The sports mad child. The one who seems to spend every waking moment living and breathing their favourite pastime. We all know one, don’t we?

And there’s nothing wrong with this. In fact, it’s something to be celebrated.

It’s hard to get them to do anything else though, isn’t it? Especially reading.

Cue Venessa Taylor, former teacher and author of Baller Boys.

Venessa is on to something here with her series for young kids. Through the eyes of the unique and diverse characters of the under nines team at All Cultures United, children can learn about team work, empathy, courage, acceptance and so much more.

Baller Boys is hugely identifiable for those sports-mad kids in particular, but will also appeal to any reluctant reader. In my opinion, it is ideal for 7-9-year-olds.

Here’s the blurb:
Shay and Frankie are best friends and football crazy! They eat, sleep and breathe football (even when they’re at school!). They dream about playing football, love a kick-about in the park, watch all the big games on TV… all that’s missing in their lives is the chance to play for a real football team. All Cultures United is the best club around for miles and all the footie fans want to on their team… including Shay and Frankie. Are they good enough to impress Coach Reece at the AC United trials? Can their friendship survive the competitiveness of football? Will they ultimately fulfil their goal to become Baller Boys?

Baller Boys is published by Hashtag Press. You can purchase it from the Hashtag Press book shop, as well as via all other online retailers. Please also see the Baller Boys website for details on the book series, characters and the author.