*Shortlisted

Review by Reiss, Claremont High School, Harrow, Middlesex
During the time the book was set, the Romani people faced many challenges compared to others. So, to see the young Lijah control his anger and find a way to succeed in the world of football even with people wanting him to fail was interesting and enjoyable to read. The character of Lijah was remarkably interesting as his dedication and his persistence to become a footballer was heartwarming and entertaining. The plot was light-hearted and exciting as the book has many different twists and turns. Also, the style of the authors writing was engrossing and fascinating.

What stood out for me in the book was the kindness of their Uncle Jack who was committed to helping Lijah and his brother Henry in whatever they needed. The kindness of their Uncle Jack was the reason that they prospered. I would 100% recommend this book to others as even though if they do not enjoy football, it had a gripping story and a heartfelt feeling which anyone would find exciting. I enjoyed the Romani phrases and words. As the use of the Romani dialect helped me understand the way the characters feel and think. This small detail was very crucial in the book.

I did not know much about that time and the different types of people during that time. This book not only was extremely enjoyable to read but helped me learn about a more historical side of that time.

This book has inspired me to learn more about the Romani people and the history of their type of people. Also, this book has made me have a different view of what people faced during that time and it has made me want to find out more about the Romani English footballer Rab Howell who inspired the main character in the book to have a love for football.

Review by Daniel, Mordiford CE Primary School Hereford
This is the story of Lijah, a boy who lives in a travelling community. His mum wants him to go to school but his dad doesn’t. Lijah discovers football and becomes passionate about it. Though his parents don’t agree, Lijah’s uncle encourages him to keep playing.

I didn’t like Dad. He tried to stop his son from following his dreams. It was a dilemma for Lijah – he had to choose between his passion for football or to give up his dreams and stay with his family. I learned a lot about the Romani community and how they live their lives, and I learnt about Rab Howell, the famous Romani footballer who inspired Lijah and what a footballing hero he was in real life.

Anyone who loves football will love this book!

Review by Ahnaf, Moorside primary school, Lancaster
In this amazing book, the character I found most interesting was Joe, as he was mean to Lijah in the beginning of his school time but became friends with him later. But the interesting bit is that his dad knew Rab Howell and it was never said in the book who Joe’s dad was. I did not like the manager of Lijah’s football team at the end because he was strict and seemed mean. I learnt where Travellers actually came from and what mistake people had made calling them gypsies. What made the time this book was set in interesting was that, even though the era it was set in was pretty evolved already, it still did not have loads of the stuff we have today. The plot was exciting, thought provoking and serious all at the same time. The thing that stands out the most to me is how hard Lijah had to work to play and prove himself worthy of football while others have it easy. Lastly, I would recommend it to people who like inspirational books.