Cricket, I just love it! It really is the best. Batting, bowling, fielding, Twenty20 or a test.
For any kid who’s ever hit a six over the back fence or dreamed of making a century at the MCG, Cricket, I Just Love It! is a love song to Australia’s most iconic summer sport for readers aged 4+.
From classic catches to backyard matches, this picture book is a joyful and heartfelt celebration of all things cricket, written by Alister Nicholson.
Nicholson is one of Australia’s best-known radio and TV sports commentators. He’s a leading voice on ABC Sport’s AFL and cricket coverage and has commentated many of the biggest sporting events in Australia and overseas. Nicholson’s expertise and genuine love for this Aussie summer sport makes him the perfect author for this book.
Admittedly, cricket isn’t my area of expertise, but this picture book has given me a newfound appreciation for the sport. Cricket, I Just Love It! emphasises that this is a sport for anyone: girls and boys, young and old, big and small. Nicholson shows this by giving each character/player a chance to voice why they love cricket, demonstrating teamwork and inclusivity.
Tom Jellett has illustrated a number of books for children including My Dad Thinks He’s Funny by Katrina Germein, and Why I Love Footy by Michael Wagner. In Cricket, I Just Love It! Jellett illustrates iconic Australian settings such as a school playground, lush cricket fields, a home backyard, and a sandy beach. Paired with Nicholson’s storytelling, Jellett emphasises the book’s message that cricket can be played by anyone, anywhere.
Inclusivity is at the forefront of this book. Like myself, you can be the ultimate cricket newbie but you won’t skip a beat while reading this book. At the beginning of the book, there’s a glossary of cricket terms with easy-to-understand explanations. Throughout, there’s a cricket team on the field with each of their positions stated. And once you’ve read the sporty story, there are some fun cricket facts to end the book.
Cricket, I Just Love It! has taught me about cricket in a fun and digestible way. Since reading the book, I’ve gone outside to bowl and bat in my backyard, and I can attest: it really is a game for everyone.
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