The Selwood Boys: Battle Royale by Tony Wilson

Harper Collins, 2016. ISBN 9780733335457
(Age: 7+) Recommended. The Selwood Boys - Battle Royale is an Aussie story using football playing brothers as the main characters. Tony Wilson has elaborated on the childhood memories of the boys and the football theme runs through the story. Joel wants to play football like his brothers but, for now, has to be happy with being the boundary runner. This doesn't stop him from wanting to play for his favourite team, Geelong, one day. The boys get up to all sorts of mischief - as 4 brothers would - and it is hilarious reading about their antics and made up games. During the weekly football game, Joel and younger brother Scott overhear the selectors talking about their older brothers Adam and Troy. What if only one brother is chosen? Who is the best player? Will Joel get the chance to play football or will he have to wait longer?
This story is great for boys (and anyone else who likes football) and is highly recommended for readers aged 7+. It is full of the antics kids get up to, talks about their adventures and is accompanied by black and white cartoons. The text is descriptive and easy to read. It is full of moments that model positive ways to ignore bullies as well as how to persevere. Most importantly, it is Australian and football themed. Fans of the Selwood brothers will love reading about their childhood.
Kylie Kempster