When you pick up a children’s picture book, once you look past the simple synopsis and delve a little bit deeper, they are almost always more than a just simple story. That’s especially true when sport is involved. Many children’s sports book feature fast-paced action, teamwork and the thrill of competition, but My First Lacrosse Stick, the debut picture book written by Finn Topping with Sam Lawrence and illustrations by Tanya Zeinalova, chooses a gentler, more meaningful path. Written for readers aged 4–8, this 32‑page story blends soft, accessible storytelling with themes of confidence, passion, belonging and discovering what makes you come alive. It’s a thoughtful and uplifting addition to the growing world of sport‑themed children’s books.
The story is centred around Finn. A young boy who often feels invisible, just drifting quietly in the background through his days. One afternoon, while sitting at the back of the classroom and gazing out of the window at nothing in particular, something catches his attention and awakens something within him. He can’t wait for breaktime so that he can get outside to investigate. When the bell finally rings, he races outside and discovers an abandoned lacrosse stick, one that is slightly damaged and clearly forgotten, yet it is instantly fascinating. From that moment, everything shifts. Finn finally has something that has sparked an interest, which is the start of him beginning to feel more grounded, more capable and as he practises each day, his confidence and self-esteem steadily grow.
Overall, My First Lacrosse Stick might appear to be a book about sport, but lacrosse only makes up a small part of the story, at its heart lies a story about finding something you truly care about – whether that’s lacrosse or a different sport, art, music or anything else and how that spark and passion can ignite courage and confidence. It is a good read with a fantastic meaning.
For many readers, lacrosse won’t necessarily be a familiar sport, but that’s exactly why this book stands out. You don’t need any knowledge of the game to enjoy reading this book. Lacrosse is simply a metaphor: a symbol of discovering what makes you feel seen, valued and excited to try.
As for the story itself. Well, it is an easy read, the writing is simple, clear and easy for young readers to follow (it helps that the author is a dedicated lacrosse player who has competed at high levels). His passion for the sport shines through, giving the story an authentic feel about what is being written. Finn’s journey from feeling unnoticed to finding purpose is handled with warmth, showing how a single moment of curiosity can grow into a life‑changing passion as it affects different aspects of your life.
While the story is good and full of meaning, it wouldn’t work as well without the illustrations. Each page features full colour artwork by Tanya Zeinalova, whose expressive, child friendly style perfectly captures the emotional tone of the story. Her illustrations visually guide readers through Finn’s transformation, from invisible boy at the back of the class to the confident child standing in front of the class talking about what he loves, making his feelings visible and helping children understand the story’s message with clarity and empathy.
For me, My First Lacrosse Stick is a genuinely uplifting read, not because of the sport itself, but because of what the story represents: confidence, courage, perseverance and the joy of discovering something new. It also gently reminds young readers that learning a new skill takes time and effort; Finn practises every day to build his abilities and that dedication becomes part of his growth.
While it is about sport on the surface, it is not a book driven by action or competition. Instead, it focuses more on the emotional benefits of finding a passion, something that you care about and the sense of worth it can bring. It’s a story that will inspire any child, not necessarily to find a sport they love but to find their our spark, that something that really grabs their attention and inspires them.
With its heartfelt message, expressive illustrations and warm storytelling, My First Lacrosse Stick is an inspiring debut and a meaningful addition to any child’s bookshelf.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: £9.99 (Paperback) / £2.97 (Kindle)
Available to buy from Amazon here.
