Wear a purple poppy by Fiona White. Illus. by Kathleen O'Hagan

Wear a Purple Poppy is an informative picture book that provides a comprehensive yet easily accessible text to introduce primary school-aged children to the role animals played during two world wars and later conflicts. In 2019, the Australian Parliament declared 24 February the National Day for War Animals and this book clearly explains the idea of wearing the purple poppy and what it is recognition for.

The striking front cover displays animals in a field of purple poppies with an embossed purple title as well as a purple spine, that will immediately draw the reader’s attention to the book.  Beginning with a poem written as a tribute to the animals that served during war, the book then goes onto explain the types of work undertaken by these animals. Animals discussed in the story include donkeys, horses, mules, dogs, elephants, pigeons, cats and camels. The role horses, donkeys, camels and mules played in carrying personnel, belongings, artillery and supplies will be familiar to many. Dogs and pigeons helped to carry messages, elephants in Burma were used to build bridges and carry rations and belongings for refugees, and even cats had a vital role in keeping the rat population in check! During the war many of the animals were killed or injured but their loyalty was indisputable. Throughout the book are detailed full page illustrations which perfectly complement and add depth to the text.

Teacher notes are available. Included in the excellent teacher notes are extensive lists of further resources for picture books, graphic novels, junior fiction, junior & YA non-fiction, and websites. A treasure trove of resources to support planning, teaching and learning.

Themes: War, Animals, Remembrance, Poppies.

Kathryn Beilby