For the Love of Soccer! the Story of Pelé - (World of Reading) (Paperback)

About the Book

"Originally published in hardcover ... May 2010."--Colophon.

Book Synopsis

Written by soccer legend Pelé, this heart-warming story celebrates what he loves most about the game. This easy-to-read story also includes biographical information about Pelé's childhood and sports career.

What does the world's greatest soccer player love about soccer? The same things that you do! Speed, teamwork, dribbling, passing, taking your best shot--and making a G-O-O-A-A-A-L!

Award-winning artist Frank Morrison sets up the play by weaving together two dynamic visual stories: Pelé's inspiring rise to fame and a young athlete's efforts to follow in his hero's speedy footsteps. Together, words and pictures deliver all the fun and excitement of a closely matched game. World Cup fans, come play!

This Level 2 reader encourages developing readers to sound out loud and includes more complex stories with simple vocabulary.

A Spanish edition, Por amor al fútbol. La historia de Pelé, is also available.

Review Quotes

Praise for the picture book edition of For the Love of Soccer!

"New soccer fans will welcome this addition."--School Library Journal

"The legendary soccer player composes a stirring ode to his beloved sport. A must-share for soccer enthusiasts of any age."--Kirkus Reviews

"This exuberant double introduction to the world's most popular sport and to one of its most enduringly popular figures."--Booklist

About the Author

Pelé joined his first professional team at age 15, and went on to a dazzling career. He became the top scorer in the history of the Brazil national team, as well as the first player ever to win three World Cup medals. He also played for the New York Cosmos, and his charisma and grace on the field helped popularize soccer in America. After his retirement in 1977, he was an ambassador for soccer worldwide. This was his first book for children. Frank Morrison is known for his energetic, fluid illustrations of dancers, musicians, and athletes. He is the illustrator of Out of the Ballpark by Alex Rodriguez and Queen of the Scene by Queen Latifah, and was awarded a Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award for New Talent for Jazzy Miz Mozetta by Brenda C. Roberts, as well as a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award for Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson, and a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor for Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-Brown. He lives in Atlanta, Georgia with his wife and five children. Visit him online at morrisongraphics.com.