happy to be me - Aunty Wendy's Mob

The eight happy to be me picture books in this series feature a single song from the happy to be me CD by Aunty Wendy's Mob. The books provide a rich visual representation of the much loved lyrics of the happy to be me songs, incorporating messages of acceptance, cultural identity, connection to the land and sense of belonging.

The authentic artwork by Aboriginal artists features traditional and contemporary styles that range from the Central Desert, Cape York Peninsula and urban New South Wales. The artist's interpretation of the lyrics brings an even deeper meaning to the songs and provides teachers with a visually stunning and engaging resource for the classroom. The series supports and extends the journey of learning for children as they explore, celebrate and develop a deeper understanding of Aboriginal culture.

The happy to be me series was written by Wendy Notley, who is a non-Aboriginal early childhood trained teacher. Wendy is the songwriter and producer of Aunty Wendy's Mob CD happy to be me, the accompanying Teaching Guide and Big Book (all available from Blake Education).

Great care was taken to follow correct protocols regarding Aboriginal cultures in the development of
these resources.

"Wendy, or Aunty Wendy as she is known, is respected throughout NSW communities for
her understanding of Aboriginal culture and the sensitive approach she uses in all of her
community consultations" - NSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early Childhood Sector Advisory Group.

Wendy presents her songs at preschools and schools throughout

Australia

.

The happy to be me series also includes:

happy to be me Audio CD - The songs express the joy and pride that lives strong in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island children and reflect contemporary interests and life experiences that all children can relate to. Twenty-two Aboriginal language groups are included in the lyrics.

happy to be me Teacher Resource Book - which contains illustrated actions for the songs, photocopiable activity
sheets, lyrics and extension ideas. This book has been developed in consultation with Aboriginal
educators and Aboriginal education groups from NSW to enable teachers to implement an
Aboriginal perspective into their classroom programs.

happy to be me Big Book - which provides step-by-step dance actions for ten of the songs on the happy to be me CD. The simple illustrations help children perform the actions to accompany each of the ten songs. The big book also contains a large colourful map of Aboriginal Australia to support the activities in the Teacher Resource Book.