Entertainment
11 October, 2026
Book targets deaf children
A STRONG turn-out from Far North Queensland’s deaf community marked the official launch of local author and Auslan interpreter Jacki McNab’s children’s book, ‘Astrid of Skaldvik’.
The book was officially launched at Cairns City Library on 26 September 2026, with members of the deaf community gathering to support McNab and to celebrate the publication.
Set in a remote Viking village, Astrid of Skaldvik follows a young deaf girl who discovers that empathy and communication can bridge divides.
When enormous rock trolls threaten her village, Astrid recognises what others cannot – the creatures simply want to be understood. Through sign language, courage and compassion, she teaches her community that communication goes beyond spoken words.
The book provides representation for deaf children while introducing hearing children to deaf culture, Auslan and different ways of communicating.
Alongside traditional paperback and ebook editions, Astrid of Skaldvik has also been produced in an accessible multimedia format featuring Auslan translation by deaf educator Erin Davies, subtitles, voiceover and illustrations.
The format is designed to engage deaf, blind and hearing audiences, as well as children with diverse communication and learning needs.
“Watching the deaf community come together to celebrate Jacki and this beautiful publication was incredibly moving,” publisher Crystal Leonardi said.
“What makes this book so important is that it doesn’t simply tell children about inclusion. It gives them an opportunity to experience it. Every child deserves to see themselves represented in the stories they read and every child deserves the opportunity to understand and appreciate those who communicate differently.”
Ms McNab hopes the book will reach schools, libraries, early learning centres and family homes throughout Australia.
