A rhythmic, triumphant and immensely satisfying story about a boy playing soccer with a big ball of string - delightfully illustrated by Craig Smith.

'subtle yet distinctively Australian this book may well prove a serious contender for the status of favourite read aloud and read along book.' Lizzie Whyte AB&PJuly 2004'This clever and witty book is an absolute delight. The simple text is perfect for the very young who will particularly enjoy the repetition and rhyme within the story. And as for Craig Smith's exuberant and enchanting illustrations - sublime!'[4 STARS] Good Reading'The Big Ball of Stringwill charm the socks off the whole family.' Family Circle

Craig Smith's warm, exuberant illustrations have delighted children for over thirty years. Craig has several award-winners to his credit and his titles appear regularly on Children's Choice Award shortlists. Finding humour in domestic, family and school situations, and a fondness forunusual perspectives and energetic characterization are features of his work. His best known titles include the classics Whistle Up the Chimney (winner of a NSW Premier's literary award), Dreadful David, Where's Mum? and Billy the Punk. His lively black and white work features in Bob the Builder and the Elves and the popular series Cabbage Patch, I Hate Fridays and Toocool...Author Ross Mueller is a writer, performer, musician and teacher. His work has been performed at the Malthouse, La Mama, Playbox, the National Theatre (St Kilda), St Martin's Theatre for Young People, the Melbourne Theatre Company and the Melbourne International Festival and