Howzat Pat! Cricket champs by Pat Cummins, Dave Hartley and Serena Geddes

Cricket fans will certainly feel on the winning team with the latest book Cricket Champs from the Howzat Pat! series. This book is a fantastic read - jam packed full of energy, inspiration and authenticity. Cleverly co-written by current Australian cricket captain, Pat Cummins and Dave Hartley with awesome accompanying illustrations by Serena Geddes, this book has it all. The fourth book in the series, it combines sport, friendship, teamwork and resilience, in a way that will strongly appeal to young independent readers who love the game of cricket.

The story follows Pat and his close friends Beth and Prav as they prepare for an important cricket match and the potential to represent their state. While they are determined to play their best and enjoy the game, they need to rise above the ongoing bad sportsmanship of fellow cricketer, Levi. Can Pat and his friends not only win each game, but win over the bully who seems to enjoy antagonising them?

This is one of the book’s greatest strengths, highlighting the true spirit of sport. The story explores teamwork, perseverance, fairness and friendship. Young readers see how Pat, Beth and Prav learn to stay positive, work together and rise above mean behaviour, showing that winning with integrity is far more important than winning at any cost. This positive message makes the book both entertaining and meaningful.

Cummins and Hartley bring real-life insight into what it feels like to play the game at different levels - from club matches to bigger dreams. Also intertwining the love of Country, through Beth’s Aunty Josephine; wildlife, nature and beauty are explored.  

The book’s layout thoughtfully supports developing readers. With well-spaced line width, easy-to-follow text and occasional extra-large words for emphasis, the design helps with tracking and builds reading confidence. This thoughtful presentation makes it a perfect choice for children ready to move into longer chapter books.

Overall, Cricket Champs is a fun, motivating and accessible read that celebrates friendship, resilience and the joy of playing fair. Young readers will finish the book cheering - and potentially dreaming of their own cricketing adventures.

Themes: Cricket, Friendship, Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Country, Fairness, Empathy.

Michelle O'Connell