Racing Start
Joe Astley is thirteen, undersized and useless at football. His father, an ex-professional footballer, would like Joe to follow in his footsteps but Joe wants to become a racing cyclist. He needs to prove to his dad that he is good at cycling and, at the same time, defeat the school bully.
Joe’s life turns around when he meets Sid, coach to the local cycling club. With a little help and a lot of determination Joe sets out to achieve his dreams but it’s not easy with the school bully as his biggest rival.
This novel is as fast-paced as the racing, and packed with insights into starting out in the cycling world.
Racing Start is available at Amazon in e-book and paperback format.
This book held me from first page to last. Written in simple language that’s easy for children and young people to follow, it also holds valuable lessons for parents about the undermining effects of expectations.
The story moves along at a cracking pace, full of achievements and set-backs. It also tackles complex issues of self-worth, bullying, and the appalling short-sightedness of some teachers who have favourite sports and little time or patience with children who don’t fit a mould. It shows how having money does not automatically confer self-esteem, and that all the latest kit won’t produce a better sportsman.
Best of all, the pride Joe feels in pushing through set-backs and pain to be the best he can, and doing so honestly, offers a terrific example for young people coping with the trials of growing u
jane pollard
Don’t Make Me Laugh
A collection of short stories compiled by David Kitchen to appeal to all children. Its aim is to encourage and motivate readers and help meet literacy needs.
A collection of stories which include major authors such as Anne Fine, Vivien Alcock, Penelope Lively, Michael Rosen and Roger McGough.
Lynne Hackles’ short story, ‘Dog’s Dinner,’ is part of this short story collection.
Don't Make Me Laugh is available at Amazon in paperback format.