Crowds booked it to the ABC Radio studio in Perth for the Big Day of Books event, where Embrace Co-Director Professor Helen Milroy AM was one of the presenters on the day.
Penned as a live-literary show, attendees had the opportunity to hear from and meet authors, as well as purchase books at the end of the show.
Professor Milroy, also an award-winning author of Owl and Star and the Backyard Tales from the Bush Mob series, presented on the power of narrative in recovery of mind and body. Presenting alongside David Whish-Wilson and Bebe Oliver, the authors further explored how storytelling can assist in reclaiming self-acceptance, identity and agency.
“It was interesting because the other people I was with were both talking about their own trauma and how they created their own narratives, while I was talking about the importance of narratives and storytelling in building resilience and overcoming trauma.” Professor Milroy said.
“One woman said to me after the reading, ‘you have filled us all with joy’.”
Another attendee of the event stated, "I loved hearing Helen Milroy, Bebe Oliver, and David Wish-Wilson. Listening to First Nation Authors is something I love because I always learn so much, and I find their experiences so interesting to listen to".
Professor Helen Milroy AM on stage alongside Bebe Oliver and David Whish-Wilson
Other presenters on the day included both current and emerging Australian writers who each had a chat with the audience about their writing and the themes that bind their work together.
“This event highlighted the importance of storytelling for our social and emotional wellbeing.” Professor Milroy said when reflecting on the day.
“Storytelling is a very rewarding area to work in. When you write stories that give children hope, particularly through Indigenous storytelling, you can influence a whole generation.”
Professor Milroy further described how adversity and trauma can impact the brain development of young minds, particularly during early years.
“Investing in good mental health and wellbeing in the early years can stay with you for life. Storytelling can be built into mental health programs to help invest in a better future for our children.”
Professor Helen Milroy AM and Bebe Oliver greeting fans after the show
The event was hosted by ABC radio presenters, and was done in partnership with Fremantle Press, UWA Publishing, Magabala Books and Boffins Books.
Embrace is supported by principal partner Rio Tinto.