"Common Wealth" By Gregg Dreise
A powerful illustrated slam poetry picture book about togetherness and Australian and Indigenous history.
This beautiful 32-page picture book showcases the persuasive and powerful vision of unity from award-winning indigenous creator Gregg Dreise. Passionate, yet peaceful, Common Wealth is a compelling plea for a future of truth, togetherness and respect for Australia’s deep history. All that I’m wishing, Is that you take a moment to listen . . . You see, I’m on a mission, to spread unity – not division. Please note: this book contains confronting images and strong themes.
This book is not suitable for young children
From multi-award-winning author and artist, Gregg Dreise - a proud descendant of the Kamilaroi and Euahlayi people Valuable resource for discussion about the importance of moving forward together as a nation, with truth and respect for Australian history and Traditional Custodians Themes: Indigenous history, Australian history, Australia Day, Australian anthem, unity and community Praise for Common Wealth: In Common Wealth Dreise delivers a heartfelt exploration of Australian history and an examination of our national anthem in the highly readable style of slam poetry verse.
The result is a compelling look at some of our country's darkest chapters, presented in a way that is both accessible and age-appropriate for its intended audience. Although some tragic and distressing themes are explored through the verse and artwork, an overriding sense of optimism shines through as Dreise encourages all Australians to unite, to "work together to create, negotiate and celebrate". He also asserts that our national anthem needs a further "tweak" and calls for changes to the flag and the date of Australia Day. Dreise's vibrant and striking artwork complements the verse and adds to the appeal of the book.
- ISBN: 9781760975166
- ISBN-10: 1760975168
- Audience: Children
- Format: Hardcover
- Language: English
- Number Of Pages: 32
- Published: 1st May 2021
- Publisher: SCHOLASTIC AUSTRALIA PTY LTD
- Country of Publication: AU
- Dimensions (cm): 31 x 24.5 x 1
- Weight (kg): 0.42
- Edition Number: 1
More About The Artist
More About The Artist


About Gregg Dreise
About Gregg Dreise
Gregg Dreise is a celebrated Kamilaroi author, illustrator, musician and teacher, known for his vibrant storytelling and heartfelt messages. A descendant of the Kamilaroi people from south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales, Gregg was born and raised in St George in a large, musical family where sport, poetry and storytelling were part of everyday life.
He is the author and illustrator of beloved picture books including Silly Birds, Kookoo Kookaburra and Mad Magpie, each rooted in First Nations wisdom and teaching important life lessons. His stories blend humour, music and moral guidance - often inspired by proverbs passed down through generations, such as “Kindness is like a boomerang” and “Stay calm like the surface of the water, yet strong like its current.”
Now based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Gregg works as a teacher and brings his books to life for young audiences across the country with his guitar, didgeridoo and boundless energy. A talented visual artist as well, Gregg’s artwork has been exhibited and sold internationally, and he continues to create stories that uplift, educate and inspire children everywhere.
Gregg Dreise is a celebrated Kamilaroi author, illustrator, musician and teacher, known for his vibrant storytelling and heartfelt messages. A descendant of the Kamilaroi people from south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales, Gregg was born and raised in St George in a large, musical family where sport, poetry and storytelling were part of everyday life.
He is the author and illustrator of beloved picture books including Silly Birds, Kookoo Kookaburra and Mad Magpie, each rooted in First Nations wisdom and teaching important life lessons. His stories blend humour, music and moral guidance - often inspired by proverbs passed down through generations, such as “Kindness is like a boomerang” and “Stay calm like the surface of the water, yet strong like its current.”
Now based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Gregg works as a teacher and brings his books to life for young audiences across the country with his guitar, didgeridoo and boundless energy. A talented visual artist as well, Gregg’s artwork has been exhibited and sold internationally, and he continues to create stories that uplift, educate and inspire children everywhere.