Author(s): Amy McQuire

Australia

Day Break is the story of a family making their way back to Country on January 26. We see the strength they draw from being together, and from sharing stories as they move through a shifting landscape. The story refocuses the narratives around ‘Australia Day’ on Indigenous survival and resistance, and in doing so honours the past while looking to the future. Confronting yet truthful, painful yet full of hope, Day Break is a crucial story that will open up a conversation on truth-telling for the next generation.

Matilda Bookshop Review

This picture book, written by Darumbal and South Sea Islander woman Amy McQuire, is a perfect starting point for conversations about January 26 in your home. Day Break tells the story of a family returning to Country and shifts narratives around ‘Australia Day’ to focus on Indigenous survival and resistance. The book is both confronting and truthful, whilst also offering a message of hope for the future. Illustrations by Matt Chun complement the story and demonstrate the juxtaposition between colonialism and Country. Kasey