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Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin
Just in time for the World Cup, an inspiring story of a Brazilian boy who dreams of being a soccer star — and the sister who steps in to help his team win a game.
When Paulo Marcelo Feliciano becomes a soccer star, crowds will cheer his famous name! Then his mother won’t have to work long hours, and he won’t have to work all day on a fishing boat. For now, Paulo takes care of his little sister Maria (she teaches him reading, he teaches her soccer moves) and walks her to school, stopping to give his teammates cheese buns as they set out to shine people’s shoes or perform for the tourist crowd. At day’s end, it’s time to plan the game, where Givo will bounce, Carlos will kick, and Jose will fly! But when Jose falls on his wrist, will the team finally break the rules and let a girl show her stuff? Set in a country whose resilient soccer stars are often shaped by poverty, this uplifting tale of transcending the expected scores a big win for all.
When Paulo Marcelo Feliciano becomes a soccer star, crowds will cheer his famous name! Then his mother won’t have to work long hours, and he won’t have to work all day on a fishing boat. For now, Paulo takes care of his little sister Maria (she teaches him reading, he teaches her soccer moves) and walks her to school, stopping to give his teammates cheese buns as they set out to shine people’s shoes or perform for the tourist crowd. At day’s end, it’s time to plan the game, where Givo will bounce, Carlos will kick, and Jose will fly! But when Jose falls on his wrist, will the team finally break the rules and let a girl show her stuff? Set in a country whose resilient soccer stars are often shaped by poverty, this uplifting tale of transcending the expected scores a big win for all.
Hardcover
First published April 8, 2014
3 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Mina Javaherbin
8 books13 followersMina Javaherbin was born in Iran and immigrated to the United States, where she is now a practicing architect. She lives in Southern California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 5, 2014
Paulo Marcelo Feliciano (Felino) loves playing soccer on the beach with his friends in Brazil. Although they work hard at various jobs during the day, they live for soccer and dream of fame and fortune once they become soccer stars. But the games they play are for males only, and even though Felino has been teaching his younger sister about the sport, the team won't let her join them. When one of his teammates is injured during a game, it is finally time for a change, and his sister Maria is allowed to play, symbolizing possible societal changes as well. The story tugs at the heart and offers hope for the future while the illustrations, created in sepia ink with color added digitally, are lively and somehow manage to depict the youngsters' harsh lives but also the beauty of their surroundings. Who knows what dreams this picture book may inspire in others?
December 23, 2015
Boychild also loved this one about a soccer fan and player in Brazil.
October 3, 2018
Summary-Soccer Star tells a story of a boy named Paulo Marcelo Feliciano and his dreams of being a famous soccer star from Brazil. He hopes to be a symbol for young children and show that he can come from a poor family and become eventually become a soccer champion. After work, Paulo and his sister gather their friends and play soccer on the beach. However, Paulo's friends do not include his sister Maria because she is a girl. Every day she patiently waits for her turn and every day she asks and is turned away. Until one day, a member of Paulo's team is injured and they can no longer play because they do not have enough people. However, the team takes a vote and decides to finally include Maria in the game in which she scores a goal.
Personal Response- This book is not only great for children who play sports but participate in group activities during school too. I can connect with this book because I have witnessed a group of boys or girls casting out another because they are different. This is a feel good story which reinforces to me that we should accept everyone no matter what makes us different but accept and include everyone.
Note about illustrations: This book is illustrated by Renato Alarcao and he uses his incredible skills by incorporating colored pencils to his illustrations. In the beginning, of the story Renato is able to capture the feel of the house and neighborhood by showing the reader the poverty stricken area Paulo and his family live in. It infers that they are hardworking and able to make due with what they have, which is clearly their love for each other. He is able to also use his illustrations to capture the Latino essence of this world.
Reader Response: One way to use this book as a lesson is by incorporating social studies to the lesson. Some children may never have heard or researched Brazil, so doing a social studies project with a group or partners could help them understand why Paulo plays on the beach, why his houses seem to be build on top of each other, and to expose them to a different culture. Another way to incorporate this book into a lesson is to introduce similarities among peers as an ice breaker. This way they can take notes on the people in the class to have similarities between peers and they can begin to look at how each of them are similar instead of different. This activity could be used to combat bullying and inclusion for everyone.
Personal Response- This book is not only great for children who play sports but participate in group activities during school too. I can connect with this book because I have witnessed a group of boys or girls casting out another because they are different. This is a feel good story which reinforces to me that we should accept everyone no matter what makes us different but accept and include everyone.
Note about illustrations: This book is illustrated by Renato Alarcao and he uses his incredible skills by incorporating colored pencils to his illustrations. In the beginning, of the story Renato is able to capture the feel of the house and neighborhood by showing the reader the poverty stricken area Paulo and his family live in. It infers that they are hardworking and able to make due with what they have, which is clearly their love for each other. He is able to also use his illustrations to capture the Latino essence of this world.
Reader Response: One way to use this book as a lesson is by incorporating social studies to the lesson. Some children may never have heard or researched Brazil, so doing a social studies project with a group or partners could help them understand why Paulo plays on the beach, why his houses seem to be build on top of each other, and to expose them to a different culture. Another way to incorporate this book into a lesson is to introduce similarities among peers as an ice breaker. This way they can take notes on the people in the class to have similarities between peers and they can begin to look at how each of them are similar instead of different. This activity could be used to combat bullying and inclusion for everyone.
June 12, 2014
Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by Renato Alarcão is set in Brazil, where this year's World Cup is being played. Young Paulo loves soccer and hopes to become a soccer star like his heroes Garrincha, Pelé and Ronaldo. Each day, however, before any soccer game can be played, Paulo must walk his sister Maria to school. Afterwards, as he makes his way to work, he visits his fellow team mates where they work. Carlos shines shoes, Jose dives for money, Givo is working on carnival floats, and Paulo works with Senhor da Silva on his small fishing boat.
After work, the soccer game begins. Whenever Paulo and his friends play, Maria begs to be allowed to join in, but the answer is always "not this time." One evening, when Jose injures himself in a game, Paulo thinks it may be time to give Maria the chance she has been waiting for. Can Maria play and score as well as she thinks she can?
In this multilayered story the reader is introduced to Paulo and his mother and sister. The family lives in poverty, like all of Paulo's friends and even though they are really just children, the boys must leave school and work at a young age to help their families survive.
Soccer is a beloved sport around the world and that is true for Brazil as well. At the end of a long day of work, playing a game of soccer with friends provides a bit of escape from the poverty surrounding them. For Paulo, soccer also provides a dream of excaping that poverty. Many of Brazil's best soccer players were also poor kids who worked and loved to play soccer with friends at the end of the day, so on some level, Paulo's dream seems believable.
Paulo has a strong sense of friendship with the other players on his team, taking the time to stop by and see each one, on this day even sharing his breakfast cheese buns with them as he goes along.
(Spoiler Alert)
The fourth layer of Soccer Star breaks the gender barrier of no girls on the team when they vote to let Maria play and it turns out she can play with the best of them.
What a great story for young readers. To see dreams kept alive despite the difficult circumstances in which these kids live is really inspirational. The positive message that you can overcome difficulties is strong and hope rules the day throughout the story. Javaherbin doesn't sugar coat the poverty in this honestly told narrative, however. The realistic ink illustrations add much to the enjoyment of Soccer Star.
This review was originally posted on Randomly Reading
After work, the soccer game begins. Whenever Paulo and his friends play, Maria begs to be allowed to join in, but the answer is always "not this time." One evening, when Jose injures himself in a game, Paulo thinks it may be time to give Maria the chance she has been waiting for. Can Maria play and score as well as she thinks she can?
In this multilayered story the reader is introduced to Paulo and his mother and sister. The family lives in poverty, like all of Paulo's friends and even though they are really just children, the boys must leave school and work at a young age to help their families survive.
Soccer is a beloved sport around the world and that is true for Brazil as well. At the end of a long day of work, playing a game of soccer with friends provides a bit of escape from the poverty surrounding them. For Paulo, soccer also provides a dream of excaping that poverty. Many of Brazil's best soccer players were also poor kids who worked and loved to play soccer with friends at the end of the day, so on some level, Paulo's dream seems believable.
Paulo has a strong sense of friendship with the other players on his team, taking the time to stop by and see each one, on this day even sharing his breakfast cheese buns with them as he goes along.
(Spoiler Alert)
The fourth layer of Soccer Star breaks the gender barrier of no girls on the team when they vote to let Maria play and it turns out she can play with the best of them.
What a great story for young readers. To see dreams kept alive despite the difficult circumstances in which these kids live is really inspirational. The positive message that you can overcome difficulties is strong and hope rules the day throughout the story. Javaherbin doesn't sugar coat the poverty in this honestly told narrative, however. The realistic ink illustrations add much to the enjoyment of Soccer Star.
This review was originally posted on Randomly Reading
April 7, 2014
Review Copy: Hard copy from publisher
In Soccer Star readers meet a young boy named Paulo Marcelo Feliciano who lives in Brazil. He loves soccer and loves to learn. He spends much of his day working though so is unable to go to school. In the late afternoon and evening his younger sister shares what she learns at school and he shares soccer with her.
Like Javaherbin's previous book Goal! we see hope and perseverance amidst difficult living situations. Though times are hard for the characters, they have an optimistic outlook and live life with joy. They are dreaming big and they don't hold back.
Elementary age students are often intrigued by issues of justice. Seeing that children are missing school to earn money is sure to catch their attention. The fact that girls aren't allowed on the soccer team will also likely have some students questioning the lack of fairness there too. I anticipate lively discussions as a result of reading this book with students.
Beyond that, soccer is a topic that crosses gender, class, and geographic lines. Soccer is a language that many children understand so I know this book will speak to them.
And last, but not least, the illustrations are gorgeous. There is a warmth surrounding the characters and the pictures are joyful. They are also full of life and energy. Everything is very pretty and clean, but looking closely readers can still see the broken pieces of netting in the goal and notice things like the children playing without soccer gear.
I look forward to sharing Soccer Star with staff and students. It's a positive text and will likely inspire readers to work for change in the world.
The original review was posted at http://readingtl.blogspot.com/2014/04...
In Soccer Star readers meet a young boy named Paulo Marcelo Feliciano who lives in Brazil. He loves soccer and loves to learn. He spends much of his day working though so is unable to go to school. In the late afternoon and evening his younger sister shares what she learns at school and he shares soccer with her.
Like Javaherbin's previous book Goal! we see hope and perseverance amidst difficult living situations. Though times are hard for the characters, they have an optimistic outlook and live life with joy. They are dreaming big and they don't hold back.
Elementary age students are often intrigued by issues of justice. Seeing that children are missing school to earn money is sure to catch their attention. The fact that girls aren't allowed on the soccer team will also likely have some students questioning the lack of fairness there too. I anticipate lively discussions as a result of reading this book with students.
Beyond that, soccer is a topic that crosses gender, class, and geographic lines. Soccer is a language that many children understand so I know this book will speak to them.
And last, but not least, the illustrations are gorgeous. There is a warmth surrounding the characters and the pictures are joyful. They are also full of life and energy. Everything is very pretty and clean, but looking closely readers can still see the broken pieces of netting in the goal and notice things like the children playing without soccer gear.
I look forward to sharing Soccer Star with staff and students. It's a positive text and will likely inspire readers to work for change in the world.
The original review was posted at http://readingtl.blogspot.com/2014/04...
March 25, 2014
Having enjoyed GOAL by Mina Javaherbin, a Texas Bluebonnet nominee a couple of years ago, I was excited to receive an advance copy of SOCCER STAR. SOCCER STAR is set in Brazil, which is where this year's World Cup will take place. Readers are introduced to Paulo Marcelo Felciano and his goal to become a soccer star so that his mom won't have to work so much. As Paulo goes about his day, taking care of his sister Maria, and fishing to help his family, the reader meets his teammates, who are also working odd jobs to help their families. Along with this look into the poverty in this area, you also see how Paulo and Maria help each other. Maria teaches her brother things she learns in school, and Paulo helps her with soccer. Maria asks often to play on Paulo's soccer team, but some of the boys are determined to keep their team a "boys only" team, and so even though Maria is a very good soccer player, she is told no. When a player gets hurt, the team must decide whether to bring in Maria to help win the big game.
This book provides many opportunities for discussions about overcoming poverty, working hard to achieve goals, and taking care of your family. Just as with GOAL, readers learn about a culture different from their own, which opens up their world just a bit.
The vibrant illustrations by Renato Alarcao bring to life SOCCER STAR with beautiful colors and a sharpness on each page.
I read this book to several different grade levels, including 6th grade, and all groups enjoyed the story as well as the illustrations! Score!
This book provides many opportunities for discussions about overcoming poverty, working hard to achieve goals, and taking care of your family. Just as with GOAL, readers learn about a culture different from their own, which opens up their world just a bit.
The vibrant illustrations by Renato Alarcao bring to life SOCCER STAR with beautiful colors and a sharpness on each page.
I read this book to several different grade levels, including 6th grade, and all groups enjoyed the story as well as the illustrations! Score!
April 20, 2014
Through showing one Brazilian boy’s story of dreams of becoming a soccer star, the author gives a glimpse of children in Brazil who have risen out of poverty through soccer. Like basketball and football dreams in the U.S., children who love a sport, and play it every time possible to improve, some do escape their tough lives. Through the story, on his way to take his little sister to school and then to the fishing boat where he works, Paulo meets his other teammates at their jobs. Mina Javaherbin smoothly shows that all the boys are working, “not” going to school. One dives for tourists, another paints floats for parades, an still another shines shoes. The wording is so clever, sharing dreams even there, like in the visit with the boy who shines shoes, Paulo says “I know that one day his fancy footwork will score us brilliant goals.” At the end of the day, the boys have a game, even though tired from a full day of work. The illustrations are beautiful realistic depictions of each part that is told. The book will be wonderful for children who are in similar situations (mother leaving for a long work day, taking care of younger siblings).
August 10, 2016
Soccer Star is a book that is both informative and entertaining. It's imagery is rich and colorful, and its text features hints of another language - Portuguese. Students learn of the impoverished communities in Brazil, and their cultures' love for soccer. The book is centered around a brother and sister, Paulo and Maria, who look out for each other academically and athletically. As Paulo cares for his sister and walks her to school, he sets off to work for the day - highlighting poverty within the area. Paulo has dreams of becoming a soccer star in order to change the future for his family. To my dismay, Maria is not allowed to join the soccer team because of the "no girls allowed" rule. Yet, the rule is put to the test when one of the players becomes injured. Maria is just as, if not more, talented than the other players. In my opinion, her position on the team should go undisputed. This book emphasizes equality between gender portrayed via the love of a brother and sister. Additionally, it introduces students to different cultures, languages, geographical locations, and values.
February 28, 2016
Paulo Marcelo Feliciano dreams of the day that he will be a soccer star so that his mother will no longer have to work so hard. The story starts with Paulo and his sister, Maria, starting their days together-Paulo heading to work and his sister heading to school. His sister teaches him things that she is learning at school and Paulo teaches her soccer. She longs to be able to play on her brothers team-but no girls are allowed. The day goes by and it is game time! Everything is going well until the goalie, Jose, injures his wrist. What are they to do without a goalie? Will they break the rule of no girls aloud and let Maria step in?
May 25, 2014
Gorgeous illustrations set off this story of a young boy in Brasil who dreams of being a soccer star. He, along with his teammate friends, spend their days working various jobs to earn money to help support their families living in poverty, while their evenings are spent playing soccer. Paulo's little sister wants to play, too, but can the boys team be convinced she could be a help to them? A story that delights as much as it puts a positive light on hardworking children striving for their dreams.
March 18, 2014
This book is set in Brazil and tells the story of young children living in poverty. Their days are full of work while their heads are full of dreams. Maybe they will be future soccer stars like Garrincha, Pelé and Ronaldo and find a way to lift their families out of poverty. The dreams give light and energy to the hardships of everyday and the evening soccer game is a treasured, shared time daily.
August 1, 2014
It took me awhile to get this book but it was worth the wait. Great story and beautiful illustrations. I thought it painted a picture of what it could be like growing up in poverty in Brazil, but through hard work, you can have dreams and work towards your goal. The book leaves certain inferences up to the reader to solve (ex. why didn't Felino go to school?) and I like how it also discussed inclusion of girls on a team.
June 17, 2014
This book came out just in time for the World Cup! It's a great story for Elementary school kids who like soccer, both boys and girls. The family portrayed in the book lives in some poverty, but the brother and sister love playing soccer. The little girl, even though she's good, is usually not allowed to play with the boys. One day, though, something happens and she saves the day! It is beautifully illustrated and great for any audience.
July 18, 2014
What a winning combination: Soccer, Brazil, and girl power! This picture book will be great when we get back to school to capture the residual World Cup fever, not only for the soccer playing involved, but also for the natural way it introduces the real-world lives of children who live in Brazil. Not to mention that the little sister saves the day, not unlike a few of the games we watched when very young players were subbed in, to score in short order.
October 9, 2017
A beautifully rendered glimpse at one Brazilian boy's determination to realise his dream of being a soccer star. A classic tale of rising above the mire of poverty and hardship that will leave you glowing all the more because all too often this is the true story of many of Brazil's supreme soccer team. Illustrated by Renato Alarcao with warmth and heart, you'll be cheering for young Paulo Feliciano, too.
October 22, 2015
This gorgeous picture book is about a boy living in poverty in Brazil. Each day, he goes out with a fisherman to make money, but at night, his sister teaches him reading and math AND he gets to play soccer. It shows all the kids on his team and how each one has to work hard to help their family, but soccer is a way out. This one will be great for our social issues unit.
December 9, 2014
With World Cup Soccer (football) in full swing, this books sheds some light on Brazil, poverty, and Football!
This is a very nicely done book. The pictures are nice, just an over all well done book!
This is a very nicely done book. The pictures are nice, just an over all well done book!
April 28, 2015
I am not a sport person, but this book is a good example of many everyday things. Teamwork, determination, and changes. Even though I don't much care for sports, I have to say that this book is interesting and my son had fun reading it with me. Plus the illustrations were great.
November 11, 2014
It is rare to have a book written by Iranian author and Brazilian illustrator.
The story centers around soccer but the message about girl power in soccer is charming too. Illustration sketches beauty in Brazil greatly
The story centers around soccer but the message about girl power in soccer is charming too. Illustration sketches beauty in Brazil greatly
August 29, 2016
This book celebrates the soccer culture of Brazil and the dreams of working children in poor neighborhoods with a soccer ball and a group of friends to form a team as they work toward a national goal and their own aspirations.
March 26, 2014
Very nice. Little soccer fans will love the way the elements of the game are illustrated and everyone else will enjoy the story. Just in time for the world cup!
March 11, 2016
The pictures are stunning in this story of a boy who finally allows his sister on his soccer team.
June 20, 2014
A good story about perseverance set in Brazil.
June 25, 2014
Beautiful illustrations, great story. Very realistic! A great mix of Brazilian culture, soccer culture, and dreaming big.
I may be biased.
I may be biased.
July 14, 2014
great. inspiring. teaches kids of all backgrounds and lifestyles to try hard and have hope that your dreams will come true.
July 21, 2014
Practice hard at something you love for the chance at a better life!
July 22, 2014
Beautifully written and illustrated story of hope and empowerment.
August 11, 2014
Picture book. Great approach to international poverty, well done story on the kid level.
August 14, 2014
A sweet hopeful story with art that matches to a t.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews