Magabala Books, with support from Reconciliation Australia, recently released a new book for young readers titled Always Was, Always Will Be. Written by Aunty Fay Muir and Sue Lawson, this non-fiction book shares important stories of First Nations resistance and activism in Australia, from the 1938 Day of Mourning to the Pilbara Strike in 1946 and more. Aimed at readers aged 10-15, the book helps young people learn about significant events in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories. 

The book was created in partnership with Reconciliation Australia, who approached Magabala with the vision of co-creating a powerful book that would speak to students and teachers. ‘The funding from Reconciliation Australia ensured that Always Was, Always Will Be is the powerful truth-telling tool that it is,’ says Magabala CEO Lilly Brown. ‘We look forward to working with Reconciliation Australia on more stories.’  

This book allows for a learning journey about First Nations justice and rights from the perspective of Boonwurrung Elder Aunty Fay Muir who said, ‘Always Was Always Will Be is an educational book for teachers and students alike. The stories in this book need to be told and are crucial to our First Nations history.’. Aunty Fay Muir shares that these stories are important for students to understand the histories of First Nations peoples. Co-author Sue Lawson hopes the book will help students develop empathy and a deeper understanding of Australia’s histories. 

‘Reconciliation Australia acknowledges Aunty Fay Muir, Sue Lawson, Magabala Books, and all who are deeply involved in raising the next generation of Australians in truth-telling and reconciliation,’ CEO Karen Mundine says. ‘First Nations peoples were the first teachers, educators and leaders on this land, and through these stories in Always Was Always Will Be, our courage, continued connection and care for Country and children, will continue to be a source of inspiration for us all.’ 

Always Was, Always Will Be is a resource for all young Australians, helping both First Nations and non-First Nations readers engage with these powerful stories. The book also provides an opportunity for adults to learn about significant events in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Australia's rich cultural heritage. The book is available for purchase online and at good bookstores.