Back of the Net

Eve Ainsworth author Luna Valentine illustrator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:HarperCollins Publishers

Published:4th Jul '24

Should be back in stock very soon

Back of the Net cover

an inspiring story about friendship and women’s football

Facing up to fears of bullying, Eva finds the courage to take to the field in this heartwarming tale from acclaimed author Eve Ainsworth.

Facing up to fears of bullying, Eva finds the courage to take to the field in this heartwarming tale from acclaimed author Eve Ainsworth.

Eva’s football skills make her stand out while playing at break-time at school, so her friends can’t understand why she’s reluctant to join them in playing for their local team, the Lightmoor Lionesses.

Horribly bullied at her last school due to a painful skin condition, Eva is terrified that the same thing will happen again if her new friends find out. Her instinct is to hide away, but can she find the courage to take to the field and play the game she loves?

Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.

"Inspirational and uplifting" – The Times

"Sensitively told, contemporary tale about a girl who suffers from psoriasis … Eva’s battle to overcome her fears is brought to life by Luna Valentine’s lively illustrations, and will certainly score a winning goal with football fans and any youngsters facing their own challenges with psoriasis, anxiety and lack of confidence." – Lancashire Post

"An inspiring story of friendship and empathy. It shows readers that even when things are tough, being brave and stepping into difficult situations is much better than running away. It will also help readers to look out for friends who need a little extra support and encouragement. Learning how to react to other people’s difficulties is just as important as dealing with your own. It’s books like these that help children build community and safe spaces for everyone." – Scope for Imagination

“A truly unique book about a condition that I have never seen addressed in a book. I love that this story tackles themes of bullying, low confidence and low self-esteem and aims to kick them out of the field through friendship, love, kindness and courage … Heart-warming and powerful this book shoots and scores." – Mini Travellers, blog

ISBN: 9781800903142

Dimensions: 198mm x 130mm x 10mm

Weight: 160g

96 pages