North Melbourne star Libby Birch launches groundbreaking children’s book

North Melbourne premiership star Libby Birch has officially launched Libby’s Footy Adventures, the first official AFLW children’s picture book

North Melbourne premiership star Libby Birch has officially launched Libby’s Footy Adventures, the first official AFLW children’s picture book, at Arden Street this morning.

As the AFLW begins its historic 10th season, Libby’s Footy Adventures comes as a timely addition to children’s bookshelves.

The book centres on Libby, a young girl keen to learn the game of footy, highlighting themes of courage, friendship, and the joy of trying new things.

It fills a significant gap in children’s literature, offering young girls stories that reflect their own growing involvement in AFLW and sport more broadly.

“The idea sparked when a friend couldn’t find a picture book for a footy-loving young girl that showed girls in the game,” Birch said.

“For all the incredible growth of the AFLW, there was still a gap when it came to young girls seeing themselves represented in sport-themed stories.

“I wanted to create something that not only reflected the reality of girls playing footy but also celebrated it — something that could inspire the next generation to dream big.”

Birch hopes the book’s main message resonates strongly with its young readers. 

“It’s not just about winning — it’s about learning, growing, discovering who you are, and building connections with others. You don’t have to be the fastest or the strongest to belong here,” she said.

“This book shows you can be absolutely who you want to be, and you can be loved for that, particularly in the sport of AFLW.”

The book is heavily influenced by Birch’s journey into football, including a pivotal moment when AFLW legend Daisy Pearce gifted her a pair of boots, essentially “giving her footy”.

This experience reinforced the importance of inclusion and belonging, themes vividly portrayed through the book’s diverse characters.

“The characters are all different — big, small, tall, strong, different body shapes, backgrounds, and personalities. I wanted to pass on that sense of belonging that footy gave me,” Birch said.

“For the first time, young girls can walk into a bookstore and see themselves visually represented playing footy.”

Libby’s Footy Adventures was illustrated by Adelaide-based artist Robin Tatlow-Lord and will be available at bookstores, including Dymocks, Booktopia and Robinsons, plus the Roo Shop at Arden Street from July 29.