Piri’s Big All Black Dream

Piri’s Big All Black Dream

by Jared Bell & Jimmy Diaz

Penguin - $19.99

This is a true story about a young Kiwi boy who dared to dream big. The dream was to become an All Black, and the boy was Piri Weepu.

And, one day, Piri’s All Black rugby dream DID come true.

This funny and affirming picture book is all about young Piri Weepu, way back when he was an unknown, rugby-mad Kiwi boy with a far-off dream to join the All Blacks.

He keeps his eyes on the prize at all times: he plays rugby with his mates every lunchtime; he kicks goal after goal after school; he eats good food to be strong and healthy. At night he closes his eyes and imagines what it will be like when he reaches his goal – how it will feel to pull on an All Black jersey and lace up his All Black boots . . . to stand on the field with his All Black teammates while the world cheers them on . . . to work together with the rest of the team to make their country proud.

A collaboration between first-time authors Jared Bell and Jimmy Diaz – both die-hard All Blacks fans – and Piri Weepu, Piri’s story is an entertaining and inspiring one for all kids, not just those who play rugby. It carries the positive and encouraging message that anyone can aim high in life and become a champion at something they love, one small but determined step at a time. They just have to believe and keep trying.

 More about Jared Bell & Jimmy Diaz

Jared Bell (left) was born in England, but he grew up in Piri’s home town of Wainuiomata, New Zealand, so he considers himself a Kiwi in every other respect. Now a PE and sports teacher at a primary school in West London, all his life Jared has been a huge fan and participator in all kinds of sports – especially rugby and judo.

Jimmy Diaz (right) was born in England and grew up in Argentina and the UK. Art has been Jimmy’s lifelong passion and he has worked for design agencies all over the world. He currently lives and works in Singapore. Rugby has always been a passion in Jimmy’s family – his uncle and cousin both played for the Argentine national team.