The Whole of My World (Nicole Hayes, Woolshed Press)

It’s a rare treat to find a sports-focused YA novel with a female protagonist, and Australian author Nicole Hayes’ moving 1980s-set debut The Whole of My World combines the heady world of AFL with a healthy dose of teenage angst and a subtle exploration of bereavement. Following a recent family tragedy, Shelley is still struggling to cope with her father’s grief, let alone her own. She seeks refuge in AFL, and after finding a kindred spirit at her new school, she is soon regularly attending the training sessions of her beloved local team. When her favourite player Mick takes a shine to her, Shelley can hardly believe her luck. But she can’t escape the pain of what’s happened to her family; it doesn’t help that she’s increasingly confused by her feelings for Mick and his intentions towards her, not to mention the growing awkwardness of her encounters with her old friend Josh. As footy season draws to a close, Shelley must finally confront the guilt she feels over her past. The Whole of My World is a poignant coming-of-age tale with a fresh, original angle. No matter what your feelings are about AFL, this novel is bound to have you cheering by the end.

Carody Culver is a freelance writer and editor and part-time bookseller at Brisbane’s Black Cat Books

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Category: Reviews