With the World Cup taking over the television right now, it got me thinking about books out there that deal with soccer. I'm a middle school teacher, and relating anything to the things my kids are into is a must. I'm not a huge soccer fan, but if it will get them reading, then I'm all for it. Here are some soccer books that will hopefully get the ball rolling in your kiddos reading!! (Get it? Ball rolling...haha)
Soccerland: Beth Choat
Goodreads Blurb: That's what Flora Dupre promised her mom before she died of cancer. Flora and her mom had created a place called Soccerland, an escape world in which they'd ignore the beeping cancer machines and just talk soccer. And now Flora's dream of playing for the U.S.A. just might
be coming true. Flora's received the invitation of a lifetime: the chance to try out for the Under-15 U.S. Girls? Soccer Team at the International Sports Academy. But at the academy, the level of talent is like nothing Flora's ever seen before. She struggles to hold her own as she grapples with new positions, injuries, the world's most frustrating coach, and contempt from other players who would love to see her fail. But Flora is a big, strong Dupre girl and she's not going to go down easy.
be coming true. Flora's received the invitation of a lifetime: the chance to try out for the Under-15 U.S. Girls? Soccer Team at the International Sports Academy. But at the academy, the level of talent is like nothing Flora's ever seen before. She struggles to hold her own as she grapples with new positions, injuries, the world's most frustrating coach, and contempt from other players who would love to see her fail. But Flora is a big, strong Dupre girl and she's not going to go down easy.
Blow Out: M.G. Higgins
Goodreads Blurb: It's the start of a new soccer season, and Lacy Sheridan is anxious. She spent the winter recovering from a knee injury that still gives her nightmares. But Lacy is trying not to let fear get the best of her. She needs to bring her A-game if she wants to impress soccer recruiters. Raven McAlister is a tough-as-nails player who plays the same position as Lacy--and she's going after Lacy's starting spot. Will Raven move to sabotage her teammate? And can Lacy ignore the pressure and play the way she used to?
Goal!: The Dream Begins: Robert Rigby
Goodreads Blurb: While growing up on the tough streets of Los Angeles, Santiago's greatest joy is playing soccer. So it is a dream come true when a British scout sees him playing in the park and offers him a trial with one of England's top Premiership clubs Determined to succeed, Santiago leaves behind his struggling family and his modest home, and flies halfway around the world to give it his best shot.
But it's not smooth sailing when Santiago arrives in northern England. Team practices are intense, and in this place where people live and breathe the sport, many seem eager to find fault with the new Latino player from L.A. The pressure even spurs Santiago to keep a secret that could sabotage his performance. There is no doubt that Santiago has skill, flair, and dedication. But does he have the stamina he will need for the English game?
Based on the action-packed movie, Goal! is a gripping tale of trial and tribulation set against the backdrop of the world's most popular and exciting sport.
But it's not smooth sailing when Santiago arrives in northern England. Team practices are intense, and in this place where people live and breathe the sport, many seem eager to find fault with the new Latino player from L.A. The pressure even spurs Santiago to keep a secret that could sabotage his performance. There is no doubt that Santiago has skill, flair, and dedication. But does he have the stamina he will need for the English game?
Based on the action-packed movie, Goal! is a gripping tale of trial and tribulation set against the backdrop of the world's most popular and exciting sport.