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Goal! #1
GOAL!: The Dream Begins
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.
229 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2005
68 people are currently reading
477 people want to read
About the author
Robert Rigby
45 books17 followersRobert Rigby began his career as a journalist, then spent several years in the music business as a songwriter and session musician. He turned to writing for radio, television, and the theatre, and has also directed and performed in children’s theatre throughout the country. He has become an established young people’s playwright, and his award-winning work with youth theatre companies has been seen in Britain, Europe, the USA, and Africa. He wrote the novelizations of the movies Goal! and Goal II, and his scripts for television include the long-running BBC children’s drama series, Byker Grove.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
April 26, 2012
Everyone has a dream. Aspiration. Ambition. Your goal is to do anything to fulfill it. In realization, sometimes your desires are honestly impossible. Yet, in your heart, you do anything and everything to try to make it happen.
Robert Rigby gives us a story about an illegal Mexican boy who grew up in the barrios of Los Angeles. All he wants to do is play soccer, and his dream is to become a professional and be known throughout the world. When he was young, he realized it would never become possible, but then, he got his chance by the man known as Glen Foy. Foy offered the boy to tryout for Newcastle United, if he could get himself there. The boys father forbade that he would do it because he believed it was pure nonsense. Mercedes, the boy’s grandmother, pulled some money together for him to get himself to Mexico City, get a passport, then fly to London, England. His dream began.
Santiago Muñez. He came to England with only some clothes, money, a passport, and the desire to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional. He stayed with Glen Foy because he didn’t know anyone else in England. At first, going to England was a mistake. He had a horrible tryout and they did not invite him to come back. Thanks to Foy, he was allowed a month trial. After a few ups and downs, his father passes away. Santi is expected to give up his lifelong dream just to go back home and deal with the passing of his father, but he then realizes that his father was against his dream and decides to stay in England. Soon enough, he makes it on the first squad. In the end, he wins the championship for Newcastle United and a new chant is made.
Rigby allows his reader to be engaged in the book the whole journey. The audience feels exactly what Santi felt. They feel sadness when Santi received the phone call from his grandmother about the death of his father. I, personally, felt nervous right before he takes a penalty kick. The reader definitely feels joy when Santi wins the game for Newcastle and receives a phone call from home saying that his father watched him play. There are many tones that one can feel while reading and/or watching Goal! The Dream Begins, but all of these feelings are part of not giving up on your dream because no matter what, it will be a part of you and your life. Many people have dreams, yet they give up halfway. If only they kept going, they would be happier. People focus on the reasons it wouldn’t be possible, instead of focusing on the ways to make it happen.
This book is for everyone, especially if you love soccer. It motivates you to go out and at least try to accomplish your goal. I think this has a good theme that many people should want to know, so go out and read it!
Robert Rigby gives us a story about an illegal Mexican boy who grew up in the barrios of Los Angeles. All he wants to do is play soccer, and his dream is to become a professional and be known throughout the world. When he was young, he realized it would never become possible, but then, he got his chance by the man known as Glen Foy. Foy offered the boy to tryout for Newcastle United, if he could get himself there. The boys father forbade that he would do it because he believed it was pure nonsense. Mercedes, the boy’s grandmother, pulled some money together for him to get himself to Mexico City, get a passport, then fly to London, England. His dream began.
Santiago Muñez. He came to England with only some clothes, money, a passport, and the desire to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional. He stayed with Glen Foy because he didn’t know anyone else in England. At first, going to England was a mistake. He had a horrible tryout and they did not invite him to come back. Thanks to Foy, he was allowed a month trial. After a few ups and downs, his father passes away. Santi is expected to give up his lifelong dream just to go back home and deal with the passing of his father, but he then realizes that his father was against his dream and decides to stay in England. Soon enough, he makes it on the first squad. In the end, he wins the championship for Newcastle United and a new chant is made.
Rigby allows his reader to be engaged in the book the whole journey. The audience feels exactly what Santi felt. They feel sadness when Santi received the phone call from his grandmother about the death of his father. I, personally, felt nervous right before he takes a penalty kick. The reader definitely feels joy when Santi wins the game for Newcastle and receives a phone call from home saying that his father watched him play. There are many tones that one can feel while reading and/or watching Goal! The Dream Begins, but all of these feelings are part of not giving up on your dream because no matter what, it will be a part of you and your life. Many people have dreams, yet they give up halfway. If only they kept going, they would be happier. People focus on the reasons it wouldn’t be possible, instead of focusing on the ways to make it happen.
This book is for everyone, especially if you love soccer. It motivates you to go out and at least try to accomplish your goal. I think this has a good theme that many people should want to know, so go out and read it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2012
I chose to write a review on this book because it was given to me as a present on Thanksgiving by a close family member. This book is about a boy named Santiago Munez and he lives in a small house in Los Angeles California with his little brother, Father, and Grandmother while his Mother left him when he was very little. Santiago would go to work as a gardener with his father but besides that Santiago's greatest joy in life is playing soccer. Santiago eventually got noticed by a scout from Newcastle England and has a hard time getting to Newcastle because his father does not approve of his dream of playing as a pro soccer player. When Santiago gets to Newcastle he finds out his father was killed while working. My favorite quote in the story is when Munez said "I do not know where home is" and his coach says "Yeah ya do. Its green and its got a goal post at each end" I really like that quote because I can relate to it because I love the game as if its my second home. It was very interesting how Santiago was nothing and was very poor and he stayed humble to get his biggest desire. I would not recommend this book to most people who are not interested in soccer or a good story about a young mans life.
March 15, 2021
I loved the movie more than the book
March 11, 2013
I would recommend this book to others because it shows the struggles of someone trying to play their favorite sport for a living. I would highly recommend it to soccer players or people who like sports books.
This book is about Santiago Munez who plays soccer in Los Angeles and is very good at it. Santiago is discovered by a former professional soccer player (Glen) who could potentially get him signed to a professional team. His favorite team, Newcastle, will allow him a trial but there are some obstacles. His father says he must work for him because of his family’s lack of money. When his father wanted a new truck, he took the money Santiago was saving to travel to Newcastle. Santiago’s dreams seemed to be ruined. But, his grandmother had been saving up money for a long time and Santiago was able to go to Newcastle for a rough trial.
I would rate this book 5 stars because, being a soccer player, this book is realistic and full of knowledge of how to play professionally.
This book is about Santiago Munez who plays soccer in Los Angeles and is very good at it. Santiago is discovered by a former professional soccer player (Glen) who could potentially get him signed to a professional team. His favorite team, Newcastle, will allow him a trial but there are some obstacles. His father says he must work for him because of his family’s lack of money. When his father wanted a new truck, he took the money Santiago was saving to travel to Newcastle. Santiago’s dreams seemed to be ruined. But, his grandmother had been saving up money for a long time and Santiago was able to go to Newcastle for a rough trial.
I would rate this book 5 stars because, being a soccer player, this book is realistic and full of knowledge of how to play professionally.
November 23, 2014
A couple of surprises are in store for you at the end! For those of you who have read this book already, do you think Santiago made the right choice not going back to LA for the funeral? What do you think will become of him and Roz? And...how about that final game?!?!?!
Read
October 23, 2015Goal
Kamil Chafli
Santiago was poor children who lost his parents when he was still a baby. His parents abandoned him. One day, Santiago founded his passion, soccer. He asked to play for a club named Amerigo Jr.This team was a bit of strange because the minimum players for a club is 22, this club had 18 players. Santiago was lucky because he actually played for the team: “ Santi was playing for the squad, it’s a good thing for him”. Santiago was a good player but his club was poor. In conclusion, Santiago is a poor children who lost his parents and he’s now playing soccer
The main character in the story, Santiago was living in a poor village in Mexico. After that his parents abandoned, his grandparents adopted him. “Santi’s grandparents were very poor, so they couldn’t afford a lot of things”. This quote shows how poor are Santi’s grandparents. Santi started his first tournament. He was playing very good. In conclusion, Santiago is now living with his grandparents
For the first soccer tournament or match, Santiago was playing. It was just an incredible event in his life. He didn’t know that he would be an awesome player. He played so well that his coach was impressed. He scored an incredible goal like Zlatan and did two assists in the same match. After that match, the coach talked with him. He told him that he was a talented boy and he doesn’t want to lose him.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
Mr. Feb asked his chief if Santiago could play for the team. He answered: “Are you crazy, we already have a lot of players in the team” (Rigby 30). Mr. Feb insisted so his boss sent his scout Adam to test Santiago. At the test Santiago was feeling bad. Adam encouraged him, he talked with him. After that, Santi did some incredible things. Adam was impressed, he immediately accepted him. He talked with him about going to other countries. Santiago wasn’t happy about this idea but he was accepted in the team.
In this chapter, Santiago asked his grandfather if he could one day leave from Mexico. He answered: “If you one day leave, I will catch you and kill you” (Rigby 43). He was unhappy about that. He was maybe unlucky about not going to other countries but he can now play soccer every day. At his first training for the club, he scored an incredible goal. He makes a lot of friends every day. We can conclude that Santiago is making friends.
Santiago was thinking about his future. He thought that when he will be 18, he would maybe travel with his club. He thinks that when he will get older, he will travel by his own and do more things by his own. He’s thinking about all these things but he forgot his grandfather that can sometimes be very mean. His grandfather can change all his future. His grandfather wants Santiago to stay with him and work with him.
For the possible theme that we can apply to the chapters that I read so far is that you can have a lot of dreams, but your parents and your grandparents can destroy them. They are maybe older than you but they are still an important piece of your family.
The theme that we can apply to the chapter that I just read is that we always have to think for another thing. I applied this theme because Santi maybe lost his parents but he’s still playing soccer. He’s also thinking about soccer while he’s living in a poor village in Mexico. He also can’t eat a lot of things. He can’t buy soccer shoes every week.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In this chapter, an important event in Santiago’s life was going to happen. Santiago was living one of the best days in his life. He is finally going to Newcastle (A British club). Santiago was happy but he had another big problem, his grandfather. After that we tell Santiago that he was going to Newcastle for a trial, he went to his house and then to his room, he starts thinking about this situation. He said: “I have an idea, if my grandfather said no, I’m going to see my grandmother who is really nice to convince my grandfather”(Rigby 76). This quote shows us how Santiago was smart. That’s how the chapter ends. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago had a really smart idea for going to Newcastle.
In this chapter, Santiago is now going to try his idea to go to Newcastle. His grandfather was returning from work. He was looking happy which is a good thing for Santiago. He went to see his grandmother, she was cooking something. He starts talking with her. At the beginning, she wasn’t looking Ok with this idea. But after so many hours of talking, he finally convinced her. He was so happy that: “ It was the best discussion that I had with my grandma since I was born.” (Rigby 78). In conclusion, we can say that Santiago is going to Newcastle.
Santiago was going to buy his ticket for Newcastle with his grandma. He bought it and he was so happy and impatient to go to England. He was also happy to discover some things in England. After that, he went to talk with his grandfather. He was so angry that he wanted to kill Santiago. Santiago wanted to calm him. “I am going to England and when I am going to be older, I’m going to have money and then I’ll give you some”. In this quote, we can see how important Santiago was for his family. In conclusion, we can say that Santi’s family is important for him.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In the chapters that I read, a new dream began for Santiago. He is now going to Newcastle. He’s going to play as a striker. “ I was dreaming about this since I was young” (Rigby 89). This quotes shows us that you can be poor but you can accomplish all your dreams. Santiago’s grandfather was a bit mad but when he was thinking about his future he was looking happy. Santiago’s grandmother was very happy, she was one of the only persons who listened to Santiago’s desires. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago accomplished one of his biggest dreams ever.
In the second chapter that I read, there are a lot of things that happened. The author described Santiago’s trip to Newcastle. Santiago was going with his new friend named Carlos. He was from Mexico too. “My new best friend is now Carlos, he’s really nice and he’s also really good as a center back” (Rigby 98). This quote shows us Santiago’s new “best friend”. In conclusion, we can say that Santi has a new best friend.
The author is now talking about Santiago in England. Santiago’s reaction when he arrived to England was so strange. It was strange because it was the first time that he’s in another country. “There was a lot of different things in this country, the cars, the people and even the airport was strange” (Rigby 106). This is Santi’s reaction when he came to England. In conclusion we can say that Santi was feeling strange when
There are a lot of themes that I can apply to the chapters that I read but I’m going to cite some now. One of the themes that we can apply to these situations is to never give. I applied this theme because imagine a little Mexican guy who was suppose to make tacos and eat burritos is now in England playing soccer. Santiago also lost his parents. To lose your parents is one of the hardest things that can happen to you. That was the theme that I applied to the chapters that I read.
The theme that I can apply for these chapters is how your family is important for you. We can see that by his for them. Santiago loves his grandparents but his grandparents also love him. We can see that his grandparents love him because his grandmother gave him the money for the trip to Newcastle.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In the chapters that I read, a new dream began for Santiago. He is now going to Newcastle. He’s going to play as a striker. “ I was dreaming about this since I was young” (Rigby 89). This quotes shows us that you can be poor but you can accomplish all your dreams. Santiago’s grandfather was a bit mad but when he was thinking about his future he was looking happy. Santiago’s grandmother was very happy, she was one of the only persons who listened to Santiago’s desires. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago accomplished one of his biggest dreams ever.
In the second chapter that I read, there are a lot of things that happened. The author described Santiago’s trip to Newcastle. Santiago was going with his new friend named Carlos. He was from Mexico too. “My new best friend is now Carlos, he’s really nice and he’s also really good as a center back” (Rigby 98). This quote shows us Santiago’s new “best friend”. In conclusion, we can say that Santi has a new best friend.
The author is now talking about Santiago in England. Santiago’s reaction when he arrived to England was so strange. It was strange because it was the first time that he’s in another country. “There was a lot of different things in this country, the cars, the people and even the airport was strange” (Rigby 106). This is Santi’s reaction when he came to England. In conclusion we can say that Santi was feeling strange when
There are a lot of themes that I can apply to the chapters that I read but I’m going to cite some now. One of the themes that we can apply to these situations is to never give. I applied this theme because imagine a little Mexican guy who was suppose to make tacos and eat burritos is now in England playing soccer. Santiago also lost his parents. To lose your parents is one of the hardest things that can happen to you. That was the theme that I applied to the chapters that I read.Goal
Kamil Chafli
In this chapter Santiago is going to start playing some soccer matches and he’s also going to get some “fans”. Santiago is going to play against some other guys who were the best in Newcastle. He never saw them but his trainer told him that. The trainer was not scared but Santi was. The trainer tried to comfort him. “You are one of the best soccer players that ever saw in my life so you don’t have to be scared and you will have to fight like all your other friends, if you’re not going to play we are going to lose”(Rigby 130). This quote shows the reader how important Santiago was for his team. In conclusion, we can say that Santi was scared from the other team but his trainer comforted him.
In the other chapter, Santiago was going to play against this “big team” and he was more comfort but a bit scared. Santiago had his own uniform with his name on it. “It was the first time that I have an uniform, when I was in Mexico, I was to poor to buy something”. (Rigby 134). This quote shows the reader how poor Santi was. Santi was stressed; he was the only striker this day. All the other strikers were injured or not there. The field was huge; he never saw a field like that. He started training with his team. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago will be the only striker in this match, and that the reader is impatient to see what is going to happen, when he’s going to play.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
This chapter will be the last chapter in the book, a lot of things happened and I’m going to cite the main things now. First, Santi saw the players that he was going to play against. He was really shocked. “When I saw theses guys, I was going to cry but the trainer came and talked with him”. He told him to think about his family, his parents were dead but he had think about them and to win for them. After that the match started. The players of the other team were really big and strong but Santi was really smart so he dribbled a lot of them. They conceded a goal but Santi scored two others. After that Santi started crying because his team won and that he didn’t get injured.
There are a lot of themes that we can apply to the chapter that I read but I’m going to cite some now. First one of the main themes is “you don’t have to be scared from everything”. I applied this theme because that’s exactly what happened to Santiago. He was scared from all the teams. He was scared but he beat them at the endIt is the last chapter of the book. A lot of things happened and I’m going to give you some details about all the events. First, Santiago was going to play his last match before going back to Mexico. He was a bit unhappy. “This was the best experience in my life” (Rigby 154). This quote shows the reader that Santiago was really happy to be in Newcastle. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago’s trip to Newcastle was the best experience for him.
In the second part of the chapter, the author is talking about the trainer and Santi’s reaction when they knew who was the other team.. First, the training was getting harder and harder. “My trainer was a bit nervous because he knew the team that we were going to face”. This quotes explains to the reader that Santi’s trainer was afraid because he knew the other team. Santiago was not really scared because he did an excellent job in his last match, so he wasn’t worried. Santiago worked really hard in all trainings. In conclusion, the reader can say that Santiago’s trainer is worried but Santi is not.
In the last part of the chapter, Rigby is talking about the final against the other team. “The big day finally came and I’m impatient to play.” This quote shows the reader that Santi is ready for the final. Fortunately, Santiago wasn’t the only striker today. His friend, Carlos was playing with him. Santi’s cousin, Chicharito was with the other team. He knew that he was a really good player. In the first half, Carlos scored an amazing free kick. In the second half, Santiago an amazing back heel goal. They finally won the match 2-0. In conclusion, we can say that the Santiago won his first title in Newcastle.
Kamil Chafli
Santiago was poor children who lost his parents when he was still a baby. His parents abandoned him. One day, Santiago founded his passion, soccer. He asked to play for a club named Amerigo Jr.This team was a bit of strange because the minimum players for a club is 22, this club had 18 players. Santiago was lucky because he actually played for the team: “ Santi was playing for the squad, it’s a good thing for him”. Santiago was a good player but his club was poor. In conclusion, Santiago is a poor children who lost his parents and he’s now playing soccer
The main character in the story, Santiago was living in a poor village in Mexico. After that his parents abandoned, his grandparents adopted him. “Santi’s grandparents were very poor, so they couldn’t afford a lot of things”. This quote shows how poor are Santi’s grandparents. Santi started his first tournament. He was playing very good. In conclusion, Santiago is now living with his grandparents
For the first soccer tournament or match, Santiago was playing. It was just an incredible event in his life. He didn’t know that he would be an awesome player. He played so well that his coach was impressed. He scored an incredible goal like Zlatan and did two assists in the same match. After that match, the coach talked with him. He told him that he was a talented boy and he doesn’t want to lose him.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
Mr. Feb asked his chief if Santiago could play for the team. He answered: “Are you crazy, we already have a lot of players in the team” (Rigby 30). Mr. Feb insisted so his boss sent his scout Adam to test Santiago. At the test Santiago was feeling bad. Adam encouraged him, he talked with him. After that, Santi did some incredible things. Adam was impressed, he immediately accepted him. He talked with him about going to other countries. Santiago wasn’t happy about this idea but he was accepted in the team.
In this chapter, Santiago asked his grandfather if he could one day leave from Mexico. He answered: “If you one day leave, I will catch you and kill you” (Rigby 43). He was unhappy about that. He was maybe unlucky about not going to other countries but he can now play soccer every day. At his first training for the club, he scored an incredible goal. He makes a lot of friends every day. We can conclude that Santiago is making friends.
Santiago was thinking about his future. He thought that when he will be 18, he would maybe travel with his club. He thinks that when he will get older, he will travel by his own and do more things by his own. He’s thinking about all these things but he forgot his grandfather that can sometimes be very mean. His grandfather can change all his future. His grandfather wants Santiago to stay with him and work with him.
For the possible theme that we can apply to the chapters that I read so far is that you can have a lot of dreams, but your parents and your grandparents can destroy them. They are maybe older than you but they are still an important piece of your family.
The theme that we can apply to the chapter that I just read is that we always have to think for another thing. I applied this theme because Santi maybe lost his parents but he’s still playing soccer. He’s also thinking about soccer while he’s living in a poor village in Mexico. He also can’t eat a lot of things. He can’t buy soccer shoes every week.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In this chapter, an important event in Santiago’s life was going to happen. Santiago was living one of the best days in his life. He is finally going to Newcastle (A British club). Santiago was happy but he had another big problem, his grandfather. After that we tell Santiago that he was going to Newcastle for a trial, he went to his house and then to his room, he starts thinking about this situation. He said: “I have an idea, if my grandfather said no, I’m going to see my grandmother who is really nice to convince my grandfather”(Rigby 76). This quote shows us how Santiago was smart. That’s how the chapter ends. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago had a really smart idea for going to Newcastle.
In this chapter, Santiago is now going to try his idea to go to Newcastle. His grandfather was returning from work. He was looking happy which is a good thing for Santiago. He went to see his grandmother, she was cooking something. He starts talking with her. At the beginning, she wasn’t looking Ok with this idea. But after so many hours of talking, he finally convinced her. He was so happy that: “ It was the best discussion that I had with my grandma since I was born.” (Rigby 78). In conclusion, we can say that Santiago is going to Newcastle.
Santiago was going to buy his ticket for Newcastle with his grandma. He bought it and he was so happy and impatient to go to England. He was also happy to discover some things in England. After that, he went to talk with his grandfather. He was so angry that he wanted to kill Santiago. Santiago wanted to calm him. “I am going to England and when I am going to be older, I’m going to have money and then I’ll give you some”. In this quote, we can see how important Santiago was for his family. In conclusion, we can say that Santi’s family is important for him.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In the chapters that I read, a new dream began for Santiago. He is now going to Newcastle. He’s going to play as a striker. “ I was dreaming about this since I was young” (Rigby 89). This quotes shows us that you can be poor but you can accomplish all your dreams. Santiago’s grandfather was a bit mad but when he was thinking about his future he was looking happy. Santiago’s grandmother was very happy, she was one of the only persons who listened to Santiago’s desires. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago accomplished one of his biggest dreams ever.
In the second chapter that I read, there are a lot of things that happened. The author described Santiago’s trip to Newcastle. Santiago was going with his new friend named Carlos. He was from Mexico too. “My new best friend is now Carlos, he’s really nice and he’s also really good as a center back” (Rigby 98). This quote shows us Santiago’s new “best friend”. In conclusion, we can say that Santi has a new best friend.
The author is now talking about Santiago in England. Santiago’s reaction when he arrived to England was so strange. It was strange because it was the first time that he’s in another country. “There was a lot of different things in this country, the cars, the people and even the airport was strange” (Rigby 106). This is Santi’s reaction when he came to England. In conclusion we can say that Santi was feeling strange when
There are a lot of themes that I can apply to the chapters that I read but I’m going to cite some now. One of the themes that we can apply to these situations is to never give. I applied this theme because imagine a little Mexican guy who was suppose to make tacos and eat burritos is now in England playing soccer. Santiago also lost his parents. To lose your parents is one of the hardest things that can happen to you. That was the theme that I applied to the chapters that I read.
The theme that I can apply for these chapters is how your family is important for you. We can see that by his for them. Santiago loves his grandparents but his grandparents also love him. We can see that his grandparents love him because his grandmother gave him the money for the trip to Newcastle.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
In the chapters that I read, a new dream began for Santiago. He is now going to Newcastle. He’s going to play as a striker. “ I was dreaming about this since I was young” (Rigby 89). This quotes shows us that you can be poor but you can accomplish all your dreams. Santiago’s grandfather was a bit mad but when he was thinking about his future he was looking happy. Santiago’s grandmother was very happy, she was one of the only persons who listened to Santiago’s desires. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago accomplished one of his biggest dreams ever.
In the second chapter that I read, there are a lot of things that happened. The author described Santiago’s trip to Newcastle. Santiago was going with his new friend named Carlos. He was from Mexico too. “My new best friend is now Carlos, he’s really nice and he’s also really good as a center back” (Rigby 98). This quote shows us Santiago’s new “best friend”. In conclusion, we can say that Santi has a new best friend.
The author is now talking about Santiago in England. Santiago’s reaction when he arrived to England was so strange. It was strange because it was the first time that he’s in another country. “There was a lot of different things in this country, the cars, the people and even the airport was strange” (Rigby 106). This is Santi’s reaction when he came to England. In conclusion we can say that Santi was feeling strange when
There are a lot of themes that I can apply to the chapters that I read but I’m going to cite some now. One of the themes that we can apply to these situations is to never give. I applied this theme because imagine a little Mexican guy who was suppose to make tacos and eat burritos is now in England playing soccer. Santiago also lost his parents. To lose your parents is one of the hardest things that can happen to you. That was the theme that I applied to the chapters that I read.Goal
Kamil Chafli
In this chapter Santiago is going to start playing some soccer matches and he’s also going to get some “fans”. Santiago is going to play against some other guys who were the best in Newcastle. He never saw them but his trainer told him that. The trainer was not scared but Santi was. The trainer tried to comfort him. “You are one of the best soccer players that ever saw in my life so you don’t have to be scared and you will have to fight like all your other friends, if you’re not going to play we are going to lose”(Rigby 130). This quote shows the reader how important Santiago was for his team. In conclusion, we can say that Santi was scared from the other team but his trainer comforted him.
In the other chapter, Santiago was going to play against this “big team” and he was more comfort but a bit scared. Santiago had his own uniform with his name on it. “It was the first time that I have an uniform, when I was in Mexico, I was to poor to buy something”. (Rigby 134). This quote shows the reader how poor Santi was. Santi was stressed; he was the only striker this day. All the other strikers were injured or not there. The field was huge; he never saw a field like that. He started training with his team. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago will be the only striker in this match, and that the reader is impatient to see what is going to happen, when he’s going to play.
Kamil Chafli
Goal
This chapter will be the last chapter in the book, a lot of things happened and I’m going to cite the main things now. First, Santi saw the players that he was going to play against. He was really shocked. “When I saw theses guys, I was going to cry but the trainer came and talked with him”. He told him to think about his family, his parents were dead but he had think about them and to win for them. After that the match started. The players of the other team were really big and strong but Santi was really smart so he dribbled a lot of them. They conceded a goal but Santi scored two others. After that Santi started crying because his team won and that he didn’t get injured.
There are a lot of themes that we can apply to the chapter that I read but I’m going to cite some now. First one of the main themes is “you don’t have to be scared from everything”. I applied this theme because that’s exactly what happened to Santiago. He was scared from all the teams. He was scared but he beat them at the endIt is the last chapter of the book. A lot of things happened and I’m going to give you some details about all the events. First, Santiago was going to play his last match before going back to Mexico. He was a bit unhappy. “This was the best experience in my life” (Rigby 154). This quote shows the reader that Santiago was really happy to be in Newcastle. In conclusion, we can say that Santiago’s trip to Newcastle was the best experience for him.
In the second part of the chapter, the author is talking about the trainer and Santi’s reaction when they knew who was the other team.. First, the training was getting harder and harder. “My trainer was a bit nervous because he knew the team that we were going to face”. This quotes explains to the reader that Santi’s trainer was afraid because he knew the other team. Santiago was not really scared because he did an excellent job in his last match, so he wasn’t worried. Santiago worked really hard in all trainings. In conclusion, the reader can say that Santiago’s trainer is worried but Santi is not.
In the last part of the chapter, Rigby is talking about the final against the other team. “The big day finally came and I’m impatient to play.” This quote shows the reader that Santi is ready for the final. Fortunately, Santiago wasn’t the only striker today. His friend, Carlos was playing with him. Santi’s cousin, Chicharito was with the other team. He knew that he was a really good player. In the first half, Carlos scored an amazing free kick. In the second half, Santiago an amazing back heel goal. They finally won the match 2-0. In conclusion, we can say that the Santiago won his first title in Newcastle.
January 12, 2024
This was not like anything I'd usually read but it was quite enjoyable. I like books that speak about exercise and anything having to do with success stories. Santiago came from nothing and with his passion for football, his talent, and some luck, he managed to make a name for himself, and his family proud. He doesn't score all that much in this one but I'm certain that his reputation is now better than ever. There are some real names thrown around in here from about 10 years ago I suppose. I don't follow football much as I'm more of a swimmer but this one was about the protagonist's team making it to the Champion's league. There is some really great banter, some highs and lows, and the usual trope of not making it the first time then coming back a second stronger than ever, dominating the scene.
Quite saddening yet encouraging. People who are born with a talent like Santiago's need to learn to believe in themselves yet still depend on others to give them opportunities to prove themselves to the world. It's quite bittersweet how Santiago didn't listen to what his dad had to say about his dreams and pursued them anyway. I'm sure Santi's dad wanted what was best for his son but sometimes life doesn't work that way. I'd recommend to football fans who perhaps don't read much. Myself, I don't watch football and still thought of this as a pleasant read, just not mind-blowing, so fans of the sport should enjoy it more than I did. I never really understood the appeal where football is concerned tbh
Quite saddening yet encouraging. People who are born with a talent like Santiago's need to learn to believe in themselves yet still depend on others to give them opportunities to prove themselves to the world. It's quite bittersweet how Santiago didn't listen to what his dad had to say about his dreams and pursued them anyway. I'm sure Santi's dad wanted what was best for his son but sometimes life doesn't work that way. I'd recommend to football fans who perhaps don't read much. Myself, I don't watch football and still thought of this as a pleasant read, just not mind-blowing, so fans of the sport should enjoy it more than I did. I never really understood the appeal where football is concerned tbh
January 16, 2018
This is an inspiring story of a young athlete named Santiago that came from an immigrant family and poverty to becoming part of an important club in England. His father would constantly tell him to live his traditional life just as he did and stick to gardening, yet his dream was to become a professional player. Through Santiago's effort and dedication he was scouted by Newcastle United and was able to reach his dream. This shows the importance of dreams and how they are attainable through hard work and persistence. No matter how hard something can be, it is certainly not impossible. It becomes impossible if you tell yourself it is impossible.
Read
February 11, 2009Goal!: The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby hypnotized me by his fascinating story of Santiago. This novel discusses how Santiago went from being another kid on the streets with a dream to play professional soccer to actually getting a shot to play with the professionals. This novel teaches the lesson that dreams can come true if your willing to work hard enough to make them reality. Robert Rigby style is strait forward and he doesn't go on and on about one specific topic.
Santiago lives in L.A. He works hard because his family does not have very much money. Santiago also loves soccer with a passion. He is one of the best in the city and finally gets noticed when a man from England is watching one of his games and gives him a trial to play for a soccer club in England called New Castle United.Just like anyone in the real world, Santiago has to work to get money. He works more than ever so he can pay for a flight to England.
The setting starts off in Mexico when Santiago and his family are escaping to America when he was a little kid. Then the novel skips to when he is a teenager in L.A. The story stays there until he flies to England and that is where most of the novel takes place.
After he arrives in England, he has to work harder than ever to make the team. When he does finally make the team, some problems start to occur with his family back home and for him while he is there. Then when he finally gets to play, he makes something amazing happen that finally makes his dad proud of him for once, and soon after a bad thing happens to someone close to him. Sadly I can not give away what happens.
This novel is suspenseful and a good read for anyone who likes soccer. It is an easy read and quickly draws you in. There is also a second book, but I have not read it yet. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a good read about soccer.
Santiago lives in L.A. He works hard because his family does not have very much money. Santiago also loves soccer with a passion. He is one of the best in the city and finally gets noticed when a man from England is watching one of his games and gives him a trial to play for a soccer club in England called New Castle United.Just like anyone in the real world, Santiago has to work to get money. He works more than ever so he can pay for a flight to England.
The setting starts off in Mexico when Santiago and his family are escaping to America when he was a little kid. Then the novel skips to when he is a teenager in L.A. The story stays there until he flies to England and that is where most of the novel takes place.
After he arrives in England, he has to work harder than ever to make the team. When he does finally make the team, some problems start to occur with his family back home and for him while he is there. Then when he finally gets to play, he makes something amazing happen that finally makes his dad proud of him for once, and soon after a bad thing happens to someone close to him. Sadly I can not give away what happens.
This novel is suspenseful and a good read for anyone who likes soccer. It is an easy read and quickly draws you in. There is also a second book, but I have not read it yet. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a good read about soccer.
January 9, 2019
very inspring book to follow your dreams even as a kid or adult neve give up
April 18, 2013
The book GOAL by ROBERT RIGBY is a fantastic book about an aspiring young soccer player who tries and makes a name for himself at the elite level. Santiago (the main character) Munez is a young soccer player playing the game he loves. He hasn't had the easiest life. When he was 10 years old he escaped Mexico with his family. His dad Herman who is very tough on him but just wants the best for him. Julio, Santiago's brother, he aspires to be just like his older brother. Mercedes, Santiagos grand mother is the main person in the family because she is the one that does everything and helps everyone. Santiagos story started when he was just playing with his local team and an ex professional soccer player (Glen) was watching his son play a game of soccer when he caught a glimpse of young Santiago. Glen pulled a few strings and not long after that Santaigo was trialling with some of the best soccer teams in England. I will let you find out the rest when when you read it.
Robert Rigby started his career as a journalist, he then spent several years in the music industry being a songwriter. Robert released 2 albums. After his stint in the music industry Robert returned to writing for television, radio the theatre. While he was doing this he directed a few plays. After all this he started writing novels, his best selling work being in Goal and Goal 2. Robert also helped Andy Mcnab write his book Boy soldier.
The genre of the novel is Drama, Romance and Sports. The theme throughout the book is that you should never give up on your dream and always strive to be your best. This book is aimed at teenagers.
This is a super great book and I encourage everyone to read it because I really enjoyed it. I rate this book a 9.5/10
Robert Rigby started his career as a journalist, he then spent several years in the music industry being a songwriter. Robert released 2 albums. After his stint in the music industry Robert returned to writing for television, radio the theatre. While he was doing this he directed a few plays. After all this he started writing novels, his best selling work being in Goal and Goal 2. Robert also helped Andy Mcnab write his book Boy soldier.
The genre of the novel is Drama, Romance and Sports. The theme throughout the book is that you should never give up on your dream and always strive to be your best. This book is aimed at teenagers.
This is a super great book and I encourage everyone to read it because I really enjoyed it. I rate this book a 9.5/10
October 29, 2013
I gave this book 4 stars because I thought it was a good realistic fiction book. I like how Rigby brings in real life soccer to this book. For instance, using the premier league in the book really shows Rigby's knowledge on soccer. Santiago overcomes his odds in working for his father all his life and lives his dream as a professional soccer player. I recommend this book for all people who like soccer.
January 13, 2010
This book was an inspiring story, I think the character choice by the auhtor was quite while. It did not have as much soccer as I wanted, but is more of an adult book. I leanred from this book that you can't let negative influences like Sanitago's father make you give up on somethng you love, and if you continue to fullfill your dream a little bit at a time you will get there. Just like Santi.
February 22, 2013
Finished in some 3-4 hours..Was movie made out of this book or book was written out of the movie..After seeing this movie for umpteenth time, Every line of this book was described in the movie as it is..every movement, every scene same to same.
Loved the movie Loved the book! :)
Loved the movie Loved the book! :)
March 6, 2018
This book was really good for football fans it really showed what hardship is like and was a great story involving one of my favourite genres it is about a 17 year old boy from America that got scouted and went and played for Newcastle.
March 6, 2015
"Dad! Dad? Mom?! Mom Where are you(Robert Rigby 1)". Dad and Mom, where are you? First question of these series showing that Santiago's parents abandoning him. Santiago was crying and got into a depression because his parents left him. Crying, crying, crying, barely moving out of his desk. One day, Santiago found a passion. Santiago went to the local club named Amerigo Jr to ask for a trial. The coach remarked him during the first game and he started to play in this league club who doesnt even have money to buy a soccer ball. They only had 18 players in there squad when the minimum for a club is 22 players. They had no stadium and barely no public.
Santiago lived in one of the poorest villages in Mexico. Santi lived with his too old grandparents and his younger brother who there parents abandoned. "Santiago told grandma he wanted Ice Cream, and grandpa said yeah? me too (Robert Rigby 7). This quote shows that they couldnt even afford candy. They lived in a house shared with four other neighbors and they call this house "hell or nothing". Santiago went for the first tournament with his new poor club. Santiago starts playing and he realizes something that will disturb him.
Santiago starts the game with "a wonderfull goal from the young striker who has brightened the eyes of the coaches (Rigby 10)." His teammate who's name is uknown, throws the ball outside. Santiago asks someone who was watching the match to give it to him and he gladly did. Santiago had an amazing match which he scored an amazing goal and had two amazing assists for a goal. After the game, Santiago was walking back to his house untill the guy who gave him the ball back came to talk to him. Turns out the guy was a scout and his first empression of santiago munez was incredible.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Majid Marrakchi
English 7-01
"Hello Mr. Feb, Can you do me a favor sir? (Rigby 29)". The scout called his cheif or his boss to ask him if he could come and check Santiago Munez's skills and his playing ability. Mr.Feb, the boss refused at first untill the scout decided to email him a video tape of his best skills. Mr. feb calls the scout (Adam) again and tells him he is ready to see this player. Adam was exhilerated to show to his boss this kids skills and what potential he can be at. Adam goes to Santiago and wants to talk to him and take his advice about calling someone to come and see his skills. Santiago feels something in his stomach and he automatically feels really bad. He doesnt know how to react and so he asked his familly (grandfather and grandmother) and his grandfathers reaction was unforgettable for santiago and his grandmother.
"Santiago, I swear to god, In my whole life, If you leave this country and dont do what i ask you to do, i will kill you" (Rigby 43). Santiago's grandfather was the maddest person on earth when he got that santiago was considering a move to another country and santi's grandfather always used to say that people are born to do what their parents are doing, and it is foolish to do or to even think otherwise. As opposed to Santiago's grandmother was happy that Santiago has a dream and she thinks that his grandfather is way overacting. santiago goes to his room, heartbroken. He thinks to himself about the oppurtunity he got at the age of 16 and how it could led to him finally playing in his favorite club and making his dream come true. Santiago goes back to the scout and tells him its not going to be possible and almost nothing can change his grandfathers mind that Santi should stay and work with him.
"Are you sure? Do you even know where it is" (Rigby 51). This question helped and made Santiago the player he is now. Without this question santi would just be a poor guy working with his grandfather in peoples houses. But when Santiago replied he doesnt know where he would play and the scout said he would play in the Barclays Premier League, (the best league in europe) Santiago directley forgot about his grandfather and knew how big this chance is to play in the best league in the world. The meeting between the scout, his boss, and santiago was supposed to be at 6 PM but the boss didnt show up. Adam called his boss and told him "Boss, did you forget you were supposed to come and check this player?" The boss answered very meanly talking about the scout saying he has no taste and that now he should work in old cars because no one will ever realize he will be gone. He also fired the scout and that left Santiago waiting for the meeting. it is now 6:30 PM and no one has showed up to see Santiago play, and he is asking himself question
Friday 20 February 2015
"Of course, another dream that goes out of the window. Thanks anyway"(Rigby 69). This quote indicates the unhappiness of the young santi when the scout didnt show up. He went back home heart broken ready to get yelled at by his grandfather. He comes to his house and his grandfather makes him so mad that for once he lets out his emotions and shouts at his grandpa. He then insults him and run out of the house. Santiago was so sad he was almost in a depression. Santi was in the streets with only a soccer ball alone. The thing he didnt know was that there was a call going on right now exactly the same moment in england and that will change his life.
"Sir you want me to give hiom a trial" (Rigby 76). Adam the scout called everysingle club in the premimer league (england) and only one accepted for santi to go on a trial and it is newcastle united an amazing club to grow in and amazing for youngsters. Adam went to mexico to get santi and told him about what happened. He also included that santi had one month to think about it and that in one month he would go to newcastle for a trial. Santiago thoguht to himself that it was stupid to fight with his grandpa again and to have many porblems so for the first week he ignored the oppurtunity.
"I accept! Im here and i bought my ticket" Santiago munez is going to newcastle for a trial at the club! Santi was at the airport left his grandparents and went to pursue his dream of being a soccer star. But there was one problam, the plain wasnt working well and so santiago was going to be late for the meeting for newcastle. Santiago was stressing and really wanted to be in time for the meeting. Santiago starting doubting his chances in newcastly and he started saying to himself that why should he get in a fight with his grandfather, make himself loose money, make himself go into so much pain just so that he gets a trial in newcastle and its not even guaranteed to play? santi really regretted going to the plane and he was there thinking. Will santi make it or not?
Santi arrived in london to the scouts house and he felt extremely sick. Santiago was stressing for the trial but he new he would made it. Finally the day come up and santi "starts playing line back, even though its not his position"(Rigby 121). Santiago is playing in nexcastle in the reserves substitution, so its the people who are not even playing's subs, so thats really low. It was raining that day and santiago had no idea of what proffesional was so he was playing poorly, reallly poorly. Santiago slipped many times, was selfish, never passed the ball, and missed many shots. The coach is not impressed by the first impression of the young kid, and he was sure that Santiago was a poor ole' joke and he was sure that the best thing to do is to let santiago go.
"Sorry coach, i will try my best next time" Santiago cried after his coach begging him. The coach said, "im sorry kid, there is no next time. This trial was short, i admit, but i seriously need to let you go." (Rigby 151) Santiago was so mad and went to the scout and went to stay in his house. He stayed locked up in his room for two consecutive days, thinking about what he had done wrong. One of his old friends from Mexico spotted him and asked him if they wanted to go out to refresh Santiago and santi refused, but the friend begged him and out of annoying him, santi accepted.
"Dance, Dance, DANCE!" (Rigby 193) Dance sanitago, you literally need to free your mind, santis friend said. Santiago got a little over limit and he woke up not in his apartment. He woke up panicking because he had betrayed the scout, so he called a taxi to get him. The taxi got him and there was another problem. The first team player Galvin Harris from Newcastle who was famous needed a cab urgent and santi was in that cab, so Galvin went into the same cab as santi, and for santi the rest is amazing.
Santiago lived in one of the poorest villages in Mexico. Santi lived with his too old grandparents and his younger brother who there parents abandoned. "Santiago told grandma he wanted Ice Cream, and grandpa said yeah? me too (Robert Rigby 7). This quote shows that they couldnt even afford candy. They lived in a house shared with four other neighbors and they call this house "hell or nothing". Santiago went for the first tournament with his new poor club. Santiago starts playing and he realizes something that will disturb him.
Santiago starts the game with "a wonderfull goal from the young striker who has brightened the eyes of the coaches (Rigby 10)." His teammate who's name is uknown, throws the ball outside. Santiago asks someone who was watching the match to give it to him and he gladly did. Santiago had an amazing match which he scored an amazing goal and had two amazing assists for a goal. After the game, Santiago was walking back to his house untill the guy who gave him the ball back came to talk to him. Turns out the guy was a scout and his first empression of santiago munez was incredible.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Majid Marrakchi
English 7-01
"Hello Mr. Feb, Can you do me a favor sir? (Rigby 29)". The scout called his cheif or his boss to ask him if he could come and check Santiago Munez's skills and his playing ability. Mr.Feb, the boss refused at first untill the scout decided to email him a video tape of his best skills. Mr. feb calls the scout (Adam) again and tells him he is ready to see this player. Adam was exhilerated to show to his boss this kids skills and what potential he can be at. Adam goes to Santiago and wants to talk to him and take his advice about calling someone to come and see his skills. Santiago feels something in his stomach and he automatically feels really bad. He doesnt know how to react and so he asked his familly (grandfather and grandmother) and his grandfathers reaction was unforgettable for santiago and his grandmother.
"Santiago, I swear to god, In my whole life, If you leave this country and dont do what i ask you to do, i will kill you" (Rigby 43). Santiago's grandfather was the maddest person on earth when he got that santiago was considering a move to another country and santi's grandfather always used to say that people are born to do what their parents are doing, and it is foolish to do or to even think otherwise. As opposed to Santiago's grandmother was happy that Santiago has a dream and she thinks that his grandfather is way overacting. santiago goes to his room, heartbroken. He thinks to himself about the oppurtunity he got at the age of 16 and how it could led to him finally playing in his favorite club and making his dream come true. Santiago goes back to the scout and tells him its not going to be possible and almost nothing can change his grandfathers mind that Santi should stay and work with him.
"Are you sure? Do you even know where it is" (Rigby 51). This question helped and made Santiago the player he is now. Without this question santi would just be a poor guy working with his grandfather in peoples houses. But when Santiago replied he doesnt know where he would play and the scout said he would play in the Barclays Premier League, (the best league in europe) Santiago directley forgot about his grandfather and knew how big this chance is to play in the best league in the world. The meeting between the scout, his boss, and santiago was supposed to be at 6 PM but the boss didnt show up. Adam called his boss and told him "Boss, did you forget you were supposed to come and check this player?" The boss answered very meanly talking about the scout saying he has no taste and that now he should work in old cars because no one will ever realize he will be gone. He also fired the scout and that left Santiago waiting for the meeting. it is now 6:30 PM and no one has showed up to see Santiago play, and he is asking himself question
Friday 20 February 2015
"Of course, another dream that goes out of the window. Thanks anyway"(Rigby 69). This quote indicates the unhappiness of the young santi when the scout didnt show up. He went back home heart broken ready to get yelled at by his grandfather. He comes to his house and his grandfather makes him so mad that for once he lets out his emotions and shouts at his grandpa. He then insults him and run out of the house. Santiago was so sad he was almost in a depression. Santi was in the streets with only a soccer ball alone. The thing he didnt know was that there was a call going on right now exactly the same moment in england and that will change his life.
"Sir you want me to give hiom a trial" (Rigby 76). Adam the scout called everysingle club in the premimer league (england) and only one accepted for santi to go on a trial and it is newcastle united an amazing club to grow in and amazing for youngsters. Adam went to mexico to get santi and told him about what happened. He also included that santi had one month to think about it and that in one month he would go to newcastle for a trial. Santiago thoguht to himself that it was stupid to fight with his grandpa again and to have many porblems so for the first week he ignored the oppurtunity.
"I accept! Im here and i bought my ticket" Santiago munez is going to newcastle for a trial at the club! Santi was at the airport left his grandparents and went to pursue his dream of being a soccer star. But there was one problam, the plain wasnt working well and so santiago was going to be late for the meeting for newcastle. Santiago was stressing and really wanted to be in time for the meeting. Santiago starting doubting his chances in newcastly and he started saying to himself that why should he get in a fight with his grandfather, make himself loose money, make himself go into so much pain just so that he gets a trial in newcastle and its not even guaranteed to play? santi really regretted going to the plane and he was there thinking. Will santi make it or not?
Santi arrived in london to the scouts house and he felt extremely sick. Santiago was stressing for the trial but he new he would made it. Finally the day come up and santi "starts playing line back, even though its not his position"(Rigby 121). Santiago is playing in nexcastle in the reserves substitution, so its the people who are not even playing's subs, so thats really low. It was raining that day and santiago had no idea of what proffesional was so he was playing poorly, reallly poorly. Santiago slipped many times, was selfish, never passed the ball, and missed many shots. The coach is not impressed by the first impression of the young kid, and he was sure that Santiago was a poor ole' joke and he was sure that the best thing to do is to let santiago go.
"Sorry coach, i will try my best next time" Santiago cried after his coach begging him. The coach said, "im sorry kid, there is no next time. This trial was short, i admit, but i seriously need to let you go." (Rigby 151) Santiago was so mad and went to the scout and went to stay in his house. He stayed locked up in his room for two consecutive days, thinking about what he had done wrong. One of his old friends from Mexico spotted him and asked him if they wanted to go out to refresh Santiago and santi refused, but the friend begged him and out of annoying him, santi accepted.
"Dance, Dance, DANCE!" (Rigby 193) Dance sanitago, you literally need to free your mind, santis friend said. Santiago got a little over limit and he woke up not in his apartment. He woke up panicking because he had betrayed the scout, so he called a taxi to get him. The taxi got him and there was another problem. The first team player Galvin Harris from Newcastle who was famous needed a cab urgent and santi was in that cab, so Galvin went into the same cab as santi, and for santi the rest is amazing.
January 5, 2026
Goal! The Dream Begins by Robert Rigby is the story of Santiago Munez who has a passion for soccer. Santiago lived in a poor neighborhood in Los Angeles, California. His life was hard. He would work long and hard days with his Father Hermen landscaping and rush to the field when he was done to play soccer. One day a British recruiter named Glen saw him playing by accident while he was visiting his family. Santiago did not only love to play soccer but he was also good at it, one of his coaches saw him play and said “God taught him to do that.”His father did not like him playing soccer and said it was a waste of time but Santigo had an opportunity to have a trial with New Castle but his family was poor and he had to find a way to fly to England. His grandmother and brother supported him and helped him along the way.
After struggling to find a way to make it there he did it then realized it was going to be much harder to make the team then he thought it would be. Some of the struggles he faced were hiding his asthma, speaking a different language, and never playing on turf. Along the way he meets people, including Roz the nurse, coach Dornhelm, and Gavin, one of his teammates who help Santiao to learn and grow. There was more to soccer in this book like him enjoying life, hanging out with friends, and going to parties.
This book raises important questions. Is it worth following your dreams even if you struggle a lot? If you have a talent do you have to work hard or do both? The book shows how it is also a global sport and that anyone can play soccer and how it could change your life.
Robert Rigby's writing style is easy to read but also has some challenging vocabulary words. The style makes you feel like you are on the journey with Santigao and you are a part of the team with him.
I would recommend this book to people who like sports, especially soccer. It is an exciting and motivating book to read. The book changed my thinking because If you try your best and work hard, opportunities will come and people might notice you more. Even though the opportunities come you still have to work hard and not give up and be persistent.
The book is important because it can teach lessons that go beyond soccer. It shows that talent can come from anywhere and that success often begins when someone believes in you and you believe in yourself. The story also shows that opportunities are not always fair or easy, especially for people like Santiago who do not have much money or support. Even though Santiago is not a real person, his journey is like the journeys of many real athletes and dreamers. That is why the story still inspires other readers today.
After struggling to find a way to make it there he did it then realized it was going to be much harder to make the team then he thought it would be. Some of the struggles he faced were hiding his asthma, speaking a different language, and never playing on turf. Along the way he meets people, including Roz the nurse, coach Dornhelm, and Gavin, one of his teammates who help Santiao to learn and grow. There was more to soccer in this book like him enjoying life, hanging out with friends, and going to parties.
This book raises important questions. Is it worth following your dreams even if you struggle a lot? If you have a talent do you have to work hard or do both? The book shows how it is also a global sport and that anyone can play soccer and how it could change your life.
Robert Rigby's writing style is easy to read but also has some challenging vocabulary words. The style makes you feel like you are on the journey with Santigao and you are a part of the team with him.
I would recommend this book to people who like sports, especially soccer. It is an exciting and motivating book to read. The book changed my thinking because If you try your best and work hard, opportunities will come and people might notice you more. Even though the opportunities come you still have to work hard and not give up and be persistent.
The book is important because it can teach lessons that go beyond soccer. It shows that talent can come from anywhere and that success often begins when someone believes in you and you believe in yourself. The story also shows that opportunities are not always fair or easy, especially for people like Santiago who do not have much money or support. Even though Santiago is not a real person, his journey is like the journeys of many real athletes and dreamers. That is why the story still inspires other readers today.
December 13, 2019
Goal The Dreams Begins is a story about this young Mexican kid that loves to play soccer and wants to be a professional when he grows up. The author Rigby, reveals some important insight into how his family feels about him playing soccer and how his father doesn't agree with them. The author's emphasis on Hernan's problem with Santiago's dream's sheds some light on the central conflict of the book. He wanted Santiago to work with him, instead of focusing on his goals, so that he could start up a company with him. Moving from Mexico and growing up in Los Angeles helped shaped the person that he would become because he used the experiences he went through to help him later in his life.
An agent named Glen saw him playing soccer within the Recreational League and made an appointment with Newcastle United to play professionally. Santiago wasn't playing that good through the few practices that he was given with the B team. He also had an asthma problem that he didn't tell the coaching team and the medical team that only made him play worse with the nerves mixed with the asthma attacks. He eventually started to play better and be more comfortable around the team, also was getting adjusted to the culture. He would then start to play for the real team and scored a lot of goals which made him get buzz around his name. I skipped parts of the book that didn't have to do with soccer or that just weren't important. The most emotional part of the book would have to be when Santiago's dad saw him play in one of those games where he scored multiple goals and this was just before he passed away. In my opinion, this was a 10/10 book because when I was younger I read this book and I aspired to live the life described in the book. I also watched the movie so this is a book that I hold very near my heart because it takes me back to the days that I used to play soccer and I wanted to Santiago.
An agent named Glen saw him playing soccer within the Recreational League and made an appointment with Newcastle United to play professionally. Santiago wasn't playing that good through the few practices that he was given with the B team. He also had an asthma problem that he didn't tell the coaching team and the medical team that only made him play worse with the nerves mixed with the asthma attacks. He eventually started to play better and be more comfortable around the team, also was getting adjusted to the culture. He would then start to play for the real team and scored a lot of goals which made him get buzz around his name. I skipped parts of the book that didn't have to do with soccer or that just weren't important. The most emotional part of the book would have to be when Santiago's dad saw him play in one of those games where he scored multiple goals and this was just before he passed away. In my opinion, this was a 10/10 book because when I was younger I read this book and I aspired to live the life described in the book. I also watched the movie so this is a book that I hold very near my heart because it takes me back to the days that I used to play soccer and I wanted to Santiago.
December 15, 2017
Goal! The dreams begin.
Before I start talking my review, I want to ask you, what is your goal in life? Have you ever wanted something so bad but somehow you can't have it because of circumstances coming to your way? I really like this book because it talks about the reality of being a professional athlete. Santigo Munez, the protagonist, wanted to become a professional soccer player, but his dad disagrees with his decision. "The only goal we have in life is feed our family, nothing else. You will be no damn soccer player" pg.105. This book also taught me about not giving up and following your dreams. Not letting people tell you what to do or what you can't do. It will be hard in the beginning but at the end of the way you will reach your goal.
I really enjoyed reading this book because I am a soccer player and sometimes I think about being a professional soccer player but at the same time, I think I will never get there. While I was reading this book, I started thinking how to become better each day, what else do I need to become a professional player? I know for fact that more than half of the people who try, they fail. It is not easy, but just like Santiago Said, "You 'll never know how good can you be if you never try" pg. 127. I highly recommend this book to everyone who has a dream. Who thinks life is hard but they still believe they can become great one day. Santiago Munez gave me a big lesson. "The only person who can tell me I suck playing FOOTBALL is you coach, but even if you tell me so, I'll prove you wrong" pg 197.
Before I start talking my review, I want to ask you, what is your goal in life? Have you ever wanted something so bad but somehow you can't have it because of circumstances coming to your way? I really like this book because it talks about the reality of being a professional athlete. Santigo Munez, the protagonist, wanted to become a professional soccer player, but his dad disagrees with his decision. "The only goal we have in life is feed our family, nothing else. You will be no damn soccer player" pg.105. This book also taught me about not giving up and following your dreams. Not letting people tell you what to do or what you can't do. It will be hard in the beginning but at the end of the way you will reach your goal.
I really enjoyed reading this book because I am a soccer player and sometimes I think about being a professional soccer player but at the same time, I think I will never get there. While I was reading this book, I started thinking how to become better each day, what else do I need to become a professional player? I know for fact that more than half of the people who try, they fail. It is not easy, but just like Santiago Said, "You 'll never know how good can you be if you never try" pg. 127. I highly recommend this book to everyone who has a dream. Who thinks life is hard but they still believe they can become great one day. Santiago Munez gave me a big lesson. "The only person who can tell me I suck playing FOOTBALL is you coach, but even if you tell me so, I'll prove you wrong" pg 197.
May 18, 2018
I would recommend this book to others because it shows the struggles of someone trying to play their favorite sport for a living. I would highly recommend it to soccer players or people who like sports books. This book is about Santiago Munez who plays soccer in Los Angeles and is very good at it. Santiago was poor children who lost his parents when he was still a baby. His parents abandoned him. One day, Santiago founded his passion, soccer. He asked to play for a club named Amerigo Jr.This team was a bit of strange because the minimum players for a club is 22, this club had 18 players. Santiago was lucky because he actually played for the team: “ Santi was playing for the squad, it’s a good thing for him”. Santiago was a good player but his club was poor. Santiago is discovered by a former professional soccer player (Glen) who could potentially get him signed to a professional team. His favorite team, Newcastle, will allow him a trial but there are some obstacles. His father says he must work for him because of his family’s lack of money. When his father wanted a new truck, he took the money Santiago was saving to travel to Newcastle. Santiago’s dreams seemed to be ruined. But, his grandmother had been saving up money for a long time and Santiago was able to go to Newcastle for a rough trial.
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March 31, 2023Devin Chimbo
Me gusta este libro porque puedo relacionarme con Santiago. Tengo mucha pasión por el fútbol y espero jugar en Europa. Parece que estoy loco, pero nunca se sabe. Quiero jugar fútbol en la universidad, al menos. Siento exactamente cómo se siente Santiago cuando juega. Tiene miedo de cometer errores y siente que no es lo suficientemente bueno. Tiene miedo de los entrenadores al principio, pero luego se enfrenta a sus desafíos. Siempre tengo miedo de cometer errores, pero siempre me digo a mí mismo si juego con mucha pasión, los errores no importan. Santiago proviene de una familia pobre y sus padres se mudaron a otro país para darle el mejor futuro. Mis padres también vinieron de una familia pobre y vinieron a los Estados Unidos para mí. Santiago me enseñó varias cosas. No renuncies a tus sueños, demuestra que todos están equivocados, y nunca será fácil.
Me gusta este libro porque puedo relacionarme con Santiago. Tengo mucha pasión por el fútbol y espero jugar en Europa. Parece que estoy loco, pero nunca se sabe. Quiero jugar fútbol en la universidad, al menos. Siento exactamente cómo se siente Santiago cuando juega. Tiene miedo de cometer errores y siente que no es lo suficientemente bueno. Tiene miedo de los entrenadores al principio, pero luego se enfrenta a sus desafíos. Siempre tengo miedo de cometer errores, pero siempre me digo a mí mismo si juego con mucha pasión, los errores no importan. Santiago proviene de una familia pobre y sus padres se mudaron a otro país para darle el mejor futuro. Mis padres también vinieron de una familia pobre y vinieron a los Estados Unidos para mí. Santiago me enseñó varias cosas. No renuncies a tus sueños, demuestra que todos están equivocados, y nunca será fácil.
December 13, 2017
I would recommend this book to any one who wants to become a professional soccer player and/or want to learn about the exciting journey of becoming one, as it is filled with good information on the journey of becoming a professional soccer player. This story does a great job of demonstrating an example of a struggling young star to becoming a known professional soccer player. Santiago is a star of his local team but struggles to go professional in soccer because of the many challenges and obstacles that he has to face, many that he was born into. Santiago was able to overcome his challenges, and the book then shows an exciting journey of how Santiago became professional in England, including teammates that are bad influences and his father's death.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2017
i thought this book was great it was about a boy named Santiago that was a good soccer player nobody knew tho only his friend glen. Glen was a famous soccer player and played on a team but quit so he is now helping Santiago make the team as well so he try's out fails try's out a again and makes the team. He joins the team they were already in a tournament and just needed to win one more game to win the league so they let Santiago play he got injured pretty bad. They gave him a penalty and it was the last min of the game and he scored everybody was screaming and glad that was the winning goal.
November 27, 2019
This book is awesome. I love soccer, and it makes me happy to see a book that shows the struggles of a professional player. Most of the pros you see to day are attacked in the media and made to look as if they have the perfect life, but that is not the case. I also really liked how it showed the progression of him playing street ball all the way to being a pro. Lots of the pros nowadays are found, and progress into world class athletes. The story is really good, and I am definitely going to read the sequel.
May 24, 2019
If your a soccer player you’ll definitely like this book. It talks about how a teen named Santiago fights and gets his way up to become a pro/famous soccer player. He starts a a poor town just playing with his friends in the neighborhood and scouts see him play so they give him a chance, once his getting famous his best frien starts getting lost in drugs and then santiago try’s helping him out but then he gets involved and something bad happens... you should find out!!
November 7, 2019
I really liked this book because it shows a real life story that combines the beautiful game soccer with a kid life. He went through a lot and struggled through a lot but at the end he finally achieved his dream. His mom died but she believed that her son can achieve what he wants and his dream. And the reason i liked this book a lot is that it has a ton of parts in it that relates exactly to my life
April 13, 2022
A young man named Santiago growing up in Los Angeles. He is a soccer player who starts off the book working at a Chinese restaurant, but he eventually gets to play professionally. Santiago's dad did not believe in him and told him that it's just a dream and dreams never come true so when his dad was not home his grandma gave him her life savings for the plane ticket to England.
, but he eventually gets to play professionally. My favorite part is when Santiago proofs everyone wrong.
, but he eventually gets to play professionally. My favorite part is when Santiago proofs everyone wrong.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2022
Me gusta este libro porque el autor usa un vocabulario adecuado para los principiantes. Es fácil para leer y la historia también es interesante. No me interesa mucho leer sobre el fútbol, pero el libro fue divertido, especialmente porque tiene fotos.
November 9, 2022
"Goal!: The Dream Begins" by Robert Rigby is the first novel of an inspirational sport trilogy. It covers vocabulary related to soccer, family, goals, quality of life, identity, and immigration. This book is ideal for intermediate (B1-B2) English learners.
January 17, 2018
The book was very good, it was about the struggle he had to go to become what he wanted to be.I would read it again because we have a connection.
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