Over the Line (Conkers)

Tom Palmer’s previous books have been about football and spies, so it’s not a surprise that this is a story about a footballer. Not just a footballer, but also a soldier in the First World War. Add that to the fact that this a true story based on a real person, Jack Cock, the story takes on a whole new depth and meaning.The realism of his story fighting in the trenches, not only against the German enemy but against mud, rats and fear is not escaped.His journey surviving the war to score the first goal for England after the war, is a very inspirational and emotional one.I think this is Toms best work to date and a must read to help young people of today understand what it was like during the War.For more information about the book and Jack Cock you can visit[...]

As the teacher of a Year Six class, I found this a really fantastic book for engaging all children - both girls and boys. Whilst the book is about football, fighting and war, it is also a way of raising awareness of those people who gave their lives selflessly for us all, which the girls in my class found fascinating.One child from my class said, "My favourite part of the book was the part at the end when Jack Cock met back up with Jack Woodward, because it was really emotional to see them together again after everything they had been through together." Another child agreed that the end of the book was their favourite part - SPOILER ALERT - especially the moment when Jack scores a goal for his country.Another child commented, "My favourite part was when Jack Cock went back to rescue Percy Summers instead of rescuing himself, even though it took him three hours longer to get back to safety than everybody else; this showed great bravery."One boy stated, "The book is an educational, but fun to read novel. Most educational books can be boring, but this one taught me a lot and kept me entertained."Some parts are really heartbreaking; others are inspiring.The whole class are very much looking forward to reading more of Tom Palmer's novels...

Bought for a dyslexic 10 year old. Printed on yellow paper with the vocabulary of an eight year old. It was immediately grabbed by my grandson who is not dyslexic but a reluctant reader. What 10 year old boy doesn't want to read about football or war and this book combines both.

Very good, five stars, says (10yr) son. It had lots of twists and interesting characters. Nice plot.

Bought for my son as a present, it's a brilliant kids book. Tom Palmer is a fantastic kids writer.

My ten year old girl loves this book.