Daniel Ricciardo: F1 Legends

Daniel Ricciardo: F1 Legends by Kit Cross, illustrated by Leigh Hedstrom (Allen & Unwin) Paperback RRP $12.99 ISBN 9781761181351

Reviewed by Karen Hendriks

Kit Cross, a children's writer based in Melbourne, is the author of the Legends series. Leigh Hedstrom is a freelance illustrator from the Sunshine Coast. She loves illustrating because she's able to work across different industries: publishing, education, advertising, and more recently, toy design. Leigh is also the illustrator of the bestselling Stevie Louise series.

This book dives into everything young readers would love to know about Daniel Ricciardo, an Australian F1 driver who has won eight Grand Prix races and finished on the podium 32 times. The biography includes stats, facts and amazing stories about Ricciardo and Formula 1 racing.

Kit Cross has an easy-to-read writing style that makes Daniel Ricciardo: F1 Legends a fun, easy read for young readers. She combines facts with a narrative flair, the text flows and is entertaining so that young readers will want to read and learn about Daniel.

The book introduces Daniel Ricciardo and shares why he is a legend. It’s designed so that you can open the book anywhere and read the pages as you choose or read the whole book from the start. Cross shares Ricciardo’s skills and his history from child to star. I love her flair for giving an insight into Daniel Ricciardo’s personality and his Australian quirks and traits.

The facts about racing cars and tracks and events are fascinating. Because Formula 1 racing is broadcast live all over the world, the information in the book gives a much greater understanding of these events. Did you know that a Formula 1 team can consist of 600 people? A glossary at the back is informative and helpful. The text plays well with the images, and this is another great book in this series.

Leigh Hedstrom’s illustrations are warm, funny, and engaging. She has a talent for character, text layout, and design. Her attention to detail shows and a full-page illustration leads into each chapter. The book is eye-catching and similar in appeal to junior readers as a graphic novel.

Daniel Ricciardo: F1 Legends is book four in the Legends of Sport paperback series for children aged 6-10 years. It is a fun read for children who love sports and outdoor recreation. Teachers will find this series a handy classroom resource. Books like this could inspire children to give different sports a go, too.