The Australian Children’s book of the year shortlist 2026 – ‘Spirit of the crocodile’ by Aaron Fa’Aoso and Michelle Scott Tucker with Lyn White.

Growing up I enjoyed reading the books of indigenous authors such as Sally Morgan and Percy Tresize. Book such as the Quinkins were quality works of literature and many have become classics.

They were imaginative, colourful and could be shared with all Australians. Stories such as ‘Tiddalik the frog’, ‘ the rainbow serpent’ and ‘the Quinkins.’ They truly trigerred the readers emotions and made us think. It was not necessary for their authors to promote the stories with bias nor to encourage readers to protest or take part in politics aligning with those presented in their books.

The work of literature stood on its own as a work of art without bias and allowed the reader the freedom to make up their own mind. There was the feeling that the book could be read purely for enjoyment with layers that could be reread later and savoured.

The skill of the author was that there was space left between the story and the reader’s imagination.

These books had style, beauty of word, phrase and intellect, imagery that deeply moved us and dare I say it -many presented moral values for the reader to reflect on that encouraged us to be a better person.

So I was disappointed to pick up the book ‘Spirit of the crocodile’ and see that it was promoted with considerable bias towards climate change emergencies and first nation issues by the authors and editor.

It didn’t live up to the richness of culture and storytelling that I was expecting.

Author Aaron Fa’Aoso in a blatantly biased call to action regarding the book states ;

‘It’s a call to recognise our humanity…. and the urgent realities we face especially around climate change, cultural survival and justice. If you’ve been moved by the story then use that emotion to fuel action. Share the book. Talk about it. Challenge the stereotypes and silences. Educate yourself and others about First nation issues not just during NAIDOC week but every day. Support indigenous lead organisations, especially those fighting for the rights of Torres Strait Islander communities such as the Torres Strait and the Our islands our home campaign which is standing strong in the face of rising seas and climate displacement. You can learn more through platforms like the Australian Institute of Torres Strait Islander studies., the Lowitja Institute and local cultural centres.‘

Can the novel not stand alone on its own without the author issuing a biased call to action?

All in all the novel did seem promising at first but the one sided narrative distracted from the imaginative quality of the story and characters, leaving me underwhelmed.