I use quite a lot of Asian spices in my cooking and Dana enjoyed the holiday camp on Spices at Kids Gallery early this year so when we first discovered this children’s book devoted entirely to Asian Spices, I thought it was an ingenious initiative – what a great way to introduce a part of our Asian heritage to the younger ones.

Star Anise Superstar is the first title in the bilingual Asian Spice Kids series written by Linn Shekinah targeted at children ages 4-8.  Sponsored by the Ministry of Education’s Lee Kuan Yew Bilingualism Fund, the series aims to promote Asian Values through stories which young children can relate to.  In the book, Star Anise dreams of being a star but feels neglected in Spice Town.  She then sets off in search of ‘stardom’, bring the children along on a journey of self-discovery to find out what it really means to be a ‘star’.  We asked Dana to write a short review of the book and this is her contribution:

“I like this book because I learnt that a star is not supposed to be popular, talented or famous. A star is supposed to be caring to her friends.”  Dana Joy, 6

A fun and easy read!

Full colour illustrations of a heartwarming story

Interesting extension activities in both English and Chinese

We love the beautiful illustrations and the creative characterization of the Asian Spices. The bilingual storyline provided bonding moments as we took turns to read the story aloud in Chinese and I too, picked up some Chinese names of the Asian Spices in the process.  Dana enjoyed the exclusive 4-page language-based extension activities that came with the book.   For us, any well-written story that imparts a moral value is a winner.

With 4 more fun titles (Chilli, Sharp and Spicy! Cinnamon, Swift and Smart! Clove, Bold and Brave! Shallot, Strong and Steady!) to be launched, the Asian Spice Kids series is a gem.  We are waiting to read them all!  Star Anise Superstar is available at Flip for Joy bookstore for S$16.50.

SPECIAL GIVEAWAY!

We have 2 copies of Star Anise, Superstar for two lucky PrincessDanaDiaries readers.  To enter the giveaway, simply follow the steps:

Picture Credit

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway ends 30 May, 2014. Winners will be notified by email.  All the best!

Inspired by the book, I’m sharing a favourite recipe with Star Anise as one of the ‘Star’ ingredients.  This is a comfort ‘one-pot’ dish in many Chinese households.  Try it!

Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce
 

Credit: NoobCook Click here to go to recipe