Sage Cookson's Singapore sensation by Sally Murphy

Ill. by Celeste Hulme. Sage Cookson bk 4. New Frontier Publishing, 2017. ISBN 9781925059960
(Age: Newly independent readers) Cooking. Travel. Mystery. Family life. Friendship. Ten year-old Sage Cookson travels with her famous TV chef parents Ginger and Basil all over Australia and the world. In each new destination, the crew film her parents tasting new foods, eating at popular restaurants, and learning new cooking techniques and sharing this knowledge with their large TV audience. On each trip, while Sage accompanies her parents she also becomes involved in a mystery.
Sage's new adventure begins as they catch their flight to Singapore; they are finally able to have a break after a busy year of travelling and filming. Sage catches sight of a woman with a zany haircut, short and long with a bright pink streak, and this lady seems to follow them throughout their holiday in beautiful Singapore. On board, Mum spends all her time finalising the last changes to her new cookbook 'The spice of life', while Dad and Sage relax. In the hustle and bustle of customs, sorting out bags and passports, the pink-haired lady brushes past them.
On arrival at their hotel, Mum is devastated to find her manuscript missing and their holiday plans are upset. Even with this mishap, the family enjoy exploring Singapore, going on the river, to the beautiful sculptures at Gardens by the Bay and of course enjoying all the culinary delights on offer. Sage keeps in constant contact with her best friend Lucy, texting her about all their holiday fun and about the mysterious woman who keeps appearing.
Sally Murphy's junior novel is perfect for the newly independent reader, someone who enjoys cooking, mysteries, adventure and family fun. A delicious recipe for Easy Chicken Satay is included as well. With the popularity of television cooking shows for juniors, this series is a great fit with young cooks and those who enjoy mystery and adventure.
Rhyllis Bignell