Wearing the Poppy: Why we do it and what it means by A.J. Toledo.

Yet another title capitalising on the surge of interest in all things ANZAC? Certainly not!

This simple, personal book opens the way for those of middle primary years to gain an enhanced appreciation of the "ANZAC" concept.

Certainly Gallipoli features, how could it not, given the subject? We follow one family of soldiers from the Dardanelles through the trenches and, for some, home to New Zealand. Toledo doesn't slip into the oh-so-easy trap of providing excessive military detail. There is enough to engage while at the same time providing personal insight.

The use of quotes ranging from "And the band played Waltzing Matilda", and "In Flanders Field" to family letters, produce an accessible and personable narrative that focussed on the author's Uncle, Jock MacKenzie. It is clear that Toledo gets to know "Uncle Jock" through researching and writing the tale. And so do the readers.

The focus on "the poppy" as the remembrance symbol of ANZAC is very interesting. How many knew it was an imported tradition and that the poppy wasn't worn in New Zealand until 1922? Or that New Zealand is unusual in commemorating 25 April, ANZAC Day, not 11 November, Armistice or Remembrance Day, by donning the poppy?

The subtitle is accurate. WHY we do and WHAT it means are simply, yet brilliantly examined by Toledo in a title that is a must for all primary schools.

Recommended.

Reviewed by David

HarperCollins 2009