About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is searching for their own 'superpower' or needs a boost in self-confidence. It is perfect for the soccer enthusiast who may struggle with traditional long-form reading but thrives on rhythm, energy, and visual excitement. Through a series of high-octane poems, Charles R. Smith Jr. captures the grit and glory of global soccer icons like Messi, Haaland, and Mbappé. Beyond the stats, the book explores themes of perseverance and identity, showing how each player uses their unique traits to succeed. It is an ideal pick for ages 7 to 12, offering a sophisticated look at sportsmanship while remaining highly accessible. Parents will appreciate how the book celebrates diverse global backgrounds and encourages children to find music and art in physical movement.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is secular and celebratory. It briefly touches on the hard work and resilience required to reach the top of the sport, but it avoids heavy trauma or controversy. The focus remains on talent and the joy of the game.
Ideal Reader
A 9-year-old 'reluctant reader' who can recite every Champions League stat but finds traditional chapter books boring. This child needs to see that their passion for sports and their developing literacy can exist in the same space.
