Sean, a whimsical 2nd grader, wants to be the great Leo Messi, and he’s willing to work hard for his cause. Join Sean as he battles fears, bullies, nagging parents, and tiresome teachers in pursuit of his dream to become the best football player in the world. A children’s book about football, math, practice and persistence. Not necessarily in this order. Illustrations: Elettra *This story is inspired by true events :)
Award-winning author Tanya Preminger strongly believes in the power of literature as a means to growth, education, and the cultivation of curious, compassionate, happy children. Her books appeared on the best selling list in the US, UK, Germany and Italy and translated to German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Hindi, Japanese and Chinese.
I have to admit, that when I first saw this title, I had no idea what “Messi” was supposed to be. Turns out that Messi is a star soccer player (think Beckam), and eight-year-old Sean is obsessed with becoming like him.
The book opens with what could be a scene from my childhood, math issues. Adter second grade, I just didn’t get it. I can remember the frustrations my parents and I felt as I tried and tried to understand word problems (Let’s face it, nobody really cares when the two trains pass each other!).
This is a great little story on how one set of parents use soccer to help their child excel. One thing did bother me, though, was that Sean called his parents “Mommy” and “Daddy.” Without any younger sibling that the readers could see, this seemed to make Sean too childish. Therefore, “Sean Want to be Messi,” which receives 4 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
Sean wants to be Messi is a children’s book about Sean struggling to convince everyone that he wants to be as good Messy. While everyone constantly tells him to be quiet or to do as he is told, he defies all requests and insists on pursuing what he wants.
While I did find a few editing issues and was not finding the present tense of the narrative easy to read, the story kept in intrigued to find out what was to happen in the end.
The author had also gone as far as creating two versions of the book just to ease the audience based on their knowledge of calling the game soccer or football.
There was more text than illustrations and what existed was not substantial, however, it did add color and assist in visually trying to imagine the story.
I believe the author has potential in creating acceptable children material. The layout was good and inspires children to exercise and play.
Saw this mentioned somewhere and thought my grandson might like it, so wanted to read it and see what it was about {plus the kid does not live right around me}, and he might {probably would}.
Sean Wants to be Messi Sean Goes To Barcelona: A children's book about soccer and goals. US edition (Sean Wants To Be Messi 2) Sean Tackles London: A children's book about soccer and teamwork. US edition. (Sean Wants To Be messi 3)
Please note, there are American and British/UK versions of these books, the main difference is of course "soccer" versus "football".
Did notice some reviews that have me wondering what their criteria is; 3 stars because of ONE spelling issue? 1 star because they book was physical and scratched up {not issue with what they read, issue with customer service/condition of physical, and didn't say whether they'd even tried to get replacement/refund}, stupid things that have nothing to do with what the rating system is for as far as reviewing book content.
HOWEVER: after reading book 2 and 3, {points below}, this one didn't deserve a 4, no way, and below explains why. {Thought in this book that it was basically cute/not cute whining, but 3 books of that manipulative whining ungrateful crap was more than too much.} The review is from #3 which talked about 2 and 3, and to an extent this one.
Kindle Unlimited
Does this ungrateful brat EVER SHUT up WHINING? A fear of heights or issue with that is not his business nor his concern, especially considering that the camp he talks about was paid by the adults not him AND so was the soccer camp in the first story which he had to be bribed to actually do after it being paid for AND the second story where a plane ticket AND a game and other things were paid for him yet he spent the whole trip whining on about buy him a scarf, buy him a shirt, buy him this that and the other. NO, brat boy who doesn't know the London tube system should not be telling the 2 adults talking about which way to go to hurry up or he'd be late for the soccer came THEY paid for, and if they don't take the right one the brat will be late, duh. A kid with no job, 8 years old, gets away with arguing about whether he should brush his teeth or not, and that he is going to make loads of money playing soccer, years from then if EVER, so would have them fixed then, uh what, plus the point is they PARENTS should be making is that he WILL brush his nasty teeth every single day and that he doesn't get to decide otherwise. No, the kid doesn't get to just steal his father's cell phone either, especially with nothing being said even though the father is "not happy", it's HIS phone and he's the PARENT. NO, the kid doesn't get to answer "Who cares?" when told information, either.
Oh, so HOLD ON -- the family is from USA, they bought tickets to go to London for soccer camp for a WEEK and before to Spain for soccer match at a stadium, no freaking way brat boy needs his attitude nor being spoiled and getting away with all sorts of crap AND STILL getting plane trips and stadium tickets and sports clothing all the while being rude and ungrateful, UH UH. Why is it only the American kids are portrayed as spoiled brats in these stories? Which one is the 'joker', hello, it's a main part supposedly of story. And now story does yet another switch the scene no warning, and kid is whining yet again about buying him something new/expensive. Then whiny brat doesn't want sightseeing, no matter what is suggested, he whines for shopping. Then brat boy complains to his mother they are a 'team' so everyone needs to think of others too, yet he is only thinking of himself. Jeezus now brat boy is talking about some kind of made up game, which of course involves him spending their money and getting to go shopping. Adding in if they see a hairdresser's he gets to also spend more of their money on getting his hair cut, btw, is not 'cunning' it's being a stingy manipulative brat, and follows it up by telling his mother she is the worst mother ever in the world.
When one of the parents talk about anything here, then brat boy is like whatever who cares; then starts mouthing off that's he's a better player than so and so, and when told that sometimes a player has to do certain things argues back no that's not the 'Barcelona' way, although evidently the brat way is to get all sorts of team merchandise whined out of his parents then continue to disobey, not listen, and argue. NO, brat boy does not get to run out of a bus and go to stores to 'window shop' when he's just been told no, several times, by both parents, and not get in to trouble. You have GOT to be kidding me; the scene AGAIN changes, boom, so what happened. OMG the kid is whining and arguing AGAIN, this time about the haircut, AGAIN. And AGAIN, one of the SUPPOSED parents GIVES IN to whiny ungrateful brat boy. If they're doing it in order of age, why would the kids be standing in groups of the teams they were on. Oh, look, brat boy who was lecturing his parents about 'teamwork' and how Barcelona camp does things, interrupts everyone's ceremony after he gets his certificate of course, to mess with the soccer ball and the basketball hoop. The standing father holds the backback, you know that thing that is worn on the back, of a kid that is sitting so has a place for the backback on his back or in his lap.... After reading 3 of these stories, back to back, and realizing what an overall totally ungrateful, whiny, bratty, manipulative SNOT this overgrown child of an 8/9 year old is, there is NO WAY I'd let my grandson read this crap; he is NEVER going to be allowed to act that crappy.
“It took me 17 years and 114 days to become an overnight success.” – Leo Andrés Messi
Israeli author Tanya Preminger was born in Russia, lived in the US, and now resides in Israel. She strongly believes in the power of literature as a means to growth, education, and the cultivation of curious, compassionate, happy children. To date she has published three books in both a UK and US version. Her books are exceptionally well illustrated by Elettra Cudignotto.
Sean is a young lad whom we meet while doing homework with his mother’s guidance. Sean concentrates more on the soccer player Messi than his arithmetic. ‘“Mommy, I don’t need math, I’m stupid. I’m going to be a soccer player.” Sean smiles happily and sneaks a glance at the mirror on the back wall. He fixes his hair with his hand, picturing himself in a soccer stadium in front of the TV cameras. Mommy closes her eyes. She takes a long breath. “You are not stupid. Nobody is born with all the skills. They come with practice. Just like you practice soccer, you need to practice math.” And therein lies one of the many lessons contained n this fine book.
Sean signs up for soccer but is nervous and unable to leave the car when his mother takes him to the playing field. Sean argues with Aidan in math class as to who is the better soccer player – Messi or Ronaldo only to be cautioned by the teacher to use class time for study. At recess Sean and Aidan practice soccer only to be bullied by the older taller Hunter. At home Sean would rather watch soccer on TV than go to bed and that, too cases a conflict with his father and mother. Sean practices soccer with his Daddy who encourages to play soccer with kids his own age “Size is not what determines a good player. Good players think of ways to outsmart their opponents. They plan their attacks.’ At school Sean shies away form competition and the trainer passes on his joining until one of the players is injured and Sean is encouraged to replace him. And after the game Sean’s mother tricks him into solving math problems that relate to soccer themes. Sean is a winner all around.
Very well written and illustrated, this fine little book is not only entertaining but also holds many lessons about sports behavior – and human behavior in general. Excellent!
Sean is a second grader who is obsessed with soccer, especially one player named Leo Messi. He seems uninterested in finishing his homework or paying attention in school. He is excited to join soccer club to perfect his skill, but upon arrival, he refuses to play. His mother is upset with him. Both parents encourage Sean to overcome his fears of inadequacy and start developing his game skills. One day, a sixth grader bullies him and throws Sean's soccer ball over the fence. One day a player is injured and an opportunity arises for Sean to assist. I am not sure I approve of Sean's mother's response, but Sean learns a valuable lesson about himself and the game.
Recommended as a beginning chapter book for new or reluctant readers. The book has a few colorful illustrations to keep the story flowing. Soccer fans will particularly enjoy reading it.
I just previewed the ebook edition of this book to see if my son would be interested in it, and he totally will. This book is written in the tone that is perfect for kids in 2nd-4th grade to read on their own. What I love most about this book is that it's REAL. It's about Sean, a 2nd grader, who is obsessed with soccer and does not want to do his homework. When it comes time to join a soccer league he gets scared and cries and they go home without him playing. Eventually the mother bribes him with buying soccer cards to go and play soccer with kids his own age (hello, that's my kind of parenting, haha, when they need that extra nudge) and he ends up loving it and finding out he can do his math homework. Overall, it was a solid 4 star book that will grab the attention of young ones! I appreciate how real the author kept this, you can tell she must have children of her own!
Tanya Preminger, the author, and Elettra Cudignotto, the illustrator, can be justly proud of this colorful book. It is beautiful, the story is just what children want to read, and it is inspiring. It is about an eight-year-old second grader, Sean, who wants to become a soccer player as good as the famed twenty-seven-year-old Lionel Andres Messi. The book is about the battles he must fight to accomplish his goal, battles that all kids must face. Despite his strong desire to be a famous soccer player, Sean is extremely nervous. The book teaches Sean and readers the value of overcoming fears, practice, taking risks, perseverance, and taking advantage of situations. Children will enjoy this book.
Messi is an ace soccer player on the team from Barcelona. Young Sean dreams of one day becoming just like Messi. Sean would rather think about soccer than math problems any day. He doesn't like math but he sure does like soccer. When Sean's mommy grants his wish and pays for him to join a kids soccer club, Sean is overjoyed - until he arrives at the practice field. Many of the other players are bigger than him; he's afraid of being hurt so he begs his mommy to take him home. Will he ever achieve his dream of playing soccer?
This is a charming book that teaches children to overcome their fears. Beautifully illustrated, it is the first book in a series.
Note: A copy of this book was provided by the author.
Sean loves soccer as much as he hates math, and it seems that nothing his mother can do will change that. She enrolls him in a soccer course, and he eventually overcomes his shyness and plays, scoring several goals. His dreams of becoming like his hero, Leo Messi, cause him to figure out how much money he would have to make in order to buy his mother an expensive house, and voila, he learns that math has a role to play even in an athlete’s life.
Sean Wants to be Messi by Tanya Preminger is a great book for youngsters, using fantastic art and a compelling story that will not only entertain young readers, but provide a lesson on the importance of education. I received a complimentary copy of this book which I give five stars. A stunning addition to your young reader’s library.
Sean is a pretty typical second grader, but he is obsessed with the soccer superstar Lionel Messi. In fact, his dream is to BE Messi! But, first, he has to overcome math homework, bullies, bedtimes and fears. When he finally overcomes his shyness about participating in a real soccer game, he scores 3 goals!
This is a wonderfully written and beautifully illustrated book that would be enjoyed by small kids as a bedtime story as well as older children learning to read, I would especially recommend it for any child who loves sports, especially soccer.
I was given a chance to read this book by the author and chose to review it.
A really good book about poor Sean always dreaming about being as good as his soccer hero Mesi. But when it comes time to actually go to soccer camp, things seem a little scary to him. Dreaming of being like Mesi interferes with schooling and his schoolwork. He even has trouble solving math problems. So, will Sean overcome his fears? Will he start solving Math problems? I'll never tell
As a forth grade soccer fan it was awesome to read this book and I want to read more of this series and it was just spot on keep up the good work thank you.
I feel bad giving a low review but this book is making parenting harder for me so 2 stars feels generous. My kid loves Messi and doesn’t love to read so I got this book and gave it to him before reading it hoping it would motivate him to read.
All week my kid has been saying that he doesn’t need to know math (or other school related topics) because he’s going to be a soccer player- which is what Sean says in the book.
He’s been calling himself stupid (and dumb) because that’s what Sean did in the book.
He keeps saying “Ronaldo sucks” and using the word sucks way more than he used to because that’s what Sean said.
We are now trying all sorts of exercises (including both disciplining and rewarding good behavior) to get this kid back on track. This book was been taken away and the two other books in the series, I prematurely bought, are being returned.
I love this idea for a story. As a parent I’ve learned I have to be sensitive to what my kid is reading because he is VERY easily influenced by what he takes in, especially when he admires a character. I had hoped Sean’s turn around would be more memorable for him then the bad behavior at the beginning but that was not the case.
My kids love soccer, so this book was a good choice for my daughter since she is also in second grade like Sean. Even though she is not as familiar with all of the professional soccer leagues, she did like this story. At first she thought it was about a messy boy, but now she is interested in finding out more about Lionel Messi. One of her favorite parts about the story was the illustrations. We could both visualize the games and scrimmages from the description. We talked about each chapter and Sean's feeling and why he acted the way he did in new situations. With topics like bullying, dealing with fears and challenges, and setting goals, there is a lot that we can discuss with our children. As a mom and an educator, I could relate to working with a child who was very active and often had difficulty focusing on school work. I would definitely consider other books by the author with characters about the same age and more themes for my child.
It’s refreshing to find a children’s book which talks about real life parenthood issues. As we read through the book I found myself relating to the mother’s struggle as well as to the boy’s. As parents we are not perfect and I appreciate the reality of the adult characters, the conflicts they face and the fine line between encouraging and allowing a child to be who they are in the situation.
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway. I really liked this book. It is perfect for reluctant scholars and for the children who are afraid to put themselves forward for something that is out of their comfort zone. I have passed this in to my daughter to read to my 6 year old granddaughter who is just (reluctantly) embarking on an AFL course! I recommend this book to all parents!
I chose this rating as the author Tanya Preminger had showcased the feelings of a second grader in football. The book was written in a well mannered way and very practically.