It's summertime and what better way to make one's own “splash” than to create the perfect cannonball at a local pool? Such is the dream of this unnamed child narrator. However, first he has to tune out the community's well-intentioned suggestions and muster up the courage to take a leap of faith. Influenced by his wise Nan's advice to “listen to your heart, to your mind, to the pull that's inside. Do it your way,” he creates his own ritual, jumps, and creates the perfect cannonball that makes him “the bomb.”

USBBY Outstanding International Books 2021. Margaret Mahy Book of the Year-Supreme Winner. Winner NZ Book Awards for Children & Young Adults Picture Book Award Winner 2019. Storylines Notable Book Award 2019-Picture Book. IBBY Honour List 2020.

Born in Manawatu, New Zealand and currently based in Wellington, New Zealand, the illustrator is of Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki and Rongowhatkaata descent.

English. Originally published in English as The Bomb by Huia Press in 2018. Published in the United States by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, an imprint of Sourcebooks Kids in 2020.

One splash. One moment. One unforgettable leap into being yourself.

This joy-filled picture book celebrates courage, culture, and the power of doing things your own way.

Everyone has advice on how to make the perfect cannonball—be bigger, louder, tougher. But one determined boy, cheered on by his bold Nan, learns the real secret: trust yourself.

From award-winning New Zealand creators Sacha Cotter and Josh Morgan, Cannonball is a vibrant, rhythmic story that's captivated families and educators around the world. Originally published as The Bomb, this tale of self-expression, cultural pride, and joy has become a favorite read-aloud with emotional depth.

Why families and teachers love Cannonball:

• Builds confidence and emotional resilience
• Introduces Māori language and culture in a meaningful, accessible way
• Bursting with energy, humor, and unforgettable illustrations

Perfect for readers who love:

• Jabari Jumps and The Day You Begin
• Stories about being true to yourself
• Books that celebrate diverse voices and joyful self-expression

Includes a Māori glossary and cultural notes—ideal for diverse bookshelves and classrooms.

"Striking... a message for kids to be true to themselves." — Booklist

"This distinctive story...carries a universal message of listening to one's own heart and being oneself when the world tries to tell you how and who to be...A creative treat." — Kirkus Reviews