Two children’s books inspired by Leeds Rhinos legends Rob Burrow and Kevin Sinfield's friendship to be released

The two former Leeds Rhinos rugby players have become synonymous with the power of friendship, epitomised in no better way than when Sinfield carried Burrow, who is from Pontefract, out of his wheelchair so they could complete the inaugural Leeds Marathon together.

Sinfield has raised more than £8 million for motor neurone disease (MND) charities by doing a series of marathons following his ex-teammate being diagnosed with the condition in 2019.

The first book, With You Every Step: A Celebration Of Friendship, will be published this year and is set to explore “universal truths and celebrate kindness, empathy, resilience and love”.

UK Illustrators will reproduce the heartfelt words of the two former teammates through black line artwork in the adult and children’s gift book, which will see some of its proceeds donated to help people with MND.England rugby union defence coach

Sinfield said: “I believe the connections and interactions we have with people, especially friends and family, are the most valuable things in life.

“To create a book based around friendship, we hope it will help many parents, not just fathers, to connect with their children and provide an insight into what true friendship is.

“I’m thrilled to be working with Macmillan Children’s Books on this, and I hope children across the world get to experience the friendship Rob and I share.”

A children’s picture book, Try, which will be published during the first half of 2024, will be a story celebrating “affectionate male friendship – showing young readers, but especially young boys, that friendships can be based on love and vulnerability, and that there are many ways to be strong”.

Burrow said: “Whether it’s Pooh and Piglet or Sherlock and Watson, great friendships abound in literature.

“True friends like Kevin are always with their friends, even when times are tough.”

Hannah Ray, publishing director at Macmillan Children’s Books, said: “[Rob and Kevin’s] story of friendship and courage, love and determination has touched millions. I am incredibly proud that we will be publishing this pair of very special books.”

With You Every Step: A Celebration Of Friendship will be published on November 9, 2023.