Let's be real: getting an 8 or 9-year-old to read can sometimes feel harder than getting them off Roblox. But soccer books? They're kind of a cheat code. Whether your kid lives and breathes the sport or just needs something to read that isn't assigned homework, there's a soccer book out there that'll hook them.
The sweet spot for this age is books that move fast, have relatable characters, and ideally sneak in some actual soccer strategy or history without feeling like a textbook. We're talking graphic novels that make reluctant readers feel successful, chapter books that build reading stamina, and even some nonfiction that doesn't put them to sleep.
Screenwise Parents
See allHere's the thing about 8-9 year olds: they're developing their reading identity. They're figuring out what kind of reader they are, what they like, and whether reading is "their thing." And books about something they already love? That's an easy win.
Soccer books offer:
- Built-in motivation - They already care about the topic
- Vocabulary building - Sports terms, strategy, teamwork language
- Cultural connection - Soccer is global, so many books naturally include diverse characters and settings
- Screen-free sports content - All that energy they put into watching FIFA gameplay videos on YouTube? Now it's going into reading
Plus, for kids who play soccer, these books validate their interests. For kids who don't, they're a window into why their friends are so obsessed.
Graphic Novels (Perfect for Reluctant Readers)
Kicking Off by Alex Morgan - Yes, that Alex Morgan. The U.S. Women's National Team star co-wrote this graphic novel series about a girl navigating middle school and club soccer. It's got friendship drama, soccer action, and the illustrations keep pages turning fast. Great for kids who think they "don't like reading."
New Kid by Jerry Craft - While not exclusively about soccer, this Newbery Medal winner features a protagonist who plays soccer and deals with fitting in at a new school. The sports elements are woven naturally into a bigger story about identity and belonging.
Chapter Books (For Developing Readers)
The Kicks series by Alex Morgan - Before the graphic novels, there were these chapter books. Devin moves to California and joins a struggling soccer team. Each book tackles a different challenge: making friends, dealing with competition, team dynamics. They're quick reads (100-150 pages) that don't feel intimidating.
Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin - This one's a picture book but works great as a read-aloud or for younger 8-year-olds. It's about a boy in South Africa who makes a soccer ball out of plastic bags and trash. Beautiful illustrations and a story about resourcefulness and passion for the game.
Ballpark Mysteries series - Okay, these are technically baseball, but if your kid likes the mystery + sports combo, the Soccer Mystery spin-off books hit that same sweet spot.
For Strong Readers
Booked by Kwame Alexander - This novel-in-verse is chef's kiss for kids ready for something more literary. Nick loves soccer and dictionaries (his dad's a linguist). The verse format makes it feel quick and accessible, but it tackles real stuff: parents divorcing, first crushes, finding your voice. Bonus: it makes reading feel cool.
The World Cup by Matt Christopher - Matt Christopher is the OG sports writer for kids. His books are straightforward, action-packed, and perfect for kids who want pure sports content without too much "feelings stuff."
Nonfiction That Doesn't Bore
She Takes a Shot: 16 Extraordinary Women in Soccer - Short biographies of women soccer players from around the world. Each chapter is bite-sized, so kids can read one at a time. Great for building knowledge about the sport and seeing diverse role models.
National Geographic Readers: Soccer - If your kid is more into stats, history, and how things work, this is perfect. Photos, facts, and just enough text to keep them engaged without overwhelming.
Reading level vs. interest level: Just because your 8-year-old can read at a 5th-grade level doesn't mean they want to read about 5th-grade problems. Sometimes a "simpler" book about something they love is the better choice. Let them read what they're excited about.
Series are your friend: Once kids find a series they like, they'll keep reading. The Kicks series has multiple books. Want to explore other series?
Graphic novels are real reading: If you have any doubts about graphic novels "counting," let them go. The visual literacy skills kids develop reading graphic novels are legit. Plus, they're building reading stamina and confidence.
Library holds are magic: Most libraries let you place holds online. Let your kid browse the library website or app and request books themselves. It gives them ownership and excitement when their holds come in.
The best soccer book for your kid is the one they'll actually read. Start with what matches their current reading level and interests—whether that's fast-paced graphic novels, mystery stories, or inspiring biographies. The goal isn't to turn them into literary scholars by age 9; it's to help them see reading as something enjoyable that connects to their real life.
And hey, if a soccer book gets them off YouTube for 20 minutes? That's a win worth celebrating.
Try the library first - Request 3-4 different types of soccer books (a graphic novel, a chapter book, maybe one nonfiction) and see what sticks.
Let them abandon books - If they're not into it after a chapter or two, move on. Forcing them to finish every book is a great way to kill reading motivation.
Read together - Even at 8-9, reading aloud together is still valuable. Take turns reading pages from Booked or The Kicks.
Connect it to their screen time - If they're watching Premier League highlights or playing FIFA, find books about their favorite players or teams. Curious about balancing sports screen time with other activities?