Two Sisters

Two Sisters by Ngarta Jinny Bent, Jukuna Mona Chuguna, Eirlys Richards, and Pat Lowe tells the compelling story of Ngarta and Jukuna, who lived in the Great Sandy Desert. They traversed the country according to the seasons, just as the Walmajarri people had done for thousands of years. It was a time of change, as desert people who had lived with little knowledge of European settlement were starting to move onto cattle stations. Those left behind faced unimaginable challenges and vulnerabilities.

In 1961, when Jukuna leaves with her new husband, young Ngarta remains with a group of women and children. Tragedy strikes, forcing Ngarta to travel alone. Her survival depends on cunning and courage as she is pursued by two murderers in a vast, unforgiving landscape.

Jukuna's rich account may be the first autobiography written in an Aboriginal language. Presented in English and Walmajarri, her determination to see her language written has made her one of our most valued authors.