10+ Best Soccer Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to ignite a passion for soccer in your young reader? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of soccer books for 8-year-olds is designed to captivate, educate, and inspire budding soccer fans. Whether they're just starting to learn about the game or already dreaming of scoring the winning goal, these books are sure to keep them turning the pages. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that will surely score with your little soccer enthusiast!

Fun Soccer Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Wild Soccer Bunch, Book 1: Kevin the Star Striker by Joachim Masannek, illustrated by Jan Birck
  • Genre(s): Sports, Adventure, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book introduces Kevin and his friends who form a soccer team to challenge the unbeatable "Unicorns." Their love for the game and teamwork shines as they prepare for the biggest match of their lives.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with action and the spirit of teamwork, making it an engaging read that encourages perseverance and sportsmanship.
  • Perfect for: Young soccer enthusiasts and kids who love stories about friendship and teamwork.

• Winners Never Quit! by Mia Hamm, illustrated by Carol Thompson
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book follows Mia Hamm as she learns an important lesson about losing and playing the game just for the joy of participating.
  • Why we recommend this book: Written by a soccer legend, it teaches children the important values of persistence and enjoying the game, regardless of the outcome.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and fans of soccer who need encouragement to keep trying, no matter what.

• Sean Wants to Be Messi by Tanya Preminger, illustrated by Elettra Cudignotto
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction, Motivational
  • Synopsis: A story about a young boy, Sean, who dreams of becoming as great a soccer player as his hero, Lionel Messi, and works hard to try to achieve his dream.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a motivational story that inspires dedication and hard work towards achieving one's dreams, showing that effort is as important as talent.
  • Perfect for: Kids who have big dreams and are looking for a role model in sports.

• Goal! by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by A. G. Ford
  • Genre(s): Sports, Culture, Friendship
  • Synopsis: Set in a dusty South African township, a group of friends share their love for soccer and work together to protect their new soccer ball from bullies.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to different cultures through the universal language of soccer and highlights the importance of friendship and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in soccer and stories about diverse cultures and camaraderie.

• Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by Renato Alarcão
  • Genre(s): Sports, Family, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: A Brazilian boy named Paulo dreams of becoming a soccer star and hopes to lift his family out of poverty, facing many challenges along the way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the passion for soccer with a touching story about family and ambition, encouraging readers to pursue their dreams with determination.
  • Perfect for: Children who are soccer fans and anyone who enjoys a story of hope and striving for personal goals.

Educational Soccer Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Soccer Fence by Phil Bildner, illustrated by Jesse Joshua Watson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: A story set in South Africa that chronicles the journey of a young boy, Hector, during the apartheid era. Hector's passion for soccer leads him to an unlikely friendship that symbolizes the breakdown of racial barriers.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, empathy, understanding of racial equality
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a poignant look at historical events through the lens of soccer, teaching important lessons about friendship and social change.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and social justice, and soccer fans.

• Pelé, King of Soccer/Pelé, El rey del fútbol by Monica Brown, illustrated by Rudy Gutierrez
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports, Bilingual
  • Synopsis: This bilingual book offers a vibrant look at the life of Pelé, one of the greatest soccer players ever, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a global soccer icon.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Bilingual language skills, historical sports knowledge, inspiration
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that highlights perseverance and dedication, plus it's a great way for kids to practice Spanish or English.
  • Perfect for: Young soccer fans and bilingual readers.

• Saving the Team by Alex Morgan
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Teamwork
  • Synopsis: Follow the journey of twelve-year-old Devin as she navigates challenges both on and off the soccer field after moving to a new city and joining a less competitive soccer team.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, problem-solving, adapting to change
  • Why we recommend this book: Written by U.S. Women's National Soccer team star Alex Morgan, it's filled with relatable scenarios and valuable lessons in teamwork and leadership.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and fans of women's soccer.

• The Flea - The Amazing Story of Leo Messi by Michael Part
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: The book tells the story of Lionel Messi, from his early life in Argentina to becoming one of the greatest soccer players in the world, focusing on his challenges and triumphs.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Motivation, sports history, overcoming adversity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of perseverance and passion, perfect for motivating young readers to pursue their dreams.
  • Perfect for: Young Messi fans and any child who loves an underdog story.

• Out of Nowhere by Maria Padian
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Sports, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around high school soccer player Tom Bouchard, who faces unexpected challenges when Somali refugees join his school team and community.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, empathy, teamwork
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles important themes of integration and community through the universally accessible world of high school sports.
  • Perfect for: Older children and teens interested in realistic fiction that addresses current social issues.

Challenging Soccer Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Striker Boy by Jonny Zucker
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Nat Dixon becomes the youngest player for Hatton Rangers, but off the pitch, he faces the mystery surrounding his dad's death. As he delves deeper, he uncovers secrets that could shake the football world.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book blends advanced soccer tactics with a complex mystery plot, providing a multifaceted reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a thrilling mix of sports action and detective work, keeping readers engaged while enhancing their problem-solving skills.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts who enjoy a good mystery.

• Booked by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Nick navigates both the challenges of middle school and his passion for soccer, all told through dynamic verse.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's verse format and sophisticated language provide a unique reading challenge that encourages linguistic creativity.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its poetic narrative style is both engaging and educational, promoting a love for reading and poetry alongside themes of resilience and passion.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a creative take on sports storytelling.

• The Kicks: Saving the Team by Alex Morgan
  • Genre(s): Sports, Teamwork, Empowerment
  • Synopsis: Devin moves to California and joins a struggling soccer team, using her leadership to transform the team's dynamics and their chances of success.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of leadership and personal growth, challenging readers to think about teamwork in new ways.
  • Why we recommend this book: Written by soccer star Alex Morgan, it provides realistic insights into teamwork and leadership, inspiring readers to take initiative.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in leadership roles and team sports dynamics.

• The Million Dollar Kick by Dan Gutman
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Whisper Nelson hates soccer, but when she wins a contest to attempt a million-dollar kick during halftime of a professional soccer game, she has to learn the sport quickly.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative combines humor with detailed soccer gameplay, requiring readers to understand the nuances of the sport.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and humorous story that also teaches valuable lessons about confidence and trying new things.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy a good laugh along with their sports stories.

• Offside by M.G. Higgins
  • Genre(s): Sports, Realistic Fiction, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: Adonis is a talented soccer player facing pressures both on and off the field, including gang violence in his neighborhood and his father's expectations.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses serious social issues through the lens of youth sports, offering a deeper narrative experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping look at overcoming adversity and the importance of making the right choices.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in stories that combine sports with real-life challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking for ways to make reading about soccer even more engaging for your 8-year-old, I've got some fun exercises that can help. These activities are designed to enhance their reading experience and develop good reading habits, all while enjoying their favorite sport through books. Here’s what you can try:

• Create a Soccer Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special place at home dedicated to reading soccer books.
  • How it helps: Creates a fun and inviting reading environment.
  • Tips: Decorate the corner with soccer posters and a comfy bean bag.

• Soccer Book Club
  • What it is: Start a book club focused on soccer books with your child’s friends.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and discussion about the books.
  • Tips: Host a monthly meeting where the kids can discuss a book they've all read.

• Match Recap
  • What it is: After reading a soccer book, have your child summarize the book as if they're a sportscaster.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and verbal expression.
  • Tips: Record the recap on your phone for a fun playback and review.

• Character Connection
  • What it is: Draw parallels between characters in the book and real-life soccer players.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the book’s characters and themes.
  • Tips: Use a chart to compare and contrast book characters with actual players.

• Soccer Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Create a list of new soccer-related words found in the books.
  • How it helps: Expands vocabulary and understanding of the game.
  • Tips: Use these new words in conversation during actual games or discussions.

• Illustrate a Scene
  • What it is: Choose a favorite scene from the book and illustrate it.
  • How it is: Encourages creativity and a deeper connection with the text.
  • Tips: Share the drawings with family members or friends to explain why it's their favorite part.

These exercises are a great way to keep your young reader engaged and excited about both reading and soccer. They not only improve reading skills but also deepen their love for the game. Give them a try and watch your little soccer fan flourish both on and off the field!