Hello, Bunji,' said the bird. 'My name is Wylla. I know you're feeling upset and a little lost. Come with me, I have something to show you.'
When Bunji runs away from school, he doesn't realise that a rainbow lorikeet is about to take him on an incredible adventure. As he soars over Nitmiluk Gorge and feels the rhythms of the environment supporting him, Bunji discovers that he can be brave if he shows his true colours with pride.
Brave Like Bunji is a story written from the heart by Wiradjuri man Jake Gablonski, beautifully illustrated by acclaimed Dagoman artist Samantha Campbell and set on the traditional lands of the Jawoyn, Dagoman and Wardaman people of the Katherine region of northern Australia.
Jake Gablonski is a Wiradjuri man and media personality who grew up in Katherine in the Northern Territory. He is a storyteller at heart with a personal passion for mental health, wellbeing, education and strengths-based community care. Jake often shares his voice as someone who belongs to both the First Nations and Rainbow communities, including those who sit at the intersection of both. His storytelling is shaped by lived experience, culture and a deep care for the power of feeling visible, strong and truly empowered. www.jakegablonski.com
Samantha Campbell is a contemporary artist and award-winning illustrator. She is descended from the Dagoman people and lives in Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with her family. She draws on inspiration from her childhood experiences living in remote Aboriginal communities, and finds enjoyment illustrating nature and people in a variety of mediums. www.samanthacampbell.com.au
Published: 2nd June 2026
Format: Hardcover
Language: English
Number of Pages: 24
Audience: Children
For Ages: 4 - 8 years old