Young Pele: Soccer's First Star

Young Pele had an early life goal to succeed in soccer. He played in neighborhood soccer games and tried to learn from his father's dream and injury. In school he was a distracted learner who was frequently punished and eventually skipped school altogether. He guided his street team to success with a campaign for team uniforms. His teammates gave him the nickname Pele. When his team won the big tournament game, his mother finally recognized his gift with praise. There is an author's note that briefly describes his adult life as a world-famous professional soccer player. This book is so well done that it is in my personal collection!

Recommended by Christy Pierce, Librarian.