Sometimes as a school librarian I had to tap into a child’s interests to find a book that may just be the one to turn them into a reader. As a mum my son’s interest was football so every Friday after school we visited the local library and borrowed titles that may tempt him by authors such as Rob Childs. If he wasn’t reading those he was reading Match magazine. Today’s football fans have award winning author Tom Palmer to help them. Not only does he love football himself he knows how to write about it in a way that will hook youngsters into the reading habit. So I was delighted to receive from Barrington Stoke a copy of The Fear, the first in a new football series from Tom and illustrator Robin Boyden. However this is most definitely a book for all children not only those who are confirmed football fans. With thoughtful understanding this story explores themes that are important to all children; self-esteem, friendship and resilience and the importance of considering others.

Kian’s best friend Azeem is desperate for them both to join the local football team. He can’t understand why Kian’s reluctant to get involved as he’s one of the best players on their estate. But a bad experience with a former coach has robbed Kian of all his confidence. He wants to support his friend, but he doesn’t think he can face the pressure of being part of a team again in case he makes another mistake. However the coach at the new team has a more understanding approach and over a period of time he starts to make a difference to Kian. Gradually the boy gains in confidence and begins to understand the importance of conquering his anxiety, not only for his own sake but to help his team mates too.

At under 70 pages this book manages to pack in much in the way of life lessons for young readers. Kian’s anxiety and the manner in which he deals with it is central however through the interactions of others, including Kian’s mum and his new coach Steve, he also grows to appreciate the value of doing things to help others. The resolution is not a magic, happy ever after ending rather a example of learning how to be resilient under pressure and how focusing on others helps you to feel better as well.

The Fear can open up conversations, build empathy, and provide life lessons about teamwork and perseverance. It also includes some exciting football action for footie fans! Published on 11th September by Barrington Stoke who I should like to thank for my review copy. Highly recommended for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 7.

If you are interested in another book about youngsters coping with anxiety I reviewed Eve Ainsworth’s latest title for Barrington Stoke, Jellybean, last week which covers the subject of anxiety based school refusal. Tom Palmer has written several other books based on football including the Roy of the Rovers series and the spin off series featuring Rocky, Roy’s sister both of which should appeal.