Giant Heart

Meet Jonah Lomu, one of the greatest All Blacks of all time. His speed and strength on the rugby field made him famous around the world, and his fun and generous personality made him beloved, but all the while he faced a big battle with his health.

“[David Hill’s] stories are wonderful, full of action and are always teaching the reader about some aspect of our amazing country and our people.” Gisborne Herald

A fantastic biographical picture book for young readers about Jonah Lomu, the world-renowned Tongan New Zealander who took the world by storm at the 1995 Rugby World Cup.

When Jonah Lomu was 14, he played a game of touch rubgy with the All Black Eric Rush.

Eric was impressed: he said he had the talent to become good at the game.

Jonah didn't just become good. He became GREAT.

The Tongan New Zealander was the youngest All Black ever to receive a jersey and his performance at the 1995 Rugby World Cup wowed the entire world. For many years, he succeeded at the sport's highest level and was able to do lots of fun and rewarding things such as travel and work overseas, collect sports cars and generously help his family and community, and people who were less fortunate. He was a role model for Pasifika people.

But behind the scenes, Jonah was facing a huge battle. In spite of his fit, strong body, he was getting sicker and sicker.

This is the remarkable true story of a true Kiwi hero who had a giant heart to match his giant size 14 boots, and who remains firmly in the hearts of Pasifika and rugby fans all over the globe.