Sport Read Around the Subject - The Petersfield School
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Read Around the Subject
Sport
Recommended Reading List
Basketball
Rebound #0. 5 by Kwame Alexander
Hoop kings SOAR in kicks with wings. Game so sweet it’s like bee stings.
It's 1988. Charlie Bell is still mourning his father and struggling to figure out how he feels for his
best (girl) friend, CJ. When he gets into trouble one too many times, he's packed off to stay with
his grandparents for the summer. There his cousin Roxie introduces him to a whole new world:
basketball. A legend on the courts is born. But can Charlie resist when trouble comes knocking
once again? A prequel to The Crossover, winner of the Newbery Medal,
and follow-up to Booked, highly commended for the CLiPPA prize and
nominated for the Carnegie Medal.
The Crossover: Graphic Novel by Kwame Alexander
'With a bolt of lightning on my kicks. 'Cuz tonight I'm delivering,' raps twelve-year-old Josh
Bell. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood - he's got mad beats, too, which help
him find his rhythm when it's all on the line.
Slam Dunk: An Unbeatable Story by Jenny Oldfield
Thirteen-year-old Ashlee Carson is a basketball star. Tall and blonde,
she takes after her father, a former professional player. But her
mother has ambitions that go beyond the basketball court. She wants Ashlee to focus on her
studies. When Ashlee gets the chance to compete for a place on the national girls' team, she
heads for Florida. Can she count on her deadbeat dad for support? And will her mother ever
forgive her?
Boxing
Chessboxer by Stephen Davies
Leah Baxter is a genius. She's a few wins away from becoming a junior chess grand master,
and her life is on course to achieve everything her mom and coach want for her. But Leah is
at stalemate; grieving for her father and feeling suffocated. She decides to make the
ultimate sacrifice and quit chess. But chess doesn't want to quit her. Soon Leah discovers her
new gambit: chessboxing, a dangerous hybrid sport which will test her body and mind to
their limits. Can the pawn become the queen?
Amir Khan by Andy Croft
School boy boxer. Silver medal at the Olympics. World champion. How did the boy from
Bolton become such a superstar? Find out here!
Simply written, the story of the boxer might speak specially to boys in Key Stage 2.
Fighting Ruben Wolfe #2 (14+) by Markus Zusak
It's the difference between being a winner and being a fighter... Cameron and Ruben Wolfe
are brothers from a family clinging to the ragged edge of the working class. Initially to make
some money, the boys hook up with a sleazy fight promoter who sees something marketable
and audience-pleasing in the untrained brothers' vulnerability. So, they hide the boxing
from their long-suffering mother. And Cameron hides what's going on in his head from the
girls who come to the matches, the girls he wishes he could reach. But the Wolfes soon find
that they're fighting for more than tips and pay-off money. It becomes for them a fight for
identity, for dignity, and for each other. The question is, in a fight like that, who makes it out
of the ring intact?
Cricket
Diary of a Cricket God by Shamini Flint*
Perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid who love cricket, this journal-style novel is a laugh a
minute. Marcus is a math whiz who can't do sport. His dad is a self-help author who thinks
Marcus can achieve anything he sets his mind to... with hilarious results! A quick, fun read that
will certainly be quite the catch for readers who love illustrated fiction.
Butter-Finger by Bob Cattell and John Agard*
With music and sport merging together in this celebration of calypso and cricket from author
Bob Cattle and poet John Agard, this book shows the power of poetry as main character
Riccardo gets dropped from his cricket team. Practising his poems and wandering around the
West Indian island he lives on; he meets one of the island's most eccentric figures and the two
plot a way for Riccardo to regain his place on the team. A delight for Key Stage 2 readers that
shows another side to sport.
A Cricketing Dream by Chris May *
Matthew Temple has one thing on his mind: playing for England, just like his dad. Will he fulfil
this dream? Will Lords Cricket Ground ever await him? This terrific tale shows how hard work,
determination, resilience and having a goal in mind can lead anyone to success, even though
there may be hardships along the way.
Class 10’s Chance to Shine by Rachel Wong *
In association with national cricket charity Chance to Shine, who work in state schools and
communities across England and Wales, and with a foreword written by England
international cricketer Moeen Ali, this is one not to miss. Alex loves cricket but hopes his
friends develop the same passion for the sport as him when Chance to Shine coaches visit
his school. Initially things don't quite go to plan but with the help of his teacher,
perseverance and resilience become the name of the game!
Glory Gardens by Bob Cattell *
Lots of the books in this list have been published within the last ten years but this is an older
favourite. As a group of friends begin to take the game of cricket more seriously, one of their
schoolteachers suggests that they form their very own team and Glory Gardens Cricket Club is
born. Captain Hooker soon finds out that playing together is not as easy as he first thought,
however, and it takes more than time to keep the team together. This is the first in a brilliant,
accessible and classic series of books about cricket that are just as recommended for lovers of
the sport as it is for readers who know nothing about the game.
Hat Trick (Toby Jones) by Brett Lee and Michael Pankridge *
An omnibus edition of the first in the Toby Jones series of time-slip books that take the
reader back to famous cricket matches of the past. When Toby and his classmates go to
the MCG archives on a school excursion, they discover that Toby can see numbers and
words whirl on the pages of old Wisdens, which means that he has the potential to travel
back in time. With the assistance of the library caretaker, Jim, Toby and some of his
friends are transported back to famous matches including the 1999 World Cup semi-final
between Australia and South Africa in England.
Pay Attention, Carter Jones by Gary D Schmidt
Told from the perspective of a fourteen year old American boy whose life changes for the
better when an old-fashioned, traditional (and slightly magical) English butler comes into his
life and teaches him important lessons, including how to play the game of cricket. Older
readers will be bowled over by this.
Cycling
Chris Hoy: The Autobiography by Chris Hoy
Fully updated to include Sir Chris Hoy’s incredible, record-breaking golds at London 2012
(making him his country’s greatest ever Olympian), this is the story of a sporting legend in
his own words. This 33-year-old cycling fanatic from Murrayfield in the suburbs of
Edinburgh defied the doubters who thought he would struggle when his specialist
discipline, the 1km time trial, was dropped from the Olympics, and went on to reinvent
himself as a track cycling sprinter and triple Olympic gold medallist in Beijing. His return to
these shores sparked unprecedented celebrations and real admiration that here was a
role model who was the epitome of all things that are good in sport.
King of the Mountain by Steve Lee
When he tries to break into a team of older teenagers Paddy faces threats, injustice and
rejection. It’s not just his new teammates causing problems as Paddy’s family life is
rather chaotic, with his father just released from prison and his mother totally
overworked. It’s Paddy’s burning desire to be the very best that keeps him striving
courageously towards his goal.
Between the Lines: The Autobiography by Victoria Pendleton
The Golden Girl of British cycling opens up for the first time, in searingly honest detail, about
the doubts and trials she has had to overcome to stay at the top of her sport.
In Pursuit of Glory by Bradley Wiggins
Few people know the controversial world of professional cycling like
Bradley Wiggins. At the 2004 Olympics in Athens, he became the first
British athlete in 40 years to win three medals in a single Olympic
Games, which led to his being awarded the Order of the British Empire
(OBE). The 2007 Tour de France ended in disappointment for him when
his teammate failed a drug test, but he roared back in Beijing, winning
double gold. In this updated version of Wiggin’s warts-and-all account, he reveals his incredible
life in cycling, and the truth behind the sport.
Piglettes by Clementine Beauvais (14+)
Piglettes is a light-hearted Young Adult novel about three French teenagers Mireille, Astrid
and Hakima who experience on-line bullying (they are voted three ugliest girls in school by
their classmates in a Pig Pageant) and decide to cycle across France to Paris together.
The storyline follows the journey they each take, physically, socially and emotionally during
that one summer. The book uses humour to sensitively, tackle key teenage issues such as
peer and online pressures, bullying, friendship, aspiration and self-confidence without
getting too serious. Highly recommended as a light read for young teen readers.
Extreme Sports
Bubble Wrap Boy by Phil Earle
Charlie's found his secret talent: skateboarding. It's his one-way ticket to popularity. All he's
got to do is practise, and nothing's going to stop him - not his clumsiness, not his
overprotective mum, nothing! Except Charlie’s isn't the only one in his family hiding a massive
secret, and his next discovery will change everything. How do you stay on the board when your
world is turned upside down?
Slam (14+) by Nick Hornby
Whoever invented skateboarding is a genius. There's only one skater, and his name's Tony
Hawk. It doesn't matter if you don't know who he is, just trust me. Not only is Hawk the
world's best skater, he's also good to talk to. So, I talk to Tony Hawk, and Tony Hawk talks
back. Because just when it seemed like everything had come together for me, I had to go and
screw it all up. It only took two seconds. But all of me knew. One risk. One mistake and my life
would never be the same. Hawk had a few things to say. And a few things to show me. Have
you ever wondered what it would be like to see your own future?
Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Twelve-year-old Astrid has always done everything with her best friend Nicole. So, when
Astrid signs up for roller derby camp, she assumes Nicole will too. But Nicole signs up for
dance camp with a new friend instead, and so begins the toughest summer of Astrid's life.
There are bumps and bruises as Astrid learns who she is without Nicole...and what it takes to
be a strong, tough roller girl.
All or Nothing #1 by Phil Kettle
The first in a series of books in which Billy Kool hosts his own TV show
about extreme sports.
Bungee Jumping #3 by Phil Kettle
Billy Kool, Nathan and Sally continue their extreme sports TV series. This
time it's bungee jumping. At school, Billy dances with Nathan's sister,
Crystal.
Climbing Strong by Jake Maddox
Mike Gordon loves a good thrill. And he's not afraid to break the rules to
get one. But when Mike goes too far, a friend steers him in the right
direction: up. Rock climbing gives Mike all the excitement he needs. But
when things get tough, will Mike fall back into his old rule-breaking
habits?
Snowboard Sham by Jake Maddox
Will Pastora is entering his first snowboard race at the ski resort where
he's on holiday. Instead of signing up as a beginner -- where he belongs -
- he lies about his experience and registers for a higher level of
competition. But when he faces his first black-diamond mountain, Will
learns that the high level isn't just about tougher competition.
Priceless! by Andrew Peters
When a Faberge egg is stolen and makes an appearance on the black market, Charlie's ex-con
dad is an immediate suspect. But the Skateboard Detectives know that he's been set up, and
they know just how to get the real criminals bang to rights...
White Boots by Noel Streatfeild
Harriet must choose between her friend Lalla and her new-found love
of ice-skating...If you pass your inter-silver, I'll tell Aunt Claudia that I
don't want to work with you anymore. Harriet is told that she must
take up ice-skating in order to improve her health. She isn't much
good at it, until she meets Lalla Moore, a young skating star. Now
Harriet is getting better and better on the ice, and Lalla doesn't like it. Does Harriet want to
save their friendship more than she wants to skate?
Fishing
Swim that Rock by John Rocco *
With his father missing after a fishing boat accident, teenage Jake must step up to support
his family. The characters in this novel about growing up in a New England fishing town will
draw readers in.
Between Two Skies by Joanne O’Sullivan *
Evangeline can’t imagine anything better than heading out on the bayou
in her skiff. When Hurricane Katrina ravages her small fishing town,
though, it changes everything in this unforgettable story.
Football
Boyhood of Burglar Bill by Allan Ahlberg
Coronation year, 1953. The boys from the bottom pitch - a great soup of boys - play football.
When the 'Coronation Cup' is proposed, they put their heads together, pool their pocket money
and get a team up. There's no chance they'll win of course. They're just the odds and sods in Mr
Cork's opinion. Besides, he'd go berserk if they did; menace them with his one good arm and
pulverise their desks with his cricket stump. They'd be better off losing.
Booked by Kwame Alexander
Like lightning/you strike/fast and free/legs zoom/down field/eyes fixed/on the checkered
ball/on the goal/ten yards to go/can’t nobody stop you/can’t nobody cop you! Soccer, family,
love, and friendship, take centre stage as twelve-year-old Nick learns the power of words as he
wrestles with problems at home, stands up to a bully, and tries to impress the girl of his dreams.
Helping him along are his best friend and sometimes teammate Coby, and The Mac, a rapping
librarian who gives Nick inspiring books to read. This electric and heartfelt novel-in-verse by
poet Kwame Alexander bends and breaks as it captures all the thrills and setbacks, action and
emotion of a World Cup match!
David Beckham by Roy AppsEver had a dream -- a dream to win? David had a dream -- to play
for Manchester United. This is the story of David's early years and his breakthrough into
Manchester United's first team
Mohamed Salah by Adrian Besley *
Mohamed Salah: The Ultimate Fan Book takes you into the Egyptian
soccer superstar’s world like no other book. Follow Salah on an amazing
journey from growing up in a suburb of Cairo to Basel, Chelsea,
Fiorentina, AS Roma, and Liverpool, where he has become a superstar of
the premier League. It is not just at club level where Salah has thrived, he has been a
mainstay of Egypt’s national team and led them to the finals of the FIFA World Cup for the
first time in 28 years, 12 months after reaching the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. Written
in a lively, buzzing style and filled with fun features, fantastic photographs, and enlightening
quotes, this book celebrates his greatest moments and most famous
goals, including the goals which have made him one of the world’s most watchable
superstars.
Neymar: The Making Barcelona's Samba Sensation by Luca Caioli
Neymar is the youngest Brazilian ever to reach 35 international goals and time is on his side as
he closes in on Pele’s long-standing record of 77. The Barcelona wonderkid has already scored
more times for Brazil by the age of 22 than Rivaldo or Jairzinho did in their entire careers.
Luca Caioli, author of bestselling biographies of Messi and Ronaldo, looks back on Neymar’s
unstoppable rise with exclusive private access to his friends and family, coaches, teammates
and adoring fans.
City Boy by Alan Combes
Josh is crazy about football, but he hasn't been performing well on the
pitch. His grandad, a retired pro, decides to train him. The training
methods are a little unorthodox... But will they help?
Georgie's War by Narinder Dhami
Georgie's known for her passion - and her temper! Will her sparks turn
into fireworks when a new team coach arrives?
Bend It Like Beckham (14+) by Narinder Dhami
Jess' parents want her to be a nice, conventional Indian girl. They pray she will settle down, study
for law school, and learn to cook the perfect chapatti. But Jess has other plans. She wants to play
soccer like her hero, David Beckham. After all, anyone can cook aloo gobi, but who can bend it like
Beckham?
Unstoppable by Dan Freedman
Secrets and lies . . . secrets and lies . . . Fourteen-year-old twins, Kaine and Roxy, used to be close,
but now they can hardly bear to be in the same room. Roxy hates the way her brother behaves -
Kaine might be brilliant at football but he's always in trouble and cares nothing about his family.
And Kaine despises the way his supposedly perfect sister, dominates their parents in her
ambition to reach Wimbledon. But the twins are both hiding dangerous secrets of their own,
secrets that could destroy everything they are working towards - and both Roxy and Kaine's
survival hangs precariously in the balance. Gripping, twisting, and real
Kick-Off by Donna King
A family move from sunny Florida to the cold north of England leaves Tyra Fraser lonely and
troubled. Out-going, fun-loving Tyra wants to fit in by playing football for the school team, but
they need a new coach and a lot of hard work if they're going to win a single game. With her
little sister causing trouble at home and problems fitting in at school, Tyra's got a lot to deal
with...
Respect! By Michaela Morgan
The gripping and moving story of Walter Tull, premier league football player and the first black
officer in the Army in the First World War.
Barrington Stoke specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Messi Rules by Simon Mugford
Is Lionel Messi your ultimate football hero? Messi was the youngest player to score 50 goals in
the Champions League, won the Ballon d'Or five times and once entertained the crowd by doing
1,200 keepy-uppies! Discover how he went from being the smallest player on the field (as a
young boy he was so tiny all the other players called him 'Titch') to being widely known as the
'Greatest of All Time'.
I Beat the Odds by Michael Oher (American Football)
The football star made famous in the hit film (and book) The Blind Side reflects on how far he
has come from the circumstances of his youth. Michael Oher shares his personal account of his
story, in this inspirational New York Times bestseller. Looking back on how he went from being
a homeless child in Memphis to playing in the NFL, Michael talks about the goals he had to
break out of the cycle of poverty, addiction, and hopelessness that trapped his family.
Eventually he grasped onto football as his ticket out and worked hard to make his dream into a
reality. With his adoptive family, the Touhys, and other influential people in mind, he describes
the absolute necessity of seeking out positive role models and good friends who share the
same values to achieve one's dreams. Sharing untold stories of heartache, determination,
courage, and love, I Beat the Odds is an incredibly rousing tale of one young man's quest to achieve the American
dream.
Kante: From the Playground to the Pitch by Matt Oldfield
N'Golo Kante is widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, but life
hasn't always been easy for the Chelsea superstar. Growing up in the Paris suburbs, N'Golo had
to work hard to overcome other people's doubts about his small stature and prove himself on
the pitch. This is the story of the small boy from the streets of Paris who grew to be an
essential member of any team he plays on.
Boys United by Tom Palmer
Jake loves football and dreams of becoming a professional footballer. He's worried about his
height though - what if he's too small for football? But on the day of his trial Jake is quick on
the ball and scores - he's made it! Jake can't wait to pull on his shirt and join the team. But
someone at the club wants to make his life difficult. Can Jake face up to the bullies and
become man of the match again? Stay on the ball this season with the first four stories
following the boys in United's under-twelves.
Girls F. C.: Do Goalkeepers Wear Tiaras? #1 by Helena Pielichaty
Girls United is the best team for football and friendship. Nine-year-old Megan Fawcett loves
football and is desperate to be on her school team. That means getting her school football coach
to notice her. She tries everything, from volleying to dribbling to even wearing a tiara, but
without success. Then she has a brainwave - she'll set up her own team. An all-girls team! Now all
she needs is a pitch, a coach...and ten other players
T. J. and the Cup Run by Theo Walcott
T.J. and his friends get a shock when their old teacher, Mr Potter, returns from illness to take
over from Mr Wood as P.E. teacher at Parkview School. Worse still, in the semi-final of the
cup, Mr Potter's tactics nearly lose them the match. With everything they've trained for
hanging in the balance, can T.J.'s team turn things around?
Golf
The Prodigy by John Feinstein (14+) *
Seventeen-year-old Frank Baker is a golfing sensation. He’s set to earn a full-ride
scholarship to play at the university of his choice, but his single dad wants him to skip
college and turn pro―golf has taken its toll on the family bank account, and his dad is eager
to start cashing in on his son’s prowess. Frank knows he isn’t ready for life on the pro
tour―regardless of the potential riches―so his swing coach enlists a professional golfer
turned journalist to be Frank’s secret adviser. Pressure mounts when, after reaching the
final of the U.S. Amateur tournament, Frank wins an automatic invite to the Masters. And
when the prodigy, against all odds, starts tearing up the course at Augusta National,
sponsors are lined up to throw money at him―and his father. But Frank’s entry in the
Masters hinges on maintaining his standing as an amateur. Can he and his secret
adviser―who has his own conflicts―keep Frank’s dad at bay long enough to bring home
the legendary green jacket?
Horse-riding
Racing Manhattan by Terence Blacker
Jay Barton has spent her life on the outside, being overlooked and mocked for her tomboy
ways. All she wants to do is ride her favourite pony, which belongs to her much wealthier
cousin. But then Jay shows a talent for winning the illegal pony races her uncle takes her to,
and he starts to push her to take more and more risks. At 15, Jay decides to run away, to live
the life of a stable hand. Her fortunes are changed when she meets Manhattan: a pedigree
grey racehorse who has used up all her chances and is now neglected and despised. Jay
recognises a fellow misfit. She fights to give Manhattan one last opportunity to show she is
the champion she was born to be. Together, they face a world of prejudice and cruelty and
fight back the only way they know by becoming the best.
Mystery of The Midnight Rider #3 Carolyn Keene
Some equestrians are up to more than horseplay in this third book of the Nancy Drew
Diaries, a fresh approach to a classic series. At the prestigious--and competitive--River
Heights Horse Show, the prizes, which range from money to possible placement on the
Olympic Team, are so highly coveted that anyone from the riders to the owners will do
anything to win...even drug the horses! Who's up to no good? Nancy, Bess and George are
on the case!
One Dollar Horse #1 by Lauren St John
Fifteen-year-old Casey Blue lives in East London’s grimmest tower
block and volunteers at a local riding school, but her dream is to win
the world’s greatest Three-Day Event: The Badminton Horse Trials. When she rescues a
starving, half-wild horse, she’s convinced that the impossible can be made possible. But she
has reckoned without the consequences of her father’s criminal record, or the distraction of a
boy with melty, dark eyes, with whom she refuses to fall in love. Casey learns the hard way that
no matter how high you jump, or how fast you gallop, you can never outrun the past.
The Glory by Lauren St John
A girl on the run from the law. When Alexandra Blakewood is sent to a US boot camp for
out-of-control teenagers, she has only one thought in mind: escape. It seems impossible until
she meets Scout, a palomino mustang as wild as she is. A boy on a mission to save a life Hard
times force Will Greyton to give up on his dreams and face losing the Arab mare he loves.
Then his dad falls ill. An operation might save him but there’s no way to pay for it. Until Will
hears about The Glory, a race with a $250,000 purse. A race they both have to win. A deadly
1,200-mile endurance challenge across the American West. Can Will and Alex survive it
without losing their lives or hearts?
Martial Arts
The Book of The Sword #1 by Carrie Asai
When I was six months old, I dropped from the sky -- the lone survivor of a deadly Japanese
plane crash. The newspapers called me Heaven. I was adopted by a wealthy family in Tokyo,
pampered, and protected. For nineteen years, I thought I was lucky. I'm learning how wrong I
was. They say your life begins on your wedding day. Here's what happened on mine: I lost the
person I love most. I learned that everything I knew about my family was a lie. Now I'm being
hunted. I must fight back or die. My life ended that day. The old Heaven is gone. I AM SAMURAI
GIRL.
The Way of The Warrior #1 by Chris Bradford
Jack Fletcher is shipwrecked off the coast of Japan, his beloved father and the crew lie
slaughtered by ninja pirates. Rescued by a legendary master swordsman and brought under
his wing, Jack begins the gruelling physical and psychological training needed to become a
samurai. Life at Samurai school is fraught with difficulty for Jack who is bullied and treated as
an outcast. With his friend the remarkable, beautiful Akiko at his side and all the courage he
can muster, Jack has to prove himself. Will he be able to face deadly rivals and challenges that
will test him to his very limits?
Motor Sport
Lewis Hamilton by Roy Apps
Ever had a dream -- a dream to win? Lewis had a dream -- to be a Formula 1 racing driver. This
is the story of Lewis's early years and his breakthrough into top-level motorsports.
Stunt Riders by David Orme
Zak and Jed are stunt bike riders. Dan comes to see their show and
wants to be a stunt rider too. Zak and Jed do the exploding coffin trick.
They are the best stunt riders in the world, but what is their secret?
Olympics
An Olympic Dream: The Story of Samia Yusuf Omar by Reinhard Kleist (Graphic Novel)
In 2008, 17-year-old Samia Yusuf Omar stood alongside some of the fastest women in the
world on the start line of the Olympic 200m. Four years later, she boarded a refugee boat to
Europe, risking her life on the waters of the Mediterranean. An Olympic Dream tells the
remarkable story of Samia's attempt to compete at the London Games in 2012. Picturing her
life in Mogadishu, a city ravaged by conflict where the female athlete encountered
discrimination and abuse, Reinhard Kleist reveals the challenges she faced both as a
sportsperson and as a woman. In doing so, he shows why Samia, like so many others, would
choose to flee. Following Samia's journey through Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya to its tragic
conclusion, An Olympic Dream is a forceful statement on Europe's response to the refugee
crisis. But it is also a moving account of a remarkable life, best remembered for a single moment: when an unlikely
Olympian, dressed in knee-length leggings and a baggy t-shirt, finished in last place - and the Bird's Nest stadium
erupted.
Ade Adepitan: A Paralympian's Story by Ade Adepitan
A Paralympic medal winner, commentator and a successful TV presenter, Ade Adepitan has led
a remarkable life. Find out Ade’s story, from growing up in Nigeria with a disability, to
developing his passion for sport, to receiving an MBE, in this inspirational autobiography.
Tumbling by Caela Carter
Five gymnasts. One goal. Grace lives and breathes gymnastics—but no
matter how hard she pushes herself; she can never be perfect enough.
Leigh, Grace’s best friend, has it all: a gymnastics career, a normal high-
school life…and a secret that could ruin everything. Camille wants to please her mom, wants to
please her boyfriend, and most of all, wants to walk away. Wilhelmina was denied her Olympic
dream four years ago, and she won’t let anything stop her again. No matter what. Monica is
terrified. Nobody believes in her—and why should they? By the end of the two days of the U.S.
Olympic Gymnastics Trials, some of these girls will be stars. Some will be going home with nothing. And all will have
their lives changed forever.Kelly Holmes by Andy Croft
Kelly Holmes has battled poverty, injury and depression to become one of the most famous and
successful sportswomen in the world. Gripping insight into an Olympic hero. Barrington Stoke
specialise in books for reluctant, struggling and dyslexic readers.
Kelly Holmes Black White and Gold by Kelly Holmes and Fanny Blake
Kelly Holmes made history when she brought home double gold in the 2004
Olympics, becoming a national hero. She won Sports Personality of the Year,
was given a Damehood, fully backed London's successful 2012 Olympic bid
and became a superstar on the red carpet as well as a much acclaimed and consulted
professional in the sporting world. Now in her staggeringly honest updated autobiography she
reveals the times she fought back tears to battle against injury and win gold, plus the emotional
decision she made to retire from athletics. Including details of her unsettled childhood, trials in
the army and a struggle with self-harm, Kelly's amazing determination carries through to make this inspirational and
powerful autobiography a tale of triumph over adversity and a model for readers of all ages and backgrounds
Tanni Grey-Thompson by John Townsend
This biography of Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson looks at her career as well as her upbringing
and early involvement in athletics.
Rugby
Pride and Penalties by Chris Higgins
Charlotte’s dad wants Charlotte’s brother to be a rugby star. But her brother wants to be a
star of the stage. Charlotte, however, wants to be a rugby player – almost as much as she
needs her father’s approval. In the end she gets both. A great read about girls playing rugby
at a time where the England women’s team are world champions.
Scrum! by Tom Palmer
One Game. Two Codes. Once Choice. Steven's mad for Rugby League.
His dad even reckons he'll go pro one day. Then his mum drops a
bombshell. They're moving down south with her new boyfriend. To
the land of Rugby Union. When the Union team wants Steven and the League scouts come
calling, he faces the hardest choice of his life...
Running
Eat Cake and Run by Jo Cotterill
Hani's spent her whole life training to be a great athlete, just like her grandma. But what if
that's making her ill? Join Hani and her friends as she tackles her Bulimia and tries to figure
out who she wants to be. One thing's for sure: the girls of Hopewell High will take on
everything boarding school can throw at them... together!Night Runner by Alan Combes
Greg wants to win the race. Every night he trains in secret on the school field. But he sees a
spooky shape in the moon light. What is it? Should he run for his life?
Running on Empty by S E Durrant
AJ’s grandfather has always been the one to keep his unusual family
together, so when he dies things start to unravel at the edges. AJ is
worried about his parents, but they don’t really seem to notice. In
order to deal with his grief and to keep his anxiety at bay, AJ does what
he and his grandfather did best: running. Round and round the Olympic Park, aiming for the
nationals, running to escape, AJ only seems to be heading ever closer to disaster. Running on
Empty is a beautiful book about false starts and emotional journeys, with hope as the
ultimate finishing line.
Armistice Runner by Tom Palmer
Lily has lots of worries. She's struggling to compete in her fell-running races and, worse, she's
losing her gran to Alzheimer's. But then she discovers her great-great-grandfather's diaries
from the First World War. Could his incredible story of bravery help her reconnect with her
gran and even give her the inspiration she needs to push through and win?
Now is the Time for Running by Michael Williams
Deo is a great footballer, a fierce protector of his older brother,
Innocent. His brother is easily nervous, easily happy but good at keeping score on the dusty
fields of Zimbabwe where the boys play. Then Mugabe's soldiers come, destroying the only
home the boys have known. Now, Deo has nothing but his brother, and a football stuffed
with billions of worthless dollars. And so, starts their journey to find their father. But with
soldiers everywhere, they have only one chance to cross the border, one chance to escape. In
face of such a challenge, it is Deo's brotherly love that endures, his belief that he will lead
them both to safety. Michael Williams's is a masterful storyteller who pulls you along the
journey of a lifetime. Deo and Innocent's journey is a universal story of hope in the face of
despair, and the search for a better life.
Sailing
The Voyage of the Frog by Gary Paulsen
Slowly, David opened his eyes and looked around the horizon, wincing again with the new
movement. There was nothing sticking above the water as far as he could see. He was alone.
Fourteen-year-old David Alspeth intended only to fulfil his uncle's last wish when he set sail
in the Frog, but when a savage storm slams the tiny sailboat, David is stranded. No wind. No
radio. Little water. Seven cans of food. And the storm is just the first challenge David must
face... An American Association Best Book for Young Adults
Swallows and Amazons #1 by Arthur Ransome
To John, Susan, Titty and Roger, being allowed to use the boat Swallow to go camping on the
island is adventure enough. But the four explorers find themselves under attack from fierce
Amazon Pirates, Nancy and Peggy, who claim the island as their own. The first title in Arthur
Ransome's classic series, originally published in 1930: for children, for grownups, for anyone
captivated by the world of adventure and imagination. Swallows and Amazons introduces
the lovable Walker family, the camp on Wild Cat island, the able-bodied catboat Swallow,
and the two intrepid Amazons, Nancy and Peggy Blackett.Swimming
Fig Swims the World by Lou Abercrombie
Fig Fitzsherbert is good at a lot of things: making lists, playing the piano, advanced mathematics.
But it's never quite enough for her high-flying mother, who every New Year's Day sets Fig an
impossible resolution. So, one year, Fig decides to set her own challenge instead: she's going to
swim her way round the world. There's just one tiny problem... Fig can't swim. Taking it one
length at a time, Fig embarks on the adventure of a lifetime. But with her mother closing in, will
she be able to keep her head above water and complete her challenge? A quirky coming-of-age
story, perfect for fans of Katy Birchall, GEEK GIRL and SUPER AWKWARD.
Boy Underwater by Adam Baron
Boy Underwater is a heart-breaking story about family, friends and secrets. And it’s very, very
funny. Cymbeline (yes, really!) has never been swimming – not ever, not once – so he’s a bit
nervous at the prospect of his first school swimming lesson ever. But how hard could it be?
He’s Googled front crawl and he’s found his dad’s old pair of trunks. He’s totally ready for
this. But he’s not ready for an accident at the pool to reveal a family mystery that turns his
life completely upside down. Only Cym and his friends can solve it because, as usual, the
grown-ups aren’t telling them anything. For the answers you really need, sometimes you
have to go deep...
The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin
It's peculiar how no-words can be better than words. How silence can say more than noise, or
a person's absence can occupy even more space than their presence did. Suzy is 12 when her
best friend, Franny, drowns one summer at the beach. It takes two days for the news to reach
Suzy, and it's not something that she can accept: Franny has always been a strong swimmer,
from the day they met in swim class when they were just 5. How can someone all of a sudden,
just no longer be there? Suzy realizes that they must have got it wrong: Franny didn't just
drown - she was stung by a poisonous jellyfish. This makes a lot more sense to Suzy's logical
mind than a random drowning - cause: a jellyfish sting; effect: death. Suzy's journey to
acceptance is quiet - she resolves to either say something important or say nothing at all. But
it's also bursting with bittersweet humour, heart-breaking honesty, big ideas and small details.
Perfect for fans of Wonder, Counting By 7s and My Sister Lives on the Mantelpiece.
River Boy by Tim Bowler
Jess and her parents take her grandfather back to his childhood home so that he can finish his
last painting River Boy. While out swimming, Jess meets a boy who challenges her to swim down
the river to the sea. Then she discovers that this was one of her
grandfather's childhood ambitions.
The Weight of Water by Sarah Crossan
Armed with a suitcase and an old laundry bag filled with clothes, Kasienka and her mother leave
Poland and head for the UK to find her father. Life is lonely for Kasienka. At home her mother's
heart is breaking and at school Kasienka finds it impossible to make new friends. While the
search continues, Kasienka is kept afloat by William, a boy she meets at the local pool who
understands what it means to lose someone and who swims with Kasienka towards her new
life.Splash by Charli Howard
Molly is in her final year of primary school, with secret dreams of becoming an Olympic
swimmer. Having always lived in the shadow of her manipulative friend, Chloe, Molly finally
has the chance to compete in a regional swimming contest and define herself on her own
terms. But with the pressure of fitting in, and the sudden arrival of her mysterious mum, will
she give up on her dreams for a shot at popularity? A hugely exciting debut with a classic
underdog story, a wonderfully relate-able protagonist, and an important message of
friendship, body positivity, and celebrating who you are.
Dark Water by Cindy Jefferies
Sarah keeps her swimming a secret. She's scared of people teasing her - even though she has a
good chance of getting into the Olympic team! But she can't hide her skill forever. And when
danger strikes, she's the only one who can help.
My Box-Shaped Heart by Rachael Lucas
Holly's mum is a hoarder, and she is fed up with being picked on at school for being weird . . .
and having the wrong clothes . . . and sticking out. All she wants is to be invisible. She loves
swimming, because in the water everyone is the same. Ed goes to the swimming pool to escape
the horrible house he and his mum have been assigned by the women's refuge. In his old life he
had money; was on the swim team; knew who he was and what he wanted. In his old life his
dad hit his mum. Holly is swimming in one direction and Ed's swimming in the other. As their
worlds collide, they find a window into each other's lives - and learn how to meet in the middle.
My Box-Shaped Heart is a powerful story of an unlikely friendship from Rachael Lucas, author of
The State of Grace.
Tennis
A Term at Trebizon by Anne Digby *
Set in a boarding school with a cast of characterful girls. In this, the sixth book in the series,
Rebecca has been picked for the tennis team and has high hopes of being selected. But then
there’s a hoax phone call and a fake fire alarm, and Rebecca’s prospects are suddenly in
danger.
The Extraordinary Life of Serena Williams by Shelina Janmohamed *
The story of a game-changing tennis champion. Serena Williams began playing tennis when
she was just a child and is now an Olympic champion who's won more Grand Slam singles
titles than anyone else. Throughout her life she's battled many things, from life-threatening
illnesses and sports injuries, to sexism and racism in the tennis world. Now she's an icon in
sport, fashion and activism, an inspiration to every young person who has dared to dream
big.Prince of Tennis vol 1by Takeshi Konomi*
This series of popular graphic novels will appeal to fans of Manga. Set in Tokyo, the first
volume features Ryoma, a tennis prodigy who, at 12 years old, is about to enter a
competition for 16-year-olds. But no one knows that he’s the Prince of Tennis and destined
to be the greatest player in the world. If you get hooked on the book, there are a whole 40
titles in the series!
Andy Murray: Tennis Ace by John Murray
This is Andy Murray’s story; from the first time he picked up a tennis racquet, to his Grand
Slam win at the US Open. Did you know that Andy was approached by a major football club?
Or that he used to play doubles with Novak Djokovic? Follow the Scot's rise to stardom in this
brand-new biography of our tennis ace.
Tennis Shoes by Noel Streatfeild*
In this classic children’s book, by one of the UK’s best-loved 20th-century authors, the Heath
children are expected to follow in the footsteps of their father and grandfather and become
top tennis players. But Susan hates the spotlight, Jim prefers to swim, and David wants to
become a singer. Youngest child Nicky could have what it takes, but can she overcome her
rebellious nature to become a champion?
Jan 2021You can also read
