All to Play For
What’s inside...
Lewis loves football more than anything else in the world, so he's thrilled when his talent is spotted by a local coach. But there are some big obstacles in his way. His mum doesn't want him to have anything to do with the game because of what happened to his dad on the pitch. And even if Lewis can convince her, the cost of playing is becoming too much for many working-class kids. Acclaimed author Eve Ainsworth tackles the increasing expense of football for working-class kids in this touching story of family, community and beating the odds.
Age
9-12
Length
88 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Lewis
Lewis'S Mum
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt during the big game? Can you relate to their feelings?
What would you have done differently if you were in the main character's shoes?
What does teamwork mean to you, and why do you think it's important in the story?
How did the characters change from the beginning to the end of the book?
What's the biggest lesson you've learned from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use empathetic listening. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and thoughts as they discuss the story.
Connect the story to your child’s personal experiences, whether it’s related to school, sports, or friendship.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios to deepen their understanding and creative thinking.
Discuss the moral and values presented in the book, prompting your child to think about how they apply these lessons in their own life.
Praise your child for their insights and opinions, fostering a positive and open environment for discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: The story illustrates the benefits of working together through the characters' experiences in sports and group activities.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by participating in team sports, group projects at school, and collaborative games, learning the importance of cooperation and mutual support.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the Face of Challenges
Explanation: Characters in 'All to Play For' face and overcome various challenges, showing the value of persistence and courage.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday life by encouraging them to persevere through difficulties, whether in their academics, sports, or personal endeavors.
Example Lesson: Importance of Fair Play
Explanation: The book emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity during competition, teaching kids the value of fair play.
Real-World Application: Children can integrate this lesson by practicing honesty in games and sports, demonstrating integrity in exams and being fair in their interactions with others.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through character interactions, the story portrays how understanding different perspectives leads to better relationships.
Real-World Application: This can be mirrored in a child’s life by encouraging them to listen to their peers, try to understand different viewpoints, and express empathy in their daily interactions.