Back of the Net by Eve Ainsworth

Back of the Net by Eve Ainsworth is her second emapthy-filled story about the brilliant girls’ football team, the Lightmoor Lionesses. Eva is a fantastic footballer who suffers from psoriasis – a painful, itchy and embarrassing skin condition. After being bullied in her previous team, she’s terrified to try out for the Lionesses. What if they notice her skin and the unkndness starts up all over again?

When Eva finally works up the courage to play in short sleeves and let others see her irritated skin, she faces nasty comments and humiliation from the other team. Thankfully, her friends understand and help her to realise everyone has something they’re dealing with. Whether it’s a scar, a stutter or something you can’t immediately see, there are ways to work through challenges and still be your very best.

Back of the Net is an inspiring story of friendship and empathy. It shows readers that even when things are tough, being brave and stepping into difficult situations is much better than running away. It will also help readers to look out for friends who need a little extra support and encouragement. Learning how to react to other people’s difficulties is just as important as dealing with your own. It’s books like these that help children build community and safe spaces for everyone.

Barrington Stoke can always be relied on to create entertaining, meaningful, empathy-filled stories that are accessible and empowering for readers. With dyslexia-friendly font, spacing and page tint, everyone can enjoy these books. The manageable length and carefully chosen vocabulary encourages success and brings children back for more.

Find out more about Eve Ainsworth’s other fantastic football story, Finding Her Feet, in the post below: