My new Underdogs series are dyslexia friendly books,  particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 7.

Out Now! The Fear : Book 1 of The Underdogs

Kian has to face his fears of footballing failure in order to support a friend in this action-packed sports story.

Kian’s best mate Azeem is desperate for them both to join the local football team.

He can’t understand why Kian’s reluctant to as he’s one of the best players on their estate.

But a bad experience with a former coach has robbed Kian of all his confidence. He wants to support his friend, but he doesn’t think he can face the pressure of being part of a team again in case he makes another mistake.  Can Kian overcome the Fear?

“The Fear is exceptional storytelling exploring anxiety & the pressures of working as part of a team. Tom’s stories are always excellent & this will be a game changer for boys to share their feelings” Tom G @checkemoutbooks

ISBN 978-0008695705
BUY Amazon here

Read chapter 1 here

Coming 10 Sept 2026 The Fear : Book 2 of The Underdogs

Navigating life in England, Azeem hopes to share his passion for cricket with his new friends in this action-packed sports story from award-winning author Tom Palmer.

Azeem’s father dreams of one day seeing his son play cricket on an English cricket pitch wearing English cricket whites. Getting to grips with his new life in the UK, Azeem can’t understand why the children on his estate would rather kick a ball than bowl one.

As he anxiously awaits news from his mum and sister, who are stuck in a refugee camp in Pakistan, Azeem distracts himself with teaching his new friends how to play cricket. He takes a chance by inviting some intimidating, older boys in the local park to play with them and soon enough, a team is formed.

But with worry for his family worsening, will Azeem be able to play on his Front Foot?

Pre order Amazon here 

Reviews

“With big bold wording and fun illustrations, this book is really accessible. Whether you’re more confident or finding your feet as a reader, everyone can enjoy this heartfelt book … We all know what it’s like to feel “the fear” and how other people’s actions can have a huge effect on us. Themes of friendship and determination are carefully placed in this powerful, page-turning book.” Juno

“This story of football and conquering one’s fears is accessible and engaging, perfect for sports fans and reluctant readers … Palmer’s gentle and plain-speaking tone shows that feelings of fear and anxiety are not only normal, but manageable and something it is okay to talk about … shows that sporting stories can have powerful emotional themes as well as action and excitement.”  Books for Keeps

“Speaks so honestly and realistically about the pressures of being in a team and of anxiety … it’s also a tale of friendship and the strength you get by opening up to others.” Check ‘Em Out Books, blog

“An absolutely brilliant book for helping young people recognise and cope with anxiety … The Fear highlights the responsibility held by all adults who work with children, building them up and helping them understand themselves.” Scope for Imagination, blog

“Not only does [Tom Palmer] love football himself he knows how to write about it in a way that will hook youngsters into the reading habit … With thoughtful understanding this story explores themes that are important to all children; self-esteem, friendship and resilience and the importance of considering others.”  A Library Lady, blog

Buy a signed and dedicated copy of The Fear, personalised to order from my local independent children’s bookshop “The Thoughtful Spot” here. 

Read my Q&A on The Fear with Check’EmOutBooks here