[CLOSED] Win a copy of Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams

Win a copy of Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams - Whatever happened to our heroes? Well, if we take a leaf out of David Riley’s books, we’ll find they’re closer than we think! To help stop young boys (in particular) falling behind in the literacy statistics, the teacher from nearby Tangaroa College penned a series of books. He says inspiration struck soon after the Kiwis won the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. Since then, David has published five books featuring sportspeople with local connections. Two (Samoan Heroes and We Are the Rock) are collections of shorter profiles – featuring the like of Frank Bunce, Tana Umaga and David Tua – while the others (Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams, Jammin’ with Steven Adams, and Steppin’ with Benji Marshall) focus on individual sports stars. Because his subjects are well known, and the example they set, so significant, the stories of Sonny, Benji, Steven and others have been well received. “The books are designed to inspire young people. I talk about challenges sportspeople have faced, how they overcame them, and how (sometimes) they failed. I don’t look at ‘failures’ in sensationalising ways – such as with SBW’s conviction for drunk driving – instead I try to show how these athletes learnt from their experiences.” By taking his subjects out of the media spotlight, and portraying them using language, younger readers appreciate the valuable life lessons that are on offer. “It’s good for them to learn how these achievers are just normal people who have dreams and challenges, successes and failures. Although David’s books are available through schools and libraries, they can also be purchased at readingwarrior.com, from Wheelers Books and select Paper Plus stores. Rural Living has a copy of Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams up for grabs. To be in to win, simply complete the form below. One entry per person/email address; Winner notified by phone or email. Entries close May 31, 2015.

This competition closes on Sunday, 31 May 2015 at 11:59 PM AEST.