The word 'asthma' is never mentioned in this story, but Bernard's pills and inhaler often are, as well as a pain in his chest. The pain seems to come when he is worried. Dr. Tom tells him to 'try everything' and 'live dangerously', but Ozzie Flatt, who is tall and awkward and not very bright, frightens Bernard. Bernard learns to work hard towards a goal - in this case, running in the school sports day - and he learns to like Ozzie too. An honest picture of an asthmatic child trying hard, not always making it, but doing his best. Short novel; black and white illustrations.