First Tackle

First Tackle by Ricki-Lee Arnold (Wombat) PB RRP $14.99 ISBN 9781761110818

Reviewed by Nikki M Heath

Dani’s passion is rugby league, but her protective grandmother and father refuse to let her play. With the help of older brother Jimmy and some inspiration from an older girl at the club - and despite the hindrance of her troublesome twin little brothers - can Dani make her sporting dream come true?

Unlike some sport-themed books we’ve reviewed, this one really needs an appreciation of rugby league to fully appreciate what’s going on. It has a clear agenda and pushes its ‘Girls with Game’ series message in an unabashed - sometimes slightly too overt - manner.

There are some attempts to introduce sub-plot, and enjoyable warmth in the family dynamic, but this book really does just do what it says on the tin. It is a fun, easy read and will resonate with its core target audience.

Rugby league fans aged 7 to 10 will have a ball (pun intended) ripping through this fast-paced story. While it will obviously appeal more to girls, boys will also enjoy the fun family antics - and might gain a bit of insight while they’re at it.