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?

Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 7.

Published by Barrington Stoke 
Out Thursday, 11 September 2025

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