Star of Anise

Jane Jolly (text) and Di Wu (illustrator), Star of Anise, National Library of Australia, October 2022, 32 pp., RRP $19.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781922507396

Based on the stories of Sikh hawkers in Australia in the late 1800s, Jane Jolly transports readers on a journey of culture and tradition. Australian children Annie and Arthur eagerly await the arrival of Bhagwan Singh on his wagon which is filled with treasures of colour, texture, and smell.

The children delight in exploring the silks, soaps, spices, and shirts available in the wagon and excitedly enjoy the delicious spun sugar that Bhagwan makes for them.

Through the children’s interactions with Bhagwan readers are introduced to the aromas of Punjabi cooking, including star anise, the practice of turbans and the growing of hair as a spiritual power, and the commitment to caring for it, and spiritual practices like prayer.

Bhagwan hands Annie a handful of star anise and says, ‘a piece of India’. The following day Annie gives Bhagwan some gumnuts and says, ‘a piece of Australia’ to which he responds, ‘my star of Annie’. This interaction demonstrates the sharing of culture while also highlighting the importance of inclusion and community.

Di Wu’s illustrations are warm and informative, reflecting the messages of Jolly’s words. Throughout the book there are whimsical cloud like images used to capture the magic of star anise and convey transporting to another land, India, its architecture, traditional dress, and movement. The inclusion of the mandala type patterns also supports the exploration of culture and transportation to India.

At the back of the book there is valuable information about the history of hawkers in Australia which includes valuable photos and drawings. Teacher notes are also available.

Reviewed by Raquel Mayman

Notabled in the 2022 CBCA Picture Book of the Year category, the hardback edition is no longer available (on Booktopia). However, a paperback edition is coming in October, the cover and publication details of which is displayed here.

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