Introducing Big Bill and the Magic Words: A Tale About RightsBy Lady Peta Young

✨ A Bright New Book with a Big Message for Little Australians

G'day families, educators, and young changemakers! I’m thrilled to share some very exciting news—my latest children’s picture book, Big Bill and the Magic Words: A Tale About Rights, is here! This isn’t just a delightful rhyming storybook (though it is delightfully rhyming). It’s also a gentle but powerful invitation to young readers to think about fairness, safety, kindness, and what it means to have rights that can’t just disappear overnight.

Written and illustrated by yours truly, Big Bill and the Magic Words is for curious kids who ask big questions—and the grown-ups who want to raise informed, empowered citizens.

🦘 What’s It All About?

Set in the sun-soaked land of Oz, this story follows a wise, scroll-wielding character named Big Bill who introduces the idea of a Bill of Rights to a group of spirited Aussie kids. Through vibrant illustrations and playful verse, we explore why rules need to be fair, how freedom of speech and protest work, and why it's essential that our rights be protected for everyone—young and old, city folk and bush kids alike.

From kangaroo judges to koalas in glasses, the book combines classic Aussie imagery with a modern, forward-thinking message that’s rooted in democratic values and civic education.

🛡 Why This Book, and Why Now?

Here’s the heart of the matter: Australia doesn’t yet have a formal Bill of Rights written into its Constitution. That means our fundamental freedoms—freedom of speech, belief, safety, equality—can be overlooked, misunderstood, or even undermined. As a writer, educator, and mum who’s passionate about teaching kids (especially those with special needs) how to find their voice, I knew it was time to put this idea into story form.

Because children deserve to grow up understanding what it means to have rights—not just rules. And they deserve a chance to be part of shaping the future of their country.

👧🏽 Who’s It For?

• Young readers aged 5–10

• Teachers and homeschoolers introducing civics

• Parents who want meaningful bedtime reads

• Advocates for human rights and education

• Little Aussies with big questions

  
  

💬 What’s in the Back?

At the end of the book, there’s a helpful explanation for parents, carers, and educators about what a Bill of Rights actually is and why it matters in the Australian context. It’s a springboard for important conversations—and perhaps a few “aha!” moments.

🎉 The Takeaway?

Big Bill and the Magic Words isn’t just a fun, rhythmic read—it’s a rallying cry in rhyme. It’s about building up our children’s understanding of justice, empathy, and civic courage, brick by brick (or page by page).

Let’s empower our little ones to speak up, stand strong, and shine bright under our Aussie sun—protected by words that matter.

📖 Grab Your Copy, Share the Message

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or policy buff with a soft spot for storytelling, this book is for you. Let’s spark a national conversation—starting with the youngest voices.

Because when our rights are clear and bright, we all can live with peace and light.

Lady Peta YoungAuthor • Illustrator • Advocate for Tiny Truth-Tellers

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes peeks at the making of Big Bill, printable activity pages, and educator resources coming soon!