Description

Title: Taruru
Author/Publisher: A P Thomas & C G Brandenstein (Rigby, Australia)
Publication Year: 1974
Format: Hardcover with Dust Jacket

Synopsys: "Taruru" by C G Brandenstein and A P Thomas is a comprehensive literary work that aggregates and portrays indigenous Australian dreamtime stories. In essence, the book explores and documents the ancient narratives of the Njangumarda-speaking people who inhabit the Hamersley Range region in Western Australia. Brandenstein and Thomas skillfully weave together oral histories and mythology, offering intriguing accounts of the creation of entities, the illustrious exploits of ancestral beings, social orders, and attitudes towards the environment. This makes 'Taruru' a potent source of Aboriginal cultural heritage. The book is instrumental in preserving and perpetuating the traditional stories of Aboriginal Australia, constituting an invaluable resource for anthropologists, historians, and those interested in indigenous cultures.

Synopsis

‘Taruru’ presents a significant collection of Indigenous Australian Dreamtime narratives, meticulously compiled by A P Thomas and C G Brandenstein. Published in 1974 by the prominent Australian publisher Rigby, this hardcover volume stands as a crucial early work in the documentation of Aboriginal folklore.

The book primarily focuses on the rich oral traditions and mythology of the Njangumarda-speaking people, whose ancestral lands encompass the Hamersley Range region of Western Australia. As a work of non-fiction, it diligently records these ancient stories, offering invaluable insight into their cultural significance and spiritual depth.

• Njangumarda Dreamtime Narratives: At its heart, 'Taruru' is a dedicated compilation of the foundational myths and legends of the Njangumarda people. It provides a direct window into their worldview, cosmology, and the spiritual beings that shape their understanding of the land.
• Preserving Oral Traditions: This volume serves as a vital ethnographic record, capturing oral histories that might otherwise have been lost. The authors’ efforts to transcribe and present these narratives contribute significantly to the preservation of Indigenous Australian cultural heritage for future generations.

As a vintage publication from the mid-1970s, 'Taruru' remains a highly sought-after work for collectors of Australian folklore, ethnography, and Indigenous studies. Its enduring value lies in its pioneering role in making these important Dreamtime stories accessible, solidifying its place as a cornerstone text in the field.

Condition

This item has been professionally inspected and is in Acceptable condition. Please refer to the photographs for detailed visual assessment.

Specifications