Tiwi in Paris by Glen Farmer Illortaminni

I was recently gifted this stunning picture book which has opened the door to a whole new area of reading and learning for me. Whilst knowing of the Tiwi Islands, I am unfamiliar with literature from that region and for me personally this delightful narrative is a wonderful introduction.

Based on a true and unique adventure, Glen Farmer Illortaminni, born in Milikapiti on Melville Island, travelled to Paris to act as an interpreter for his uncle, artist Timothy Cook. Restless during the night, Glen decides to go for a walk and becomes lost. He is missing for a period of time and experiences true homelessness as he wanders from place to place.

Drawing on his limited knowledge of Paris, he tries to navigate the cityscape to find his way back to the hotel. With no understanding of the French language and limited funds, Glen spends time at the airport, walking around Paris, staying with a group of homeless people, boarding the Metro, following a tour guide, is fed in a market, sleeps in a church, and after falling and hurting his head, is taken in by a young French girl and her Papa. He is taken to hospital but leaves once more, meets a Moroccan family who feed and provide shelter for him before he is eventually directed to the Australian Embassy.

Glen’s story is told in a gentle and straightforward manner with descriptions of Parisian landmarks shared throughout including the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triumph, the Metro, a huge church, canal, and markets. The belief Glen has in finding his way safely back to Country comes across strongly during his journey.

The striking double page illustrations consist of black and/or white line drawings on black or white backgrounds with watercolour washes. This appealing naïve style provides the perfect accompaniment to the highly accessible text. Tiwi in Paris will be a fabulous addition to a home, school or public library.

Themes: Tiwi Islands, Paris, Journey, Lost & Found, First Nations Peoples & Culture.

Kathryn Beilby