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Reviewed by Nat Lagah, Teacher/DP, Pirinoa School, Wairarapa
Opening sentence
Long before sun-up, they're out on the hill, their breath is all steamy, their paws feel the chill.
Tawatawa 1st XV is an excellent story for those rural children who love dogs and also love rugby.

A rhyming book with great rhythm when reading aloud, this story introduces you to a range of different dogs (of all sizes) and assigns them a position on the rugby field based on their attributes. It lends itself to talks on teamwork and how different strengths can work together to create a really fun, enjoyable game for everyone.
Author & Illustrator: Hannah Abrams, Illustrator: Joni Dawson
Publisher: Bateman Books
ISBN: 9781776890873
Format: Paperback
Publication: Sep 2023
Ages: 2- 6 years
Themes: Dogs, sports, rhyming books, teamwork