$22.00
10 in stock
10 in stock
‘The kind of book you need to clear a space for, so you can read it in one satisfying gulp.’
Paula Green, POETRY BOX
When a sporty teen’s leg is crushed in a mountain accident, he has to face new challenges one tiny but huge step at a time.
A fast-paced, powerfully told novel for middle-grade readers about limb loss, resilience and becoming excited about the future again.
What if you took a shortcut below some rocks and your entire life came sliding down?
High on the shingle slopes of Pangonui, 14-year-old Ben cuts below a pile of huge, half-buried boulders. All of a sudden there’s a terrible sound, and a massive rock is tumbling towards him.
In the painful weeks that follow a surgery to remove Ben’s shattered lower leg, his mind returns to the mountain, his impatience, that split-second decision. Will anything ever be ‘normal’ again?
One goal keeps him going- he will finish the climb he started.
‘Hill knows how to draw young readers in and keep them on the edge of their seats . . .’
LINDA THOMPSON
Format: Paperback
Pages: 272
Imprint: Penguin Books NZ
Publication date: 03/02/2026
Stepping Up
By David Hill
Review by Genna
Stepping Up is an inspiring story about courage and resilience. After losing his leg in an accident, Ben struggles with frustration and embarrassment while learning how to do everyday things again. With support and determination, he slowly rebuilds his confidence and learns that there isn’t one definition of ‘normal’. This uplifting story from an excellent Kiwi author shows readers that even life-changing challenges can lead to growth and new possibilities.
