Welsh Wonders: Billy - The Powerful Life of Billy Boston

This is the life story of Billy Boston, a professional rugby player born in Cardiff in 1934. He was an ordinary boy with ten siblings, who loved rugby.

However, despite his talent, power and speed, he was ignored by many professional clubs, because he is Black. But once Wigan Rugby Club, in England, employed him, he had the chance to play the game he loved. He never played for Wales, but did play 31 times for Great Britain, and holds the record for tries scored by a Great Britain player. There are now statues of him in Wigan, Wembley Stadium and Cardiff.  

Written by Black author Jessica Dunrod, with pictures by Black illustrator Selom Sunu, this simple story shows that talent and determination can overcome barriers.

This message is lightly given, and even children who know nothing about rugby will take something from this book, whether it’s the unfair treatment of Black people in the past, or the fact that heroes come in all forms, and from anywhere.

Billy’s life is impressive, given the obstacles, and hopefully children reading this will be inspired to work hard, and to follow their passions.