I’m not interested in writing YA that preaches, but I’m also aware that HOTR is a cautionary tale! Taking PED’s doesn’t work out well for Cris or his friend Adam. Do you want readers to draw a specific conclusion from the way events unfold in the story, or are you aiming to spark a conversation about the issue and highlight consequences of drug use in sporting events for athletes of any age?

Head of the River deals with the contentious issue of drug testing of teenagers at school sporting events. They worry about social media, drinking and if their kids are happy. Their parents might be extraordinary human beings as ex Olympians, but they’re also regular parents. Feeling pressure to succeed can come in many forms! Leni and Cris are on sports scholarships so their home life is very down to earth, they both have part time jobs and they don’t have the flash cars, holidays or parties that their friends do. they also pushed themselves academically or in music, art or socially. I’ve been so pleased that the non-sporty readers of the book have said they relate to the twins rowing experiences in other ways – i.e. These are all fairly common experiences for many young adults. They’re both feeling the strain of year 12 study. I was careful to make Leni and Cristian relatable and realistic characters - so readers wouldn’t feel alienated from their experience, even if they’d never rowed a stroke or actively avoided sports! Cris struggles with his weight and comfort eats, Leni finds it difficult to maintain friendships and wonders if she’s dating the right guy. How did you ensure that the story would still resonate with teens who have no connection with these experiences? Do you think the experiences of Cristian and Leni Popescu do have relevance to the lives of modern teenagers? There are many aspects of Head of the River that take it outside the experience of everyday teens such as Olympian parents, a highly-specialised rowing event, and an elite private school setting.

Kids' Book Review is delighted to welcome author Pip Harry to chat with us about her latest YA novel, Head of the River.

I'll Tell You Mine by Pip Harry