It is so fantastic to see a brand new sport book which is celebrating RUGBY! There are so many fantastic football books to tempt readers but so few about other sports. And this one has the bonus of a foreword and gameplay tips from former All Black, Conrad Smith.

‘The first in a series of chapter books all about sports, with cartoons, player tips, irreverent explanations, fascinating facts, and funny stories! The aim is to teach kids about sports, but with a light touch that highlights the spirit of the game as well as the rules. Launching alongside this title is the Stupendous Sports website (www.stupendoussports.com), which promotes the fun side of sports for kids, with giveaways, special offers, and guest appearances from sporting stars.’

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This title is a comprehensive guide to the game with odd-shaped balls. It starts by introducing readers to the game’s history, then explains key positions, match play, set pieces, and explores what the future may hold for rugby union. Even as someone who is not necessarily a fan of the game, I really enjoyed learning more and reading all the fascinating facts. The pro tips from Conrad gave great insights into the skills and mindset needed to make it as a professional.

The combination of facts, jokes, and illustrations makes this a hugely engaging title which will hook in existing rugby fans and surely help create new ones. The whisper in the book shop is that there are more titles planned featuring football and possibly even cricket…. I shall be eagerly awaiting the next title in this fab series for readers aged 8+

Library Girl.

*Many thanks to Firefly Press for inviting me to be a part of this blog tour*