Stars of Tagai. The Torres Straight Islanders

xxii, 321pp, index, bibliography, notes, endpaper maps. As new. Picture of a unique sea culture rich in meanings and custom. The rhythm of the Torres straight islander's lives follows the movement of the constellation, tagai, a mythical hero who stands in a canoe; his left hand the Southern Cross, holds a fish spear. The stars of Tagai usher in the seasons, and act as a guide to voyaging and cultivating throughout the Torres Straight. This book explores four meanings of the tagai myth in the life of the Islanders since the mid-19th century. Its main focus is a growing identity and self-awareness. Also the first book to examine the social issues involved in the historic Mabo case and to give a picture of the fabric of life of the Meriam people of the Murray Islands. It considers local precedents for current moves for political autonomy, examines the various reasons behind moves for sovereignty in the 1980s and considers future options. Size: Large 8vo.