The First Scientists

Book excerpt: WINNER OF THE 2023 NSW PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS ‘PATRICIA WRIGHTSON PRIZE FOR CHILDREN'S LITERATURE’ SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2023 PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS ‘INDIGENOUS WRITERS' PRIZE’ WINNER OF THE 2022 ABIA ‘BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN’ SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2022 CBCA 'EVE POWNALL' AWARD SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2022 QUEENSLAND LITERARY AWARDS 'CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD' The First Scientists is the highly anticipated, illustrated science book from Corey Tutt of DeadlyScience. With kids aged 7 to 12 years in mind, this book will nourish readers’ love of science and develop their respect for Indigenous knowledge at the same time. Have you ever wondered what the stars can tell us? Did you know the seasons can be predicted just by looking at subtle changes in nature? Maybe you have wondered about the origins of glue or if forensic science is possible without a crime scene investigation. Australia's First peoples have the longest continuing culture on Earth and their innovation will amaze you as you leaf through the pages of this book, learning fascinating facts and discovering the answers to life's questions. In consultation with communities, Corey tells us of many deadly feats – from bush medicine to bush trackers – that are today considered 'science', and introduces us to many amazing scientists, both past and present. The breadth of ‘sciences’ is incredible with six main chapters covering astronomy, engineering, forensic science, chemistry, land management and ecology. The first scientists passed on the lessons of the land, sea and sky to the future scientists of today through stories, song and dance, and many of these lessons are now shared in this book. Vibrant illustrations by Blak Douglas bring the subjects to life, so you’ll never think about science as just people in lab coats ever again!