A timeless classic from the Dreamtime. there are innumerable names and stories associated with the Rainbow Serpent, all of which communicate the significance of this being within Aboriginal traditions. Dreamtime stories tell how the Rainbow Serpent came from beneath the ground and created huge ridges, mountains and gorges as it pushed upward. the name also reflects the snake-like meandering of water across a landscape and the color spectrum sometimes caused by sunlight hitting the water. Paintings of the Rainbow Serpent first appeared in Arnhem Land rock art more than 6000 years ago, and perhaps as early as 8000 years before the present, as the seas rose after the last Ice Age. today the Rainbow Serpent is associated with ceremonies about fertility and abundance, as well as the organisation of the community and the keeping of peace.

 

This book is part of a book series called Australian Childrens Classics .

There are 32 pages in this book. This is a picture book. A picture book uses pictures and text to tell the story. The number of words varies from zero ('wordless') to around 1k over 32 pages. Picture books are typically aimed at young readers (age 3-6) but can also be aimed at older children (7+). This book was published 1900 by HarperCollins Publishers (Australia) Pty Ltd .

Percy Trezise is an authority on Aboriginal legends and culture and was awarded and Order of Australia in September 1996. Together with aboriginal artist Dick Roughsey they have written and illustrated eight children's books. This picture book is part of a series called Journey of the Great Lake.