Kickin' It

'Kickin’ It' is a heart-warming and inspiring story about the rugby-focused life of Richie Mo’unga and the choices he made which took him to international level rugby. What makes this book special is that it looks not only at the choices, but it mentions the cost and sacrifices, without being self-pitying. For students who are interested in rugby, or even aiming high in other sports, it gives suggestions about the mindset required, how one has role models to emulate, what you do when things aren’t going according to plan, and how you might even become a role model for others.

Riley also mentions the importance of Mo’unga’s cultural heritage in his youth and how that and his family shape him. Another strength of this book is the use of illustrations to show the emotional journey of becoming an athlete, adding to the focus of the page. A “Favourite Facts” page and photograph sit at the back, almost like a poster pull-out.

The book feels like it is aimed at senior primary students. However, with the factual, biographical feel of the writing, it could easily be accessed by intermediate students with an interest in rugby, or even younger sports-mad children who have support, perhaps as a class read or other read-aloud.