Are cannonballs a big deal in New Zealand? Judging by this book, it certainly seems like it. Cannonball is a story related by a young Maori boy who wants to achieve the perfect cannonball. But his attempts fail, and everyone has all kinds of (unhelpful) advice. It isn't until his grandmother tells him to be himself and do things his own way that he finally achieves his goal.

The story is sometimes in rhyme and sometimes not. I don't really mind, since the rhyming bits are mostly the kid's internal monologue. There's an interesting glossary at the back of different poses used to jump into the water, complete with names. The illustrations, though, are probably going to be what appeals to most readers. They're colourful and detailed, and show plenty of diversity within the cannonballing community.

I'm still not sure why cannonballs are such a big deal, but they make for an interesting premise. I can't say that I've ever read a book about cannonballing before, let alone one set in New Zealand.

This inspiring book encourages kids to think for themselves, follow their gut-reactions and do things their own way. It administers a perfect life lesson for both the young and the old.

A young boy dreams of doing the perfect cannonball and wants to show everyone his prowess. He only has one problem, he's terrified to jump off the diving board.

Everyone gives him advice on how to make that flawless leap.

"You need more weight!"
"Bigger shorts!"
"More muscles!"
BIGGER SHORTS!"

The boy tries all the gimmicks suggested to him but in doing so discovers it only makes him more uncertain and frightened of not being able to succeed with his idealist task.

He receives coaching from his beloved Nan.
"Listen to your heart, to your mind,
to the pull that's inside. Do it your way."
"My way?"
"Yes baby, all the way!"

Can he muster up the courage inside of him and listen to what his inner voice is dictating to him to make that perfect cannonball splash?

The rhyming text is greatly enriched by emotional, colourful illustrations. They are very well executed and action-packed. The book encourages kids to be themselves, to be brave, to find their confidence and then...... go for it. I highly recommend this book.

A very sweet read about finding your own way to do things even if it is different from everyone else's way. The illustrations are also wonderful. Perfect reading for anytime a little one feels they can't quite do what they would like to.

That was adorable! I loved the text, which rhymed and flowed nicely, and I really enjoyed the illustrations. This is a great story about being yourself and finding confidence. This will be a great one-on-one reading or a read-aloud for 5-8 y/o, especially in the summer.

I loved this book! I loved that it was about bravery, being your own person, talking to others, and overcoming fears. The LGBTQ+ element was great as well.

This book is darling. At first, I just liked it. It's colorful, the rhyme is pretty good, the grandma even gives advice in the form of real diving lingo. But when I got to the end and saw this kid's real character shine, I just loved him. You go, kid. :) This is a fun picture book that will encourage kids to be themselves, be brave, and listen to their own guts. They'll also learn some cool diving terminology and probably smile. Great fun with a good message.

I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for the purpose of review.