A story of connections (and disconnections). 

When you’re part of the team

the sideline is a place

of refuge

of rest

of reprieve.

But when you’re out of the team

the sideline changes.

Suddenly it’s the loneliest place

of them all.

After a devastating football injury, Blake struggles to cope with life on the sideline. Jolene, a gifted but conflicted hockey player, wants nothing more than for her dad to come home. And soccer-loving refugee, Amed, wants to belong. On the surface, it seems they have nothing in common. Except sport.

Illustrated by the supremely talented Sarah Davis. Available now from good bookstores and online from stores including  Booktopia.

Worse Things has been named an Honour Book in the 2021 Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards and Younger Readers Winner in the 2021 BILBY Awards.  

Teacher’s notes are available here

ISBN: 9781760651657
Imprint: Walker Books Australia
Distributor: Walker Australia-HEDS
Release Date: May 1, 2020
Australian RRP: $14.99

Reviews

Anastasia Gonis, Kids’ Book Review: “Beginning from the covers, this verse novel is stunning in every way.  It is an experience not to be missed.”  Read the rest of the review here.

Rob at Lamont Books: “…beautifully written, and a fast read that will be a favourite of many reluctant teenage readers.” Read the full review here.

And this awesome review is from librarian Dionyy, who delves deeply into the book with some amazing insights.

Chapter One – Read Aloud by the Author

 

Sally Murphy Introduces the Book

And more about the story behind Worse Things.

 

Want to write a poem of your own?  Why not write a Definition poem. You can see my post about these here.