Big Book of WHO Football (Sports Illustrated Kids Big Books)

If you’ve got a young football fan in your life—or if you’re one yourself—then Big Book of WHO Football by Sports Illustrated Kids is an absolute touchdown. This visually stunning, fact-packed guide dives into the world of football’s greatest players, past and present, making it an engaging read for kids (and even adults) who love the sport.

But is it just another generic sports book? Far from it. With its dynamic layout, fun trivia, and in-depth player profiles, this book stands out in the crowded field of sports literature for young readers. Whether your child idolizes Patrick Mahomes, dreams of being the next Megan Rapinoe, or just loves soaking up sports knowledge, this book delivers.

Let’s break down what makes Big Book of WHO Football such a standout read—and why it deserves a spot on your bookshelf.

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Unlike a traditional novel, Big Book of WHO Football is structured as an encyclopedia-style guide, profiling some of the most iconic football (soccer and American football) players in history. The book is divided into sections that highlight:

• Legends of the Game (Pele, Tom Brady, Mia Hamm)
• Modern Superstars (Lionel Messi, Patrick Mahomes, Alex Morgan)
• Rising Talents (young players making waves today)
• Record-Breakers & Game-Changers (athletes who redefined the sport)

Each profile includes career highlights, fun facts, and key stats, making it easy for young readers to digest. The book doesn’t just list names—it tells the stories behind the players, from their early struggles to their biggest triumphs.

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While this isn’t a novel with traditional character arcs, the way the book presents each athlete makes them feel like real-life heroes. For example:

• Lionel Messi’s journey from a small-statured kid in Argentina to a global icon is framed as an underdog story.
• Megan Rapinoe’s activism and leadership are highlighted alongside her on-field achievements, showing young readers that athletes can be changemakers.
• Tom Brady’s relentless work ethic is emphasized, making his success feel earned rather than just lucky.

The book does a fantastic job of balancing who these players are with what they’ve accomplished, making their stories relatable and inspiring.

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Sports Illustrated Kids has a knack for making sports content fun and digestible, and this book is no exception. The writing is:

• Concise but impactful – No long-winded paragraphs; just punchy, exciting descriptions.
• Interactive – Sidebars with trivia, "Did You Know?" facts, and quick quizzes keep readers engaged.
• Visually driven – High-quality photos, bold graphics, and colorful layouts make flipping through the book a joy.

The tone is enthusiastic without being overly simplistic, striking a perfect balance for its target age group (8-12 years old).

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Beyond the stats and highlights, Big Book of WHO Football subtly reinforces important life lessons:

• Perseverance – Many players faced setbacks (injuries, rejections) before succeeding.
• Teamwork – Even the biggest stars didn’t win alone.
• Diversity & Inclusion – The book features male and female athletes from around the world, showing that greatness has no boundaries.

These themes make the book more than just a fun read—it’s a motivational tool for young athletes.

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As someone who grew up obsessed with sports trivia, I would have devoured this book as a kid. Even as an adult, I found myself flipping through it, learning new facts (did you know Pelé scored over 1,000 career goals?). The mix of nostalgia and fresh insights kept me hooked.

The only minor critique? Some fans might wish for deeper dives into certain players, but given the book’s broad scope, it’s understandable why profiles are kept concise.

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Compared to other sports books for kids (like The Everything Kids’ Sports Book or Who Is? series), Big Book of WHO Football stands out because:

✅ More visually engaging – The SI Kids brand ensures top-notch photography and design.
✅ More current – Includes recent stars like Kylian Mbappé and Coco Gauff.
✅ More dynamic – The interactive elements (quizzes, fun facts) make it feel like an experience, not just a read.

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✔ Stunning visuals – Every page pops with vibrant images.
✔ Broad appeal – Covers both soccer and American football.
✔ Educational yet fun – Perfect for reluctant readers who love sports.

❌ Some players missing – No book can include every star, so a few fan favorites might be left out.
❌ Short profiles – Older readers might want more depth, but this is really a book for kids.

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• Ages 8-12 – Ideal for middle-grade readers.
• Sports-loving kids – Whether they play or just love watching.
• Parents & educators – Great for sparking discussions about hard work and perseverance.

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While not a quote-heavy book, some standout lines include:

"Greatness isn’t about being the biggest or the fastest—it’s about heart, hustle, and never giving up."

"The best players don’t just score goals—they change the game forever."

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Football (both soccer and American football) is more than just a sport—it’s a global phenomenon. This book captures how athletes like Pelé, Messi, and Serena Williams have transcended sports to become cultural icons. It also highlights how women’s soccer has grown in prominence, making it a great conversation starter about gender equality in sports.

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Ready to score this fantastic read? Grab your copy here:
Amazon

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Big Book of WHO Football is a slam dunk (or should I say, a perfect field goal?) for young sports fans. It’s informative, visually stunning, and packed with inspiring stories. Whether for a birthday gift, a classroom library, or just a fun read, this book delivers.

Question for readers: Who’s your favorite football player, and why? Let’s chat in the comments! ⚽🏈

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