Bobby Bains Ain’t Playing
Report an issue
Tell us what's wrong and we'll take a look.
Thanks – we got it. We'll review and follow up if needed.
When the girls are banned from the five-a-side tournament, young Sikh footballer Bobby Bains rallies his teammates to make a stand in this uplifting tale of solidarity from Bali Rai.
Football-mad Bobby and his friend Maisie are excited to hear about a new five-a-side tournament – especially as it’s happening on Diwali, or Bandi Chhor Divas as Sikhs call it!
After getting their teams together, however, Maisie is told she’s not allowed to take part. Hers is the only girls’ side to have entered and they’re not allowed to play against the boys. How unfair is that?
Bobby can’t believe it, and he comes up with a plan to make a stand. But will he be able to convince anyone to join him?
Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.
Bali Rai
A leading voice in UK children's and teen fiction, Bali Rai is a passionate advocate of reading for pleasure and promoting literacy and empathy. Born in Leicester, his writing is inspired by his working-class, multicultural background. Bobby Bains Plays a Blinder was shortlisted for the Children's Sports Book of the Year Award and the Diverse Book Awards 2025.
More by Bali Rai
Why Readwise Books?
Readwise Books is an ebook & audiobook platform that automatically logs how much you and your friends read, making it fun and easy to read more. Learn more →