10+ Best Soccer Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Looking for the perfect read to keep your soccer-loving 11-year-old engaged? You're in the right spot! Our roundup of soccer books for 11-year-olds is packed with picks that are sure to capture the excitement of the game and inspire young readers. Whether they're players themselves or just fans of the sport, these books offer a thrilling glimpse into the world of soccer. Keep reading to discover our favorite soccer stories tailored just for them!

Fun Soccer Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Booked by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This novel in verse follows 12-year-old Nick as he navigates the challenges of middle school, the magic of first crushes, and his parents' looming divorce, all while trying to excel on the soccer field.
  • Why we recommend this book: The poetic format makes it a quick and engaging read, perfect for capturing the attention of young readers. It beautifully blends the excitement of soccer with the emotional growth of the protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young soccer fans and readers who appreciate stories told in a unique, poetic style.

• Tangerine by Edward Bloor
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Young Adult, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Paul Fisher sees the world from behind glasses so thick he looks like a bug-eyed alien. But he’s not so blind that he can’t see there are some very unusual things about his family’s new home in Tangerine County, Florida—where a sinkhole swallows his school, and mysterious things happen on the soccer field.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling sports action with deeper issues like bullying, disability, and family dynamics, making it a compelling read for preteens.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a mix of sports with a side of mystery and social commentary.

• Out of Nowhere by Maria Padian
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: When a high school soccer star in a small Maine town befriends a group of Somali refugees, his life and views are changed forever, challenging his understanding of tolerance, integration, and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a look into the world of high school sports while addressing important themes like immigration and cultural diversity, encouraging empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Soccer enthusiasts and readers interested in contemporary social issues.

• The Kicks: Saving the Team by Alex Morgan
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Middle Grade
  • Illustrator: Paula Franco
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Devin moves to California and finds her new school's soccer team, The Kicks, is in dire need of a turnaround. She takes the lead, hoping to propel the team to victory.
  • Why we recommend this book: Written by Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan, this book inspires with themes of leadership and teamwork, ideal for young readers looking to be both entertained and motivated.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and fans of women's soccer.

• Goal! by Mina Javaherbin
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Sports Fiction
  • Illustrator: A. G. Ford
  • Synopsis: In a dusty South African township, Ajani and his friends get a precious chance to play soccer with a new, federation-size soccer ball, but they must protect it from bullies.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that captures the joy and the communal spirit of soccer, making it a great choice for encouraging young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories about friendship and overcoming challenges through sports.

Educational Soccer Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Flea - The Amazing Story of Leo Messi by Michael Part
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Lionel Messi, from his humble beginnings in Argentina to becoming one of the greatest soccer players in the world. It details his challenges, including his battle with a growth hormone deficiency, and his rise to fame at Barcelona.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, inspiration from real-life figures, understanding of perseverance and dedication
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an inspiring look at Messi's determination and dedication, both on and off the pitch, making it a great motivational read for young soccer fans.
  • Perfect for: Soccer enthusiasts and young readers looking for real-life role models in sports.

• Winners Never Quit! by Mia Hamm, illustrated by Carol Thompson
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book, written by soccer legend Mia Hamm, tells the story of a young girl who learns the importance of teamwork and perseverance in soccer. It addresses the challenges of dealing with disappointment and the value of persistence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, sportsmanship, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: Authored by one of the most successful female soccer players, it encourages young readers to stay persistent and to always keep trying, even when things get tough.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and readers who need encouragement to never give up.

• Soccer School Season 1: Where Soccer Explains (Rules) the World by Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Educational, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book uses soccer to explain various aspects of the world, from biology and mathematics to sociology. It combines fun facts with real-world applications of the sport to engage readers in learning.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: General knowledge, interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a unique educational tool that uses the universal language of soccer to make learning about different subjects fun and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love soccer and learning about the world through the lens of their favorite sport.

• Sean Wants to Be Messi by Tanya Preminger
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This book follows the story of Sean, a young boy who dreams of becoming as great a soccer player as Lionel Messi. It explores his journey, the challenges he faces, and the lessons he learns about hard work and dedication.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Goal-setting, determination, personal growth
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a relatable story that will inspire young readers to pursue their dreams with hard work and persistence.
  • Perfect for: Young soccer fans who dream of becoming professional players and anyone who needs a little motivation to chase their dreams.

Challenging Soccer Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Striker Boy by Jonny Zucker
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Thriller
  • Synopsis: 13-year-old Nat Dixon becomes the youngest player ever for Hatton Rangers. While trying to fit in and prove his skills, he also uncovers a shocking secret that could change the fate of the team.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates a complex plot with themes of espionage alongside intense soccer action, which requires advanced reading skills and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the thrill of soccer with a gripping mystery, providing both excitement and a compelling narrative challenge.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love soccer and enjoy thrilling stories with a twist of mystery.

• Keeper by Mal Peet
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Magical Realism
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of El Gato, a world-famous goalkeeper who recounts his life from a poor South American village to the heights of global soccer stardom, guided by a mysterious mentor.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses a narrative structure that blends realistic sports fiction with elements of magical realism, challenging readers to differentiate and appreciate these complex layers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an inspirational story that also introduces a unique literary style, broadening young readers' perspectives on storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring soccer players and readers interested in a mix of sports and fantastical elements.

• Offside: My Life Crossing the Line by Sean Avery
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Sports
  • Synopsis: Known for his controversial and aggressive style on the ice, former NHL star Sean Avery shares his dynamic journey through professional sports, discussing not only his achievements but also the personal challenges he faced.
  • Why this book is challenging: Though primarily about hockey, its themes of sportsmanship, personal development, and the pressures of professional sports offer complex insights suitable for advanced readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a raw, unfiltered look into the life of a professional athlete, offering lessons about resilience and integrity.
  • Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts interested in real-life stories of athletes and the realities of professional sports careers.

• The Beautiful Game: The Infographic Book of Soccer by John Andrews
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Sports, Reference
  • Synopsis: This visual guide to soccer uses infographics to break down the sport’s history, tactics, teams, and key figures, providing a comprehensive overview in an accessible format.
  • Why this book is challenging: The infographic format demands analytical skills as readers interpret complex data and statistics related to soccer.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s visually stimulating and informative, perfect for visual learners and data enthusiasts who also love soccer.
  • Perfect for: Readers who prefer non-traditional book formats and enjoy statistics and visual data.

• Fever Pitch by Nick Hornby
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Sports
  • Synopsis: In this autobiographical tale, Nick Hornby explores his fanatical support for Arsenal Football Club, offering a deep, personal insight into the world of soccer fandom and its impact on his life.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores mature themes such as obsession, identity, and personal growth through the lens of sports fandom, requiring readers to engage with more profound psychological and social concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant look at how sports can influence one's life, providing a deeper understanding of personal and social identity.
  • Perfect for: Soccer fans and readers interested in autobiographies that delve into personal and emotional landscapes.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of soccer books and you're around 11 years old, you're in for a treat! Not only are these books packed with action and excitement, but they also offer a great opportunity to develop strong reading habits. Here are some fun exercises to help you get the most out of your reading experience:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you'll read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and helps to form a consistent reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Soccer Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Make a list of new soccer terms and words you find in your books.
  • How it helps: Enhances your understanding of the game and improves your vocabulary.
  • Tips: Use a notebook specifically for this purpose and review it regularly.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in soccer.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of what you’ve read.
  • Tips: Try to express what you liked about the plot, characters, or soccer strategies discussed.

• Draw Scenes from the Book
  • What it is: Sketch your favorite scenes or moments from the book.
  • How it helps: Strengthens your memory of the story and details.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on the key elements of the scene.

• Predict the Outcome
  • What it is: Before finishing the book, try to predict the ending or next developments in the story.
  • How it helps: Engages your analytical thinking and imagination.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and compare them with the actual outcomes.

• Connect the Dots
  • What it is: Relate events or tactics in the book to real-life soccer games or players.
  • How it helps: Deepens your understanding of soccer tactics and history.
  • Tips: Watch some soccer matches to see real-life applications of the concepts you read about.

Reading soccer books can be a fantastic way to combine your love for the game with improving your reading skills. By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy the stories more, but you'll also boost your comprehension and retention abilities. Keep kicking and reading!