130,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock 🇳🇿

Come visit us this weekend!🚀 Auckland Bookstore • Open 7 days, 8:30am–5pm

The First Scientists

Deadly Inventions and Innovations from Australia's First Peoples
4.34 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 62 ratings, 8 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The First Scientists by Corey Tutt delves into the knowledge and innovations of Indigenous Australians, showcasing their profound understanding of science and nature. Crafted for young readers, it explores Indigenous expertise in areas like astronomy, ecology, and engineering. The book teaches us about the unique contributions and wisdom of one of the oldest cultures on Earth, celebrating their scientific achievements in an engaging and accessible manner.
Read More
Format: Hardback
$4499
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 4-6 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're intrigued by stories that highlight the knowledge and ingenuity of Australia's Indigenous peoples. It's perfect for young readers interested in learning about the rich scientific heritage and wisdom that has been passed down through generations, blending history with a sense of discovery.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The first book from Corey Tutt of DeadlyScience for kids aged 7 to 12 years to develop a love of science and respect for Indigenous knowledge at the same time

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

WINNER OF THE 2023 NSW PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS ‘PATRICIA WRIGHTSON PRIZE FOR CHILDREN'S LITERATURE’
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2023 PREMIER'S LITERARY AWARDS ‘INDIGENOUS WRITERS' PRIZE’
WINNER OF THE 2022 ABIA ‘BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN’
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2022 CBCA 'EVE POWNALL' AWARD
SHORTLISTED FOR THE 2022 QUEENSLAND LITERARY AWARDS 'CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD'

The First Scientists is the highly anticipated, illustrated science book from Corey Tutt of DeadlyScience. With kids aged 7 to 12 years in mind, this book will nourish readers’ love of science and develop their respect for Indigenous knowledge at the same time.

Have you ever wondered what the stars can tell us? Did you know the seasons can be predicted just by looking at subtle changes in nature? Maybe you have wondered about the origins of glue or if forensic science is possible without a crime scene investigation. Australia's First peoples have the longest continuing culture on Earth and their innovation will amaze you as you leaf through the pages of this book, learning fascinating facts and discovering the answers to life's questions.

In consultation with communities, Corey tells us of many deadly feats – from bush medicine to bush trackers – that are today considered 'science', and introduces us to many amazing scientists, both past and present. The breadth of ‘sciences’ is incredible, with six main chapters covering astronomy, engineering, forensic science, chemistry, land management, and ecology. The first scientists passed on the lessons of the land, sea, and sky to the future scientists of today through stories, song, and dance, and many of these lessons are now shared in this book.

Vibrant illustrations by Blak Douglas bring the subjects to life, so you’ll never think about science as just people in lab coats ever again!

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The First Scientists is praised for its engaging, accessible approach to the scientific achievements of First Nations people. The book combines ancient knowledge with modern science, providing insights into areas like astronomy, engineering, and environmental management. It's valued for its ability to educate and inspire both young audiences and adults, highlighting a deep sense of pride in Indigenous culture and contributions.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781741177527

Publisher: Hardie Grant Explore

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 13 October 2021

Country: Australia

Imprint: Hardie Grant Explore

Illustration: Full colour throughout

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 210.0mm

Height: 255.0mm

Weight: 622g

Pages: 96

About the Author

Corey Tutt OAM is a Kamilaroi man from Nowra on the New South Wales south coast. As a kid, he dreamed of becoming a zookeeper and in high school he developed a love of STEM subjects. But unlike the arts and sport, he found there was little encouragement for Aboriginal people to pursue careers in STEM. In 2018, while working as a research assistant for the University of Sydney, Corey founded DeadlyScience, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide science books and telescopes to remote schools in Australia, and connects young Indigenous people with mentors to encourage their participation in STEM subjects. In 2020, Corey was named the NSW Young Australian of the Year, and a Human Rights Hero by the Australian Human Rights Commission. He continues to work tirelessly to send STEM resources to Indigenous communities, and show First Nations kids that STEM is for them. The organisation has even attracted international attention, with Corey presenting at Harvard and Oxford universities. In 2021, DeadlyScience received the Australian Museum Eureka STEM Inclusion Prize. In 2022, Corey received the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to Indigenous STEM education.

Also by Corey Tutt

View all
  • Caution! This Book Contains Deadly Reptiles
    As a child, Corey would run barefoot across fields, climb rocks, jump into creeks, and explore red sands in search of reptiles. The only reference books he could find included European and Latin names, but as a Kamilaroi man, Corey was keen to learn reptile names in First Languages. Sharing knowledge from 20 different First Nations, Caution! This Book Contains...
    Hardback
    $3699
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Come Home, Bigibila
    Bigibila was born on a night when Gawarrgay, the dark emu, was high in the sky. The air tasted of native lime and was full of the sound of animal songs. This is my Country, Bigibila thought. My place. But when Bigibila finds herself far from her Country - how will she ever find her way back? With Gamilaraay words...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • This Book Thinks Ya Deadly!
    This Book Thinks Ya Deadly! is an inspirational, illustrated compendium that celebrates the diversity and success of First Nations People. Written by Corey Tutt, author of The First Scientists, this book features the profiles of more than 70 Blakfellas who are doing deadly things across sport, art, activism, and science, through to politics, education, and literature. It showcases the careers...
    Hardback
    $4499
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Deadly Science: Light and Colour
    Light from our Sun and other sources is all around, bringing colour, heat and energy. Over time, humans have harnessed light to create fire, fluorescent light and even scientific equipment like lasers. But light and colour are tricky. Too much or too little light changes our body chemistry, when it bends it can fool our eyes, and it can even...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Deadly Science: Numbers in Nature
    Mathematical concepts are all around us – in nature, architecture, art, biology, computer science and in our everyday lives. Did you know that natural processes, such as how bees swarm, have been used as a model or computer algorithms, or that boomerangs work using similar aerodynamic concepts as aircraft? Explore how number patterns, symmetry, algebra, geometry and other maths concepts...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Animal Survival
    Animals are fantastically adapted to their environment. In order to survive, they have developed features, such as warm winter coats, and abilities, such as camouflage.  In this book, students explore the survival of Australian animals in a range of environments, with a recognition of the way Indigenous Australians have observed, celebrated and protected our native species for thousands of years. ...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Earth’s Changing Surfaces
    On any given day the earth is changing – with floods, earthquakes, droughts and storms occurring with every-increasing power and volume. Climate change has altered our lives forever; this book will not only show you how it happens, but also help you understand its impact on our precious planet.The ground we're standing on has so much to teach us –...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Before It Was Called Science
    Across these vast lands and skies, the First Peoples have walked with Country for thousands of years. They read the land and waters like a book. They knew the winds, watched the stars, and listened deeply to the environment around them. They understood that to take care of Country is to take care of yourself, your family, and the generations...
    Hardback
    $3699
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Deadly Science: How Plants Thrive
    Australia's native plants have learned to survive in our harshest environments, from the driest corners of the outback to the humid forests of northern Queensland. Over time, they have adapted and adjusted to every imaginable threat. In Deadly Science: How Plants Thrive, you will discover seeds that need fire to crack open, encounter carnivorous plants that eat insects, and others...
    Hardback
    $2799
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Deadly Science: Animal Adaptations
    Living things are fantastically adapted to their environments. In order to survive, animals have developed features like thick winter coats, the ability to camouflage themselves, and even techniques for going without water for long stretches of time. In Deadly Science: Animal Adaptations, students explore the adaptations of Australian animals in a range of environments, with a recognition of the way...
    Hardback
    Sold Out

More from Children's Books

View all
  • New Release
    Gruffalo Granny
    The brand new Gruffalo picture book from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The Gruffalo said to his daughter one day, "Your Gruffalo Granny is coming to stay." Return to the deep dark wood with the first new Gruffalo story in over 20 years, and meet Gruffalo Granny as she visits the Gruffalo family. This fresh and exciting new Gruffalo adventure...
    Hardback
    $2499
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    (2)
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Detective Beans Colouring Club
    New Release
    Detective Beans Colouring Club
    Help Detective Beans solve the case of the missing colours! Join the Colouring Club now! Join the Detective Beans Colouring Club! Inside you'll find 40 removable colouring pages featuring scenes from all over Cat Town. Filled with all the characters you know and love from the Detective Beans graphic novels like Biscuits, Beans' mum, Mr Brickle, Bear, Detective Baby Bird...
    By Li Chen
    Paperback
    $1799
    Elsewhere:
    $2100
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Wahine
    New Release
    Wahine
    From a majestic mermaid to a clay woman, the creator of glaciers to the mother of gardening, discover powerful wahine and how their stories shaped the world around us. Wahine introduces readers to twelve purakau of brave, bold, and inspiring women of Aotearoa. A beautifully illustrated collection that will delight the whole whanau, from award-winning illustrator Isobel Joy Te Aho-White....
    Hardback
    $3199
    Elsewhere:
    $3999
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    The Sixth Faction
    Beatrice Prior stands on the brink of a decision every person in her world must make: five factions, five futures, five lives. She has a plan: she's going to make the bravest choice, and leave Abnegation behind to join Dauntless, even though it means leaving her family behind. But when tragedy strikes at her Choosing Ceremony, everything changes—her world, her...
    Paperback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    Lottie Brooks’s Twelve Disasters of Christmas
    From hilarious MEGA bestselling author, Katie Kirby, comes a new story collection from the world of Lottie Brooks! But this time... it's not about Lottie! From hilarious MEGA bestselling author, Katie Kirby, comes a new story collection from the world of Lottie Brooks! And it's CHRISTMAS! In The Completely Chaotic Christmas of Lottie Brooks we spent the holiday season with...
    Paperback
    $1799
    Elsewhere:
    $2100
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Matihe! Achoo! Matihe! Achoo!
    New Release
    Matihe! Achoo!
    What happens when a grumpy tupua has to sneeze? Matihe! Achoo! is a bilingual story about the tupua Mataoho and his connection to the volcanoes of Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. It comes with an action song to engage young readers! He pūrākau e pā ana ki a Mataoho me ngā puia o Takamaki Makaurau. He tupua pukukino a Mataoho e noho...
    Paperback
    $1899
    Elsewhere:
    $2100
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • The Sweet As Looky Book
    New Release
    The Sweet As Looky Book
    Can you find all the chocolate fish? Is it possible for kiwi to fly? Can you spot the difference? See Aotearoa New Zealand through the eyes of award-winning artist Donovan Bixley in The Sweet As Looky Book. Use your finest skills to seek out pirates in the Bay of Islands and birds in Rakiura Stewart Island. Get in a car...
    Hardback
    $2299
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • Pocket Observology
    New Release
    Pocket Observology
    Pocket Observology is a practical field guide designed for those who love to explore and understand the natural world around them. Slip this guide out of your pocket to identify, measure, compare, or find clues to the things you encounter every day in nature. This pocket guide is a useful tool and a fun reminder of how to engage with...
    Paperback
    $2399
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    The Day of the Dinosaur Disaster
    Angry anacondas, blizzarding blobs, carnivorous cactuses ... what kind of twisted curse will Glam-Evil think up this time?!Only it's not just Glam-Evil's curse the gang needs to worry about; they've got a few other problems, too. Swooping Pteranodons, a hungry T-Rex, a missing mother, and ... is that ... an ASTEROID?!Join MILES AND JONES as they face their biggest challenge...
    Paperback
    $1400
    Elsewhere:
    $1499
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    The Neverfear
    A world of richly-imagined wonder Cressida Cowell It’s the Midsummer Feast on the Islet of Glimt and on this magical moonlit evening, the word on everyone’s lips is bandits. Reports of masked men burning villages are spreading throughout the Archipelago, but worse is still to come: Christopher and Anya are ambushed and one of the people they love most is...
    Paperback
    $1999
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    Mari the Unwonderful Witch
    A charming, cosy and thought-provoking tale about a wonderfully unconventional little witch, by bestselling author of BUTTER, Asako Yuzuki. Perfect for fans of WICKED, KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE, and THE HATMAKERS series by Tamzin Merchant - and anyone who likes an enchanting adventure with just a hint of mischief. Mari the Unwonderful Witch introduces us to Mari, an eleven-year-old witch who...
    Paperback
    $1999
    Elsewhere:
    $2400
    In Stock
    Ships Monday
  • New Release
    Animalia 40th Anniversary Edition
    A beautiful, foiled collector's edition to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Graeme Base's classic and bestselling Australian picture book, Animalia. Embark on a fantastical alphabetic adventure where each turn of the page unveils a rich tapestry of intricate illustrations tied to a unique letter of the alphabet. More than 5 million copies sold worldwide Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA)...
    Hardback
    $2999
    Elsewhere:
    $3500
    In Stock
    Ships Monday

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.