Luna Roo: the Kangaroo Baller by Adam Jackson & Adrian Lloyd, Ill. Jake A Minton

For younger readers who enjoy the thrill of a great game of soccer, this busy and entertaining picture book will provide them with all the thrills and spills of a highly competitive match. When Luna Roo is chosen to be captain of the FC Outback team many of the animals do not think she has the experience or age to defeat the favourites Bush United. But Luna is out to prove them all wrong. After a slow and nervous start in the first half, Luna pulls herself together and the team shows that they have the ability to play well together and be competitive.

The bold and vivid illustrations are full of movement and offer great visual appeal. The expressions on the faces of the players show their passion and drive to win. This is a highly emotionally charged soccer match with much at stake and Luna’s outstanding contribution to the final result allows her to become the hero of the day. The rhyming text is full of action, excitement, bolded key words and exclamation marks! An exciting read that soccer-mad children will enjoy.

Themes: Soccer, Australian Animals, Competition, Humour, Rhyme, Sport.

Kathryn Beilby