"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.