Common Wealth

by Gregg Dreise

This beautiful 32-page picture book showcases the persuasive and powerful vision of unity from award-winning indigenous creator Gregg Dreise. Passionate, yet peaceful, Common Wealth is a compelling plea for a future of truth, togetherness and respect for Australia’s deep history. All that I’m wishing, Is that you take a moment to listen . . . You see, I’m on a mission, to spread unity – not division. Praise for Common Wealth : In Common Wealth Dreise delivers a heartfelt exploration of Australian history and an examination of our national anthem in the highly readable style of slam poetry verse. The result is a compelling look at some of our country's darkest chapters, presented in a way that is both accessible and age-appropriate for its intended audience. Although some tragic and distressing themes are explored through the verse and artwork, an overriding sense of optimism shines through as Dreise encourages all Australians to unite, to "work together to create, negotiate and celebrate". He also asserts that our national anthem needs a further "tweak" and calls for changes to the flag and the date of Australia Day. Dreise's vibrant and striking artwork complements the verse and adds to the appeal of the book. Common Wealth is a highly recommended addition to any classroom, as both a tool for examining Australian history and as a call for change. Books + Publishing

Genres: Picture Books, Poetry, Indigenous, Nonfiction, Australia

Hardcover

Published June 3, 2021

Reviews

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly amazing read.
Borrowed from the library, the catalogue listing in new titles sounded like one I must read. Listed as JF in my library. I am going to tell them it needs a broader catalogue classification- this is amazing spoken word on a truly VITAL subject for our country if we are to grow up as a nation.
Yes it is illustrated, and stunningly beautiful illustrations on each and every page with subtext embedded into the images.
Yes, it has a format like many a child illustrated story.
But it truly is written as a picture book for the “older reader” as the frontispiece says.
Yes it is certainly a concept for all ages but I know an entire population who could read this learn from I. I o open dialogues or change, (and love it), but not everyone understands the joy of indulgence with picture books and young fiction so I hope I can encourage the library to extend the listings.
Now to check out the authors other titles with my grandchild in mind. And also
Please please please Gregg Dreise can you publish a spoken word of the Slam Poetry to hear and feel and share.
I LOVED IT.

[Laura Farrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true telling of how White Australians came to Australia, and the feelings that this brought to the indigenous Australians who already inhabited the country. The pictures are stunning, and the story is told in verse. It is catalogued in our non-fiction collection as it is a true poem, however it is very suitable to read to a primary school class for indigenous week or Naidoc week.
5 stars.

[Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is tagged as "a slam poetry persuasive" and it certainly hits the persuasive mark. This is a powerful, personal exploration of why some of our national symbols (anthem, flag and date) are hurtful for our indigenous people and a wider call for unity and respect. The artwork is striking, generally beautiful except where it is meant to be bleak. This would make a great text to share with upper primary students and to use as a starting point for discussion.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

The intricacy and freshness of these illustrations are breath-taking. The words, slam poetry, are powerful and heartfelt. Gregg's talent and wisdom shines through. He even has a suggested design for a more inclusive Australian flag. Go Gregg!
'Grieve Together. Believe Together. Achieve Together. Receive Together'.

[Emma · Rating 5 out of 5]

A "slam poetry persuasive", this book uses both words and stunning images to great effect. Impactful and important.

[Therese · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book needs to be read and talked about. It’s content requires reading by adults and young adults to begin dialogue.

[Norah Colvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A powerful picture book that seeks to unite rather than divide, and urges all Australians to listen and to share in our common wealth. Recommended for all Australians.

[Carmel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exceptional picture book and needs to be read by all Australians - regardless of age. It could be performed at a Reconciliation Week School Assembly. The illustrations integrate beautifully with the slam poetry (text). While some of the images are confronting, they need to be seen and acknowledged if we as a country are to come to terms with our past. There is also so much love and optimism in the text. Highly recommended!
If only the publisher had spent more dollars and used a higher quality printing.

[Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked all elements of this book. The rap-like rhyme, the wonderful illustrations, and the compelling messages hidden in the art. A picture book for older audiences.

[Bec · Rating 5 out of 5]

The important message in this book flows beautifully in the poetry form it is written with eye-catching illustrations. This should be studied at all schools.