All Blacks-endorsed picture book inspires kids to follow Piri Weepu's example
Former All Black Piri Weepu, as he appears in an illustration in Jared Bell's new picture book for children, Piri's Big All Black Dream.
Kick off your own dreams into reality - just as Piri Weepu did.
The example set by the former All Black is the inspiration behind a new picture book for children.
During the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Wainuiomata-born Jared Bell was among the rippling sea of silver and black that lined the stadium stands.
Kicking off kids' dreams: the front cover of Jared Bell's picture book for children, Piri's Big All Black Dream.
It was the quarter final match. The mighty All Blacks had taken to the field to play Argentina, and Bell watched transfixed.
He said there was one standout player on the paddock that day- Wainuiomata-born and bred Piri Weepu.
Dan Carter was injured and Weepu took on the goal kicking duties. He landed seven penalties, with only a missed conversion. He was named man of the match, and t-shirts with slogans such as "Keep Calm - Piri's On" sold well.
Wainuimata-born author Jared Bell, who now lives and works in London.
"His performance was awe-inspiring. I remember having goose bumps watching that game," Bell said from his home in Twickenham, where he now works as a P.E. specialist at a West London primary school.
"I thought a guy from my hometown, performing as he did on the world rugby stage, was so inspirational," Bell said.
The ex-St Bernard's College student said Weepu's achievements give him a sense of pride for his hometown.
He tried to encapsulate Weepu's never say die attitude in his story.
Piri's Big All Black Dream is about encouraging 3-9 year-olds to work hard to achieve their dreams, no matter their background, he said.
Dreaming, determination, training hard and staying healthy were important skills to teach children, he said.
"Children are our future and if we can provide them with the simple tools and inspiration to achieve - anything is possible for them."
Bell trained at Teachers College in Wellington before moving to London 12 years ago.
It's his first book and has been published by Penguin Random House New Zealand.
The book has been endorsed by Piri Weepu and was an official licensed product of The All Blacks.
Jimmy Diaz id the illustrations, which include Maori art and New Zealand landscapes.
Local booksellers stock it, or go online to http://www.fishpond.co.nz/Books/Piris-Big-All-Black-Dream-Jared-Bell-Jimmy-Diaz/9780143507017
- Hutt News
