Eva’s a talented footballer and the girls at her new school are very keen for her to join their local team, the Lightmoor Lionesses. But despite her love of the game, there’s something holding Eva back: she suffers from psoriasis, a skin condition that causes painful flaky red patches. At her old school, she was picked on and bullied because of if, mean girls nastily calling her contagious; now she’s scared that if her new teammates see it, the same will happen again. Does she dare play the game she loves?
The story is a page-turner, an exciting mix of football action and personal challenge. Readers will find themselves urging Eva on and will thoroughly enjoy being in her football boots as she scores some great goals. They’ll also finish the book with insight into what it can be like to live with psoriasis or any life-affecting condition. There’s a positive ending and an afterword has information on famous people with the condition. An immersive and eye-opening read.
Facing up to fears of bullying, Eva finds the courage to take to the field in this heartwarming tale from acclaimed author Eve Ainsworth.
Eva’s football skills make her stand out while playing at break-time at school, so her friends can’t understand why she’s reluctant to join them in playing for their local team, the Lightmoor Lionesses (whom readers will recognise from Finding Her Feet).
Horribly bullied at her last school due to a painful skin condition, Eva is terrified that the same thing will happen again if her new friends find out. Her instinct is to hide away, but can she find the courage to take to the field and play the game she loves?
Sensitively considers the impact of the skin condition psoriasis on confidence and promotes positive messages about kindness and acceptance.
'This sensitively told story, beautifully illustrated by Luna Valentine, is peppered with fascinating football facts as Lily navigates the challenges of anxiety and friendships. The perfect read for young football fans... and to help build confidence in any shy youngster.' - Lancashire Post
Author
About Eve Ainsworth
Eve Ainsworth is a public speaker, creative workshop coordinator and award-winning author who draws from her extensive work with teenagers managing emotional and behavioural issues to write authentic, honest and real novels for young people.
Eve lives in West Sussex with her husband and two children.
