Hayes’ debut novel reads like a perfect kick from the 50 metre line straight through the centre of the goal posts. In The Whole of my World Hayes has encapsulated the rollercoaster ride of adolescent relationships, grief, joy, loss and what it takes to be a football fan.

The whole of Shelley’s world is footy, Aussie rules that are and Glenthorn Football Club has signed a new star player and Shelley needs to believe in him while her personal world is in crisis. Can she open herself up to love when the most important person in her world has passed away?.

This was an amazing read filled with grief, football, young love and finding the strength to move on with life. I think it’s an extremely important book for young Australians to read, especially as it sheds light on the footy culture: the good aspects as well as the bad.

A gripping Young Adult novel with a distinctly Melbourne flavour, this is a must read for anyone ages 13+

-Demi

Random House Books Australia certainly has brought us a gem in Nicole Hayes’ The Whole of my World, described by them as

An unputdownable novel for anyone who’s ever loved or lost, drawn a line between then and now, or kept a secret that wouldn’t stay hidden . . .