The Rainbow Serpent

Overview of "The Rainbow Serpent" by Dick Roughsey:

Key Themes

• Australian Culture and Folklore: The book is deeply rooted in Australian Aboriginal culture, specifically the Dreamtime stories that explain the creation of the world and its features.
• Creation Myth: The story revolves around the creation of the Earth and its landscapes, highlighting the role of the Rainbow Serpent (Goorialla) in shaping the environment.
• Survival and Adaptation: The narrative often touches on survival techniques and adaptations of Australian tribespeople, emphasizing their connection with nature.
• Transformation and Change: The transformation of the two brothers into rainbow lorikeet birds and the subsequent events illustrate themes of transformation and change.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the Earth being flat and devoid of life. Goorialla, the Great Rainbow Serpent, stirs and sets off to find his own tribe. He travels across Australia, creating mountains, ridges, and gorges as he moves. When he reaches Cape York, he realizes that the people there speak a different language, prompting him to continue his search.

During his journey, Goorialla encounters two brothers, Bil Bil, who seek shelter in his tent. Fearing the tribe's reaction, Goorialla swallows them whole. When the tribe discovers Goorialla on a mountain top, they cut open his stomach to free the brothers, who have transformed into rainbow-colored birds.

Goorialla becomes enraged, causing the mountain to shake and tear apart, resulting in the death and injury of many tribespeople. The story concludes with Goorialla disappearing into the sea, where he continues to survive as a shooting star watching over all living things.

Critical Reception

While specific critical reviews are not readily available in the provided sources, the book is generally recognized for its cultural significance and educational value. It is often used in educational settings to teach children about Australian culture and folklore, as evident from the Scholastic study guide which highlights its themes and objectives for children aged K-4.

The book's timeless classic status is also acknowledged in various contexts, including a YouTube video that discusses its enduring relevance in Australian Dreamtime stories.

Additional Context

Dick Roughsey's "The Rainbow Serpent" is a significant work in Australian literature, offering a unique perspective on the Dreamtime stories that are central to Aboriginal culture. The book's narrative style and themes have been praised for their ability to engage children while providing a rich cultural experience.