I am the GREATEST sportsperson in the world. I have never been beaten at anything. I am a natural champion - especially in my own backyard. I am TOOCOOL!
by Phil Kettle
illustrated by Craig Smith
Back by Popular Demand
One of Australia’s most popular book series for primary-aged students is back! Toocool has captured the imagination of children for years, and now these much-loved stories are being re-released for a whole new generation of readers.
About the Stories
Each book introduces readers to Toocool, a cheeky, self-centred character who sees himself as the star of every game. His sports adventures often begin in his backyard but explode into larger-than-life dramas thanks to his wild imagination.
The clever, funny plots are paired with lively illustrations and a comic-book feel - perfect for readers who might usually shy away from books. While especially appealing to boys who “don’t want to be seen reading,” the stories have proven popular with all children who love sports, humour, and fun.
25 titles to explore
One Series. Endless Games. Unlimited Fun.
From backyard battles to big-time sports, Toocool makes every read an adventure.
It's the biggest game of the season. The crowd has footy fever. Topdogs are going to need a hero. Luckily they have TooCool!
It's just another beach patrol for Toocool, the world's greatest lifeguard. Suddenly, danger arrives when a sea creature from the deep stalks Marcy. Can Toocool save the day?
When TooCool discovers he is a champion discus thrower, nobody is safe from his mighty throws.
“My name is Toocool, and I’m a legend!
These are my amazing adventures - with my best mate Spike, my next door neighbour Wong and of course Marcy… plus more!”
Surfing Pro
It's the summer holidays and there's a Surfing Pro to win. Toocool waxes down his twin fin and hits the waves.
Skateboard Ripper
Toocool is a standout on the skateboard. All he needs is a ramp to practice his new trick. Is the world ready for the TC Twist?
Why Toocool works
Children love to pretend and it is within this world of make believe that they can feel security and success. The Toocool series makes use of imagination and allows children to consider their own success.
Instructional Focus:
Literacy - Language Arts
Themes:
Humour - Sports - Fun
Reading Level:
Written at a 2nd grade level, but designed to engage readers in Grades 3–6
Format:
High-interest fiction blended with nonfiction support
Toocool is a classroom must!
These books help turn developing readers into confident readers by offering exciting stories, controlled language, and the kind of humour kids can’t resist.
Testimonials ☟
Loved by Teachers, Trusted by Parents.
Seriously! But don’t take our word for it, here are some things people have to say about the series.
“
Our students absolutely loved the Toocool stories. The books never talk down to readers, but instead invite them into a world of humour, sport, and imagination. From surfing to soccer, cowboys to waterslides, the range of topics captures the interests of many different children across different ages. The action-packed plots, laugh-out-loud moments, and likeable characters make these books ones that kids genuinely want to keep reading - and asking for more.
Jenny M
Librarian, Gladstone QLD
“
What really makes the Toocool series stand out is the unique voice. Written in the first person from Toocool’s perspective, each story feels like you’re inside his larger-than-life imagination. Whether it’s a cricket match, a backyard challenge, or a wild sporting adventure, the humour and clever problem-solving between Toocool and Marcy keep my students laughing and engaged. It’s a brilliant way to draw even the most reluctant readers into the joy of storytelling.
Melissa R
Year 4 Teacher, Ringwood VIC
“
Toocool has quickly become a favourite in our school. The stories are engaging, accessible, and packed with fun, which means they work beautifully as shared reading texts or as independent reads. They’re also versatile enough to appeal to a wide range of reading levels. For any teacher or librarian looking to encourage reading for enjoyment, Toocool is an easy choice; a must-have for every classroom library.
Kelvin N
Year 6 Teacher, Hurstville NSW
Why Teachers & Parents Choose TooCool
Engages Reluctant (Developing) Readers:
Accessible language, fast pacing, and humour keep even hesitant readers hooked.
Shared or Independent Reading:
Great for classroom read-alouds or for students to enjoy on their own.
Sports Themes:
Fill a unique niche for readers who are sports-focused but still developing literacy confidence.
Extra Learning Value:
Each book includes a 12-page non-fiction section with:
Glossary
Quiz
Diagrams
Q&A with Toocool himself
Summary of the game
About the Creators
Phil Kettle
Author
Phil Kettle is the author behind the much-loved Toocool series. What began with eight stories quickly grew into four full series – 34 books in total – bringing readers the adventures of TooCool, Spike, Wong, and Marcy. 25 titles now available to purchase.
Phil spends much of his time visiting schools, encouraging kids to read, write, and discover the fun in storytelling. His playful, energetic style shines through in the Toocool books, where humour, friendship, and everyday adventures take centre stage.
Born in Mildura, Victoria, and raised in the tiny town of Cardross, Phil’s country childhood sparked the imagination and storytelling that he still brings to his writing today.
Craig Smith
Illustrator
Craig has been illustrating books his entire working life, bringing humour, character, and storytelling to every page. His love of stories began in childhood, inspired by comic books, contraptions built in the shed, and the imaginative world of play.
After studying at the South Australian School of Art, Craig began freelancing in 1976 and has since created illustrations for countless children’s books. His work blends traditional tools – pencil, ink, paint – with digital techniques, always with a focus on capturing the heart of a story and the life of its characters.
Now based in Melbourne, Craig is a proud dad and grandad, still passionate about drawing, stories, and helping the next generation discover the joy of making books.
Toocool is all about reading for the fun of it
Helping children shift from screens to stories, sparking imagination, and inspiring them to want to write their own adventures.