by Cathy Jenkins
with illustrations by Monique Steele 
 
Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2025
 
9-year-old Jac has his very own, home-grown hero, Dad. And, within his tight knit group of friends he also has bestie, Zac. And, he’s finally getting to play football for the local team. But when Jac’s dad realises that this means his son will be spending more time, not just with Zac, but Zac’s family, his behaviour becomes…bizarre. Slowly Jac realises that his ‘hero’ has been raised on racist ideas and is perpetuating them still. A heads on, and yet also a very subtle and layered look at intergenerational racism. An ideal classroom read, cleverly opening up thinking and talking points which will last well beyond the text. The rather ‘static’ front cover also belies a quick-paced, dialogue-rich, read with relatable ‘living’ characters which would draw in even the most disengaged reader.   Includes 3 pages of super activities. ranging from discussion points to writing exercises to suggested areas for further research. By debut author, Cathy Jenkins, a secondary school English teacher based in Swansea. Published by small indie Welsh publisher, Graffeg. Age 7-11, Paperback 106pp
 
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