Since 2022, as part of a specific program arranged by WestWords, I have been privileged to conduct specific writing workshops with primary and secondary schools in western Sydney and rural/remote NSW. After these workshops, which often span several sessions, students contribute writings which are then published in limited edition books. Yes, they truly can say they are “authors”, or some students at Parramatta High may prefer to say they are “sports journalists” because a specific sports-related course has been conducted at their school.
The video ‘The Windmill’ is a sample of one collaborative exercise I did with the mighty youngsters at Wanaaring Public School in far north-western NSW. The school, in a village of just 80-or-so people, has just a handful of students. I am enormously proud of their achievement in helping me put this little piece together.
Sport connects! Thank you to the Sydney Thunder BBL cricket franchise and star player Chris Green for participating in a “Cric-Lit” event in late 2024 at Parramatta High School. Chris spoke about the importance of reading and what it meant to him when he was a boy. He was brilliant with the students. I was also lucky enough to speak about Spirit of the Warriors and how cricket can build bridges between cultures. We also staged a mock media conference in which the students, as pretend journalists, grilled Chris. Afterwards, the students took part in a Thunder coaching clinic on the school field. It was terrific! Sport is an excellent way to engage many students in literacy practices and cultural awareness. There’s plenty to be explored in this space. Onwards we go!
Spirit of the Warriors, the first book to be published by Crack-A-Story publishing, was released in late 2024. A story for middle-grade readers (but many older people have enjoyed it too) tells the stories of two boys from distinctly different backgrounds. Jack Riordan lives on a drought-affected farm near the make-believe town, Stony Creek. When Ajeet Sharma and his family arrive from India, Jack is confronted with no longer being the star cricketer at his primary school. The narrative ebbs and flows through episodes that capture angst, anger, jealousies, and misunderstandings. (And let’s not forget schoolyard cheek!) Jack and Ajeet eventually learn each has painful secrets that have affected their lives. Will they overcome them? The answers lie in the strength of human spirit.
‘Spirit of the Warriors brings the Australian bush, India, and cricket all to life. It’s about embracing who we are.’
Josh Hazlewood, Australian fast bowler.
“Your writing has such a great capture of energy and character connection and of course the thread of cricket as a way of life.”
Jackie, Teacher/Librarian
“I’ve just finished Spirit of the Warriors and I cried (when the
parents arrived in Sydney for the final). I really, really loved it and will be hand selling it madly.”
Julia, Bookseller
“This is a fantastic story of friendship, family and resilience all woven together through playing sport… It is a triumph of trusting each other, being open to accepting help and experiencing the new things that other cultures can teach us.”
Lamont Books
“Whilst children’s books are notorious for their not-so-subtle moralising, this book is genuinely entertaining.”
Indian Link
“It is my favorite book. Please write more.”
Rohit, 9 years old
“Easy to relate to as both a teacher and bringing back some memories as a young player.”
Anthony, Teacher.
“My son, Teddy just finished the book. He would like you to write another one now please.”
Angus, Father.
“I really LOVE this book. I love cricket. I love the Stony Creek Warriors. My favourite character is Ajeet. I like everyone.”
Saanvi
“I should say that it was very enjoyable, and I could connect with many things you shared about India—paper planes, rain, crowd etc. I am quite awed by the cinematic kind of storytelling. At one point, when Ajeet goes back in thoughts about Wakeeta your depiction of rain, plastic sheet fluttering, etc indeed gave me goosebumps.”
Vijai, Father.
James Knight on cultural conversations through cricket – Indian Link
December Favourites: What we’re loving right now – Indian Link
James Knight – The Gift of Stories | The Cricket Library
