The Football World Cup has certainly given us lots of fabulous and surprising moments so far. As we move into the knock out stages, I’ve picked the beautiful game as my theme for this week
To kick us off, I have picked the second book in a fabulous series that practically bounces off the page; Let’s Play Football by Gordon D’Arcy and Paul Howard, illustrated by Ashwin Chacko. From the very first whistle, you’re not just reading this story; you’re in it. Gordon D’Arcy and Paul Howard have created a brilliantly energetic, fully immersive football adventure that invites children to step straight onto the pitch. Paired with Ashwin Chacko’s bold, lively illustrations, every page feels packed with movement, excitement and just the right amount of match-day nerves.
What makes this book such a winner is its interactivity. Readers are encouraged to stretch, run, weave and tackle alongside the story, making it perfect for those children who love to move as much as they love to read. It cleverly introduces key football skills while keeping the focus firmly on fun, teamwork and determination.
And don’t be fooled—this isn’t just about scoring the winning goal. There’s a lovely underlying message about perseverance and giving your all, even when the opposition is strong. This is a joyful, high-energy read that’s guaranteed to get children (and grown-ups!) ready to cheer from the sidelines, or dash straight outside for a kickabout of their own.
My next choice is Unbelievable Football: The Most Amazing World Cup Stories You Never Knew by Matt Oldfield, illustrated by Ollie Mann. packed with jaw‑dropping moments, unbelievable stories and facts that will have you saying, “No way… really?!”
From the drama of World Cup finals to the legends who’ve dazzled on the biggest stage, Unbelievable Football is bursting with bite‑sized snippets that are perfect for dipping in and out of. It’s the kind of book children will return to again and again—eager to share a new fact or retell an incredible moment they’ve just discovered.
What makes this book such a hit is its variety. One page might transport you to a stormy, history-filled first tournament, while the next introduces record-breaking players or shocking upsets that changed the game forever. With plenty of eye-catching illustrations and fascinating statistics, it brings football history to life in a way that feels fresh, fun and accessible.
Ideal for reluctant readers and football enthusiasts alike, this is a brilliant way to build reading stamina without even realising it. Each section is short, engaging and full of personality. Whether your child dreams of scoring at Wembley or simply loves a good story, this is a top‑of‑the‑league read that scores every time.
Finally, for our oldest children I’ve chosen Booked by Kwame Alexander, who Year 5 and 6 may remember from our virtual visit on World Book Day. Like a pulse‑pounding match played out in poetry, this is a story that grips you from the very first line.
Kwame Alexander’s Booked brings us Nick, a football‑mad boy who would rather be on the pitch than anywhere near a book. But as life begins to throw him some unexpected challenges, from friendship struggles to family changes, Nick finds himself navigating far more than just a game.
Told entirely in verse, the writing is electric. It races, slows, and soars; mirroring the rhythm of football itself. Even the most reluctant readers will find themselves swept along by the pace and punch of the language. It’s accessible, engaging and, at times, incredibly moving.
At its heart, this is a story about growing up. Nick’s journey through his parents’ break-up, his battles with bullies and his first experiences of love feel honest and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with him. Football may be his passion, but it’s the relationships in his life that truly shape him.
This is a brilliant choice for Upper KS2 readers, especially those who think books aren’t for them. Funny, heartfelt and full of energy, it might just change their minds.
Happy reading!
