Looking for Imani

Looking for Imani by Dianne Bates (Woodslane Press) RRP: $16.99 ISBN 9781922800985

Reviewed by Rebecca Fung

Dianne Bates is an award-winning author of children's books such as To The Moon and Back and The Butti Butti Bunyip. This story, a short one about an immigrant family in Australia with a Middle Eastern background, is narrated by one of the daughters, Nabila.

Nabila's younger sister, Imani, goes missing in the shops one day. The family is not sure whether she's wandered off or she's been taken but their anxiety about her disappearance rises as Imani doesn't show up. There are difficulties communicating with authorities due to language barriers.

The story shows how the family reaches into their Australian community and there is unexpected kindness. It really shows the meaning of "community spirit" in hard times.

The story is not a detective story: we are told what happens to Imani and while it is somewhat interesting, it is not a surprise. It is instead a story about people, understanding and relationships, especially people in marginalised groups. Looking for Imani is a quiet, simple and hopeful story. It encourages us to care about people who really need consideration in our communities.