“That Deadman Dance” is a novel written by Kim Scott, an Australian author of Indigenous descent. Published in 2010, the novel is set in the early 19th century in the region that would later become Western Australia. It explores the interactions and conflicts between the indigenous Noongar people and the European settlers during the early days of colonization.

The story primarily follows the character of Bobby Wabalanginy, a young Noongar boy who is curious and open-minded. He forms a unique bond with the British sailor, Lieutenant Preston, who arrives on the shores of Australia with a group of settlers. Preston is interested in learning about the Noongar language and culture, and Bobby becomes his interpreter and intermediary between the two communities.

As the settlers establish their presence and begin to impose their customs and beliefs on the land, tensions arise between the Noongar people and the newcomers. The novel depicts the complexities of these interactions, as well as the ways in which language, communication, and understanding play crucial roles in shaping the relationships between the two groups.

“That Deadman Dance” also explores themes of cultural identity, belonging, and the impact of colonization on indigenous communities. Through Bobby’s perspective, the reader gains insight into the struggles and challenges faced by the Noongar people as they navigate the changes brought about by the arrival of the settlers.

Kim Scott’s novel is known for its lyrical and evocative prose, as well as its nuanced portrayal of the historical events and social dynamics of the time. “That Deadman Dance” not only sheds light on the complex history of indigenous-settler relations in Australia but also offers a powerful exploration of language, culture, and the resilience of the Noongar people in the face of profound change.