Afloat

Roam the water with me. We are here to learn. 
Here to spin wisdom, to grow …

From award-winning Gunai author Kirli Saunders and seven-time CBCA-winner Freya Blackwood comes Afloat, a story told in a time of climate crisis. Against a backdrop of a changed environment, an Elder leads a child along the waterways, sharing her People's knowledge and gathering community along the way.

Afloat is an uplifting and inspiring picture book that uses the practice of weaving as a powerful metaphor for the honouring and teaching of First Nations wisdom, and the coming together of all people to survive, thrive and create a more hopeful future.

Acclaim for Afloat:

Honour Book, 2025 Children's Book Council of Australia Awards, Picture Book

Winner, 2025 Wilderness Society Environment Awards for Children's Literature, Picture Fiction

Shortlisted, 2025 Victorian Premier's Literary Awards, Indigenous Writing Prize

‘Hope is the ultimate takeaway from this moving story about community, First Nations wisdom and climate change.’ The Guardian

‘[Afloat] delves into themes of creating a future of balance and community with the natural world, while a slow, rhythmic tone and loose-lined illustrations emphasize saving what’s most important’ Publishers Weekly, starred review 

‘Saunders (Gunai) uses weaving as a metaphor for community-building, demonstrating that Indigenous knowledge can be a source of connection and power as we work toward creating a better world. Blackwood’s art underscores hope and opportunities to help cultivate the land.’ Kirkus Reviews