Backyard Tennis

Backyard Tennis

by Carl Merriso

Illustrated by Samantha Campbell

Published by Lothian Children's Books (Hachette Australia)
ISBN 9780734421548

Set in the Kimberley region this is a lovely positive story for younger children through learning to play tennis.

They don't have a tennis court, but there is a nice big backyard, ideal for when Chelsea decides she wants to play tennis. Her mum says she will teach her how to play.

BUY THIS BOOK FROM

The aptly illustrated picture book shows you can wear any comfortable clothing, go barefoot if you like and enjoy a game of tennis. The story continues as more children from nearby see them playing with mum's old racquets. Each one asks what the mob are doing and they are all invited to join in.

Within a short space of time, all the local kids are enjoying themselves and mum sets up a table of refreshments. Meanwhile Chelsea and her friends are watching the others play a game as everyone takes turns. So many kids turn up and see the fun they have are having, soon they need to find a bigger space and Chelsea realises she loves playing tennis.

This story has an energising positive feel to it, showing younger readers there are fun things you can learn to do even if you don't have all the right equipment, but you do have the right attitude and a zest for a fun time.

This is independent review, I am not paid by the publishers, so.If you Liked this review - Buy me a coffee

The Author

Carl Merrison is a respected Jaru/Kija man from the Halls Creek area who came WA runner up Australian of the Year - Local Hero in 2016. He has worked for over ten years alongside Aboriginal youth as a mentor and coach. Carl was the winner of the black&write! Fellowship in 2020 for his young readers' series Backyard Sports, and his debut picture book, My Deadly Boots, was shortlisted in the Queensland Literary Awards 2023 and the Speech Pathology Book of the Year Awards 2023.

The illustrator

Samantha Campbell grew up in the Northern Territory and lives in Darwin. She is descended from the Dagoman people from Katherine and as a child lived in remote communities across the Top End. Her first book, Alfred's War, written by Rachel Bin Salleh, was shortlisted for the Premier's Literary Awards and the Speech Pathology Awards. She is currently illustrating her fifth children's book.

This is an independent review, I am not paid by the book publishers,

so.If you Liked this review - Buy me a coffee