Sally Gardner grew up and still lives in London. Being dyslexic, she did not learn to read or write until she was fourteen and had been thrown out of several schools, labeled unteachable, and sent to a school for maladjusted children. Despite this, she gained a degree with highest honors at a leading London art college, followed by a scholarship to a theater school, and then went on to become a very successful costume designer, working on some notable productions.
After the births of twin daughters and a son, she started first to illustrate and then to write picture books and chapter books, usually with fairytale- or otherwise magical subject matter. She has been called 'an idiosyncratic genius' by London’s Sunday Times.
Timmy Twinkle dreams of becoming a top footballer. The only problem is since his mum ran off to Spain and left him with Gramps, Timmy has been finding comfort in cake, and is, when all is said and done, a bit of a chubby chap. He is bullied at school and despite being on the football team is always left on the bench . One day however his Gramps tells him the story of his Great-Uncle Vern, who was an amazing footballer and Timmy discovers he has similar magic in his own feet. With the help of Gramps and Gramps' fitness fanatic friend May, Timmy starts to show everyone what he is made of.
A fantastic story about a child overcoming feelings of uselessness and showing everyone that he can be the best. The story is told in short chapters and would be a great book for early KS2 or advanced KS1 children.
It's an amazing book for children aged 5-10. The story focuses on a chubby boy called Timmy Twinkle who transforms his life with the help of his Aunt May, Grandpa and a mysterious Great Great uncle, who appears at different points to give Timmy the confidence he needs. Eventually with help from his friends and family, he gets chosen to play for Arsenal: Unbelievable! 🏆 ⚽ 👟
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.