Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is exactly what it promises to be: a comprehensive, visually-rich soccer reference book from a trusted publisher. If your kid is obsessed with soccer or just joined their first team, this is a solid educational resource that'll actually get used.

The National Geographic Kids 'Everything' series has a proven format—tons of photos, digestible facts, cool infographics—that works well for this age group. It's not going to win literary awards, but it doesn't need to. It's a tool for learning about a sport, and it does that job well.

The main limitation is that it's a 2014 book about a sport where players and teams constantly change. The fundamentals (rules, positions, history) are timeless, but don't expect current rosters or recent World Cup coverage. Still, at a 4.7 Amazon rating, parents and kids seem satisfied with what they're getting.

Bottom line: If your house is already full of soccer balls and shin guards, add this to the shelf. If your kid couldn't care less about sports, this won't convert them.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-12, particularly kids already playing or interested in soccer. The reading level and depth of information suits elementary to middle school, though younger kids can enjoy it as a picture-heavy browsing book. Teens will likely find it too basic unless they're coaching younger siblings.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

Celebrates a global sport that emphasizes teamwork, practice, and fair play. National Geographic's approach is consistently positive and inclusive, highlighting soccer as 'a game for all' from 'patches of dirt to gleaming turf.' The tone is enthusiastic without being chaotic, and the focus on learning rules and developing skills models healthy athletic participation.

Imaginative

72

Solid informational content with 100+ photos, infographics, maps, and interactive glossary elements that invite exploration of soccer culture worldwide. However, it's fundamentally an encyclopedia-style reference book rather than a creative narrative. It sparks curiosity about the sport and different playing styles globally, but doesn't push boundaries of format or storytelling.

Safe

98

Completely safe content focused on sports education. No concerning elements whatsoever—just soccer facts, player profiles, rules, and equipment information. National Geographic Kids maintains high editorial standards. The only minor consideration is that sports hero worship can sometimes disappoint when athletes fall from grace, but that's not a safety concern.

Enriching

81

Strong educational value with concrete information about rules, positions, global soccer culture, and athletic skills. Teaches geography through the sport's worldwide reach, builds sports literacy, and encourages physical activity. The 'Everything' series format with anecdotes, tips, and behind-the-scenes content adds depth. However, it's straightforward reference material rather than deeply transformative content.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Over 100 photos, maps, and infographics make soccer's global culture come alive visually
Covers everything from basic rules to superstar players, perfect for beginners or kids deepening their knowledge
National Geographic's signature quality means accurate, well-researched content parents can trust
Interactive glossary and behind-the-scenes elements add engagement beyond typical reference books
Encourages physical activity and appreciation for a sport that truly is played worldwide

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What to Watch For

This is a reference book, not a story—best for kids who actively want to learn about soccer, not reluctant readers looking for entertainment
Published in 2014, so some player profiles and statistics will be dated (though core soccer rules and history remain relevant)
Dense with information; might overwhelm kids who just want to kick a ball around rather than study the sport

Conversation Starters

"Which soccer position sounds most interesting to you? Why do you think you'd be good at it?"
"The book says soccer is played everywhere from dirt patches to fancy stadiums. Where would you most want to play?"
"Who's your favorite player mentioned in the book? What makes them special?"
"Did you learn any soccer rules you didn't know before? Want to try them out in the backyard?"

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National Geographic Readers: Soccer