What's Wrong with Billy's Balls?
What's Wrong with Billy's Balls?
What's Wrong with Billy's Balls? is a children's book that tells the story of Billy, a young golfer who has been practicing every day to be just like Mark, the course professional. Billy enters his first tournament with his friend Jack and gets off to a rough start when his lucky golf balls begin to change in size and shape.
Billy continues to play despite the issues he is having with his lucky golf balls. It is not until Jack convinces Billy to speak with Mark that he seeks help. After visiting Mark, Billy and Jack return to the course and finish their first tournament.
This children's book teaches the young reader that it is OK to ask for help when things are feeling out of the ordinary. Billy's story was written for the children of testicular cancer survivors, who are at a slightly elevated risk and should be vigilant in their self-exams. The message also applies to a wider audience who should also speak up if they notice anything abnormal with their bodies.
About the Authors and Illustrators
As a testicular cancer survivor passionate about raising awareness of the disease, Steven Crocker co-authored What’s Wrong with Billy’s Balls? with his wife Ashley, a pediatric nurse. Combining Ashley’s love for her young patients with Steven’s passion for raising awareness of the importance of early detection of testicular cancer, this book was written to plant the seed for familiarizing oneself with oneself at an early age, destigmatizing boys and young men from asking for help when they suspect that it is needed.
The illustrations and watercolor were done by Steven’s brother and his wife. Blake Crocker and Taia Blizard met in Richmond, Virginia, where they grew into themselves as artists and creatives. After living in Richmond for several years, they moved to Brooklyn, New York. In the book, there’s a special “Easter egg” honoring Blake and Taia’s late dog, Presley, who passed away after a battle with cancer in May 2024.
For every 10 copies purchased, receive 1 free book (ex. 10 + 1, 20 + 2)!
This is a great option for healthcare institutions or for parents who want to share with the children of friends and family.
This book is printed on-demand, therefore stock on hand may be limited. This may affect shipping time. Contact info@testescancer.org if you have any questions regarding shipping.
Here’s what people are saying
“This book will serve as an excellent resource for fathers and families to discuss the importance of self-exam with their children to aid in the early recognition of testicular cancer!”
“Loved it. Was all brilliant and will be great for kids and parents.”
“As a survivor, it is now my job to make those around me aware of testicular cancer…especially my son. How do you break it to a kid that “daddy is missing a testicle” or how I discovered it? This book is the perfect way to bring up the conversation and start awareness young. Ensuring that kids know that it’s okay to ask a parent or doctor if they think something is wrong. That is how to tackle testicular cancer!”
““Whats Wrong With Billys Balls” sends a clear and important message to the reader to pay attention to changes that are having negative effects on them, and how beneficial it is to have said changes looked at by a professional sooner rather than later for the best possible outcome.”
“This book is wonderful that not only entertains but also educates. I found it to be a creative way to address a serious health topic, especially for children of testicular cancer survivors, but also for a broader audience. The illustrations are cute, and the message is powerful, making it a valuable addition to any child’s bookshelf. This book combines fun and learning, helping kids understand that it’s always okay to ask for help.”
“As a middle age man with boys, this book taught me the importance of early testicular cancer detection. It taught us what to look for, to seek out professional help, and how both of those will help you win in the end. Great book!”
“This testicular cancer awareness book teaches children about the importance of self-examination and knowing when to ask for help. The message is about early detection. The authors take on a taboo subject through metaphors that make it easier to talk about. This is a perfect way to broach a difficult subject with children.”
“This book is an excellent source to help spread awareness about the importance of asking for help if something doesn’t seem right. Learning that at an early age can make a big difference and catch things early before it may be too late. Love the illustrations of the book so much too!!”
“This book is about spreading awareness about testicular cancer! It shows the importance of early detection! Great story and great illustrations on such an important topic!!! ♥️”
“I have to say that the way this book lightly touches such a heavy subject is just perfect, it goes into enough detail to really make you think... maybe I should get checked. The author has done a fantastic job on this book and I’d recommend it to any guy.”
“I can’t even express how much I love this!!! Thank you for the ability to teach boys.”
“I highly recommend this book for its heartwarming story, beautiful illustrations, and the crucial message it imparts.”