simple narrative with visual storytelling to introduce young readers to the wonders of sound, encouraging mindfulness and a deep connection with the world around them. Dank’s signature style—known as “Nardurna,” meaning “woman”—is deeply rooted in her ancestral stories and connection to land and water.
This is an ideal book for babies and toddlers, offering sensory engagement and cultural education in equal measure. It's a wonderful resource for early childhood classrooms and home libraries alike.
- ISBN: 9781761210822
- ISBN-10: 1761210823
- Series: All Around Us
- Audience: Children
- For Ages: 2+ years old
- Format: Board Book
- Language: English
- Number Of Pages: 24
- Published: 3rd August 2022
- Publisher: Hardie Grant Children's Publishing
- Dimensions (cm): 1.4 x 22.4 x 22.4
- Weight (kg): 0.383
- Edition Number: 1
More About The Artist
More About The Artist


About Ryhia Dank
About Ryhia Dank
Ryhia Dank is a Gudanji/Wakaja artist and storyteller who grew up in the remote Northern Territory and now lives in contemporary urban Australia. Her unique visual language—what she calls “storywork”—draws on traditional pattern and design to share culture, memory, and identity. Her practice is named Nardurna, a Gudanji word meaning “woman,” and is rooted in a Dreaming story of three women who came from the ocean to shape the hills and freshwater Country near Ngukurr.
Dank’s work blends traditional and modern perspectives, sharing the stories of her people with a bold, contemporary voice. She is passionate about creating accessible pathways for cultural knowledge, especially for children, making her board books not only visually stunning but culturally vital.
Ryhia Dank is a Gudanji/Wakaja artist and storyteller who grew up in the remote Northern Territory and now lives in contemporary urban Australia. Her unique visual language—what she calls “storywork”—draws on traditional pattern and design to share culture, memory, and identity. Her practice is named Nardurna, a Gudanji word meaning “woman,” and is rooted in a Dreaming story of three women who came from the ocean to shape the hills and freshwater Country near Ngukurr.
Dank’s work blends traditional and modern perspectives, sharing the stories of her people with a bold, contemporary voice. She is passionate about creating accessible pathways for cultural knowledge, especially for children, making her board books not only visually stunning but culturally vital.