With the Women’s UFEA Euros set to inspire young female footballers like never before this summer, the excitement can continue off the pitch thanks to Rocky Race, who stars in her second illustrated fiction novel, as part of the fantastic Roy of the Rovers illustrated fiction series.

Game Changer: A Rocky of the Rovers Novel sees Rocky as part of the newly formed Melchester Rovers Women’s team. But whilst the team is going from strength to strength on the pitch, Rocky has lots to deal with in her personal life; from family tragedy to fighting with friends, and even possibly being sent out on loan! Continuing the series’ tradition of tackling larger life problems young readers also have to face alongside footballing action, Game Changer delves deeply into mental health issues, racism in football, and tackling anxiety and pressure.

“Rocky has so much to deal with in this next book, and I think young readers will find some comfort in following a character that has to cope with the same or similar issues they are facing in day-to-day life, and more importantly how to manage or overcome it all.” says award-winning author Tom Palmer, who returns for the eighth book in the Roy of the Rovers illustrated fiction series, and this second Rocky of the Rovers story. “Rocky is such a great role model for young readers; especially young girls who love reading and sports. There are so few novels out there that celebrate young female sporting stars, and that’s why Rocky is so important. All young people need to have relatable role models they can look up to! I love writing Rocky stories, she’s my favourite character to write for, and I truly hope Rocky’s journey and experiences in Game Changer inspire and entertain young readers in equal measure.”

Alongside her new book, in partnership with the FA and National Literacy Trust, Rocky will also be appearing in special daily stories for schools throughout the Women’s 2022 Euros. In these stories, also written by Tom, Rocky will be training alongside England’s Lionesses, as a member of the England Camp during the tournament. Schools and teachers can sign up now to access and download resources for free from WEURO2022Schools.com.

Game Changer: A Rocky of the Rovers Novel (RRP £8.99, Paperback) is out now, and is available to order on Amazon, via the website, or and wherever books are sold.