Powerful historical novel based on the real-life experiences of footballer Jack Cock during World War I and the little-known history of the Flanders Cup.
It's 1914 and Jack is making his debut as a pro footballer. But his first match is marred by a demonstration demanding that the teams sign up to do their duty in France. Word of the Footballer's Battalion and a cup in Flanders provides a glimmer of hope that Jack can keep his dream of playing for England alive. But as the war drags on, Jack is thrown into a nightmare world he will be lucky to survive.
Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 10+
A Piece of Passion from Editor Emma Baker“We are immensely proud to publish Over the Line. It is a marvelous tribute to the game of football and to a heroic young man. We also believe it is a breakthrough for Tom Palmer as a writer, into a different league.”
To find out more about Over the Line, young soldiers in the trenches and football throughout the war visit www.readingwar.co.uk.This is a new website, from Barrington Stoke, specially dedicated to literacy and World War One. MD Mairi Kidd says “Over the Line is a hugely important title for us both because it marks the centenary of the First World War and because it approaches the conflict through the lens of football – and we know that many young people who are reluctant to read find sport an enticing hook." There is a wealth of information for readers and teachers, with links to further research and a quiz to accompany the book - plus a fascinating introduction to Over the Line from the author, Tom Palmer.
Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 10+
Author
About Tom Palmer
Tom Palmer was a reluctant reader as a child and credits articles about football with getting him into reading. He is now the multi-award-winning author of many books including the acclaimed reboot of the Roy of the Rovers series and the Carnegie Medal longlisted After the War.
In 2019 Tom was awarded the National Literacy Trust’s Ruth Rendell Award in recognition of his significant contribution to literacy work in the UK.
