Freddie Spector, Fact Collector: Go for Gold by Ashleigh Barton. Illus. by Peter Cheong

Freddie Spector, Fact Collector: Go for Gold by Ashleigh Barton is a witty and delightful story in the new series of Freddie Spector books. Certain to capture the hearts of young readers with its charming protagonist and engaging storyline, 8-year-old Freddie, has a unique hobby of using sticky notes to capture and share his interesting facts with others.

In this novel, everyone at Freddie’s school is excited and preparing for sports day; an event that fills Freddie with dread because he isn’t good at sport. So, to overcome his sports day reservations, Freddie dives into his comfort zone, collecting a plethora of weird and unusual sports facts. These interesting discoveries are interspersed throughout the book, adding an extra layer of fun and education.

Despite some early morning trainings, run by his athletic Auntie Lou and joined by his sporty best friend Theo and sister Henrietta, Freddie doesn’t feel any more confident about his physical abilities. However, the story takes an exciting turn when the sports day medals are stolen. Freddie, though not keen on sports day, understands its significance to his peers and steps up to solve the mystery. He is determined to retrieve the medals, as he is worried the event will be cancelled. But, is being the fastest athlete the only thing that is important on sports day, or are there other elements that are more significant?

Freddie Spector, Fact Collector: Go for Gold is a must-read for children, offering a perfect blend of humour, adventure and life lessons. Barton masterfully weaves a narrative that highlights important themes; teaching readers about perseverance, friendship and the true spirit of sportsmanship, along with Freddie’s fascinating facts, which add an educational twist, making the book both entertaining and informative. Cleverly paired with Peter Cheong’s black and white illustrations, this short novel is sure to resonate with young readers and remind them that everyone has unique strengths to contribute in all situations.

Themes: Sport, Friendship, Sportsmanship, Facts, Perseverance.

Michelle O'Connell