Willa and Woof - Let the Games Begin

'Let the Games Begin' is the fifth book in this series about Willa and her dog, Woof.

Willa has a gymnastics tournament to practice for and an upcoming competition hosted by the Sunset Views Retirement Village that pits the kids against the oldies. Willa is helping to organise this event but an older kid does not want Willa on the committee and starts to bully her. Willa also wonders how she’ll be able to train for the gymnastics competition with only some homemade equipment to practice on.

Willa is a delightful character, full of exuberance, and when life throws her curveballs such as an injury, she draws on support from her best friend, Tae, her best friend and her special friend Frank from the retirement home and also her furry friend, Woof. Frank and Willa share a special bond despite the age difference. They understand each other and can share their grumbles and happier moments.

The narrative keeps the reader and listener interested and is easy to follow. The illustrations are in black and white and sprinkled throughout the story. The book would make a great read-aloud as the chapter endings will have the listeners wanting more. It’s 128 pages, with short 10 page chapters.

This chapter book works nicely as a bridge towards gaining confidence for young readers to pick up more complicated and longer books.