The name says it all in this latest instalment of Random House’s ‘30 Australian’ series. Gregory Rogers (who has illustrated five of the books in the series) is this time paired with Loretta Barnard, who brings her talents to the text. This book is a true almanac for anyone interested in the history of Australian sport, or key aspects and moments that have helped shape our cultural identity. From the early days of the national game, to current household names, 30 Australian Sports Legends covers the ground one would expect from such a title. An entertaining addition is the chapter on sporting animals, tips for training and diet, a list of interesting sporting websites for further study and information about novelty sports. There’s a lot boys will like about this book; from the balance between illustrations and text and the engaging writing style, to the overwhelming mass of facts, details, and statistics. 30 Australian Sports Legends would sit beautifully alongside a ‘Specky Magee’ collection, ‘Toby Jones’ series, or ‘Legends’ set, that all draw upon boys’ natural affinity and interest in sport and sporting icons. 30 Australian Sports Legends will be devoured by preteens and is a must for any school library.

Ben Beaton is a writer and teacher in Perth  

This review from Australian Bookseller & Publisher magazine is reproduced by kind permission of Thorpe-Bowker, a division of R R Bowker LLC. © Copyright 2008, Thorpe-Bowker

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