Mary Grant Bruce
The Stone Axe of Burkamukk
"The Stone Axe of Burkamukk" by Mary Grant Bruce is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set among Aboriginal tribes in Australia, centering on Burkamukk, a wise chief, and his tribe as they face challenges posed by a fearsome beast called Kuperee. The narrative intertwines themes of bravery, tradition, and the importance of cultural heritage, particularly focusing on the legends and lives of Indigenous Australians. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to Burkamukk's tribe, which lives contentedly in a tranquil camp by a creek. The tranquility is shattered when a hunting party returns with news of a gigantic, ferocious kangaroo named Kuperee that has already claimed the life of one of the tribe's warriors, Kon-garn. In response to this threat, Burkamukk rallies the young men to seek vengeance, but their initial attempts result in further tragedy. The opening chapters set the stage for an engaging adventure filled with elements of magic, the valor of youth, and the deep roots of cultural storytelling, introducing readers to the rich tapestry of Aboriginal life and lore.