AustLit

‘I’m no good at dot painting. I tried my best in dance until the pressure on my thighs became too much – I was always more of a ‘lounging kangaroo’ myself. Even though I write with honesty and my story is my own genuine account of growing up as an Aboriginal person, I still question whether what I say will resonate with anyone. Whether this account is specific to me and me alone, and my rollercoaster of identity is really a one-person ride. I have never been relegated to the back of a bus. I have never been denied the right to vote in my lifetime. I have grown up with my family, in our own home, with the blood of both my parents in my veins. My struggle comes in different forms, and these small battles feel like mountains some days. I guess that is what this book is about, right? I hope I can contribute in some way. So here goes: my name is Shahni and I am a proud Jirrinja woman.’ (Introduction)