Fantastic football books

This adorable Cinderella story with a football twist is a lovely tale about resilience, trying hard and making your wishes come true, as well as featuring a family with two dads.

Femi the fairy adores playing football, but her shots aren’t always on target, which often gets her into trouble. A charming picture book about following your dreams, with rhyming text and vibrant illustrations. 

Can Sammy work out why she can’t score a goal? Fizzing with energy and positivity, this rhyming picture book explores finding the confidence to embrace your individuality.

This collection of 50 real-life tales from around the world spans a period of more than 75 years and spotlights the remarkable achievements, both on and off the pitch, of a variety of football heroes.

Highly-illustrated biography of Manchester United striker and anti-poverty campaigner Marcus Rashford.

Sam and his dad love football. When an accident has long-lasting effects, everything at home changes. A moving depiction of a father-son relationship, set in Wales.

When the posh kids from Avocado Hill challenge the Mogden Maniacs to a football match, Barry Loser decides to get his team into shape – but whether they’ll pay any attention is another matter. More LOL-worthy stuff from the popular series.

Kian used to love playing football, but nowadays it gives him The Fear. So, when a friend asks Kian to join a local football team with him, he must decide whether he can face his fears to rediscover his passion for the game.

Nick and his friends are abducted by aliens and taken to Planet Bigpu, where they must represent Earth in the intergalactic Galaxy World Cup, despite being dreadful at football. This hilarious, fast-paced alien adventure is perfect for junior readers. 

When Jaz’s mum leaves home, she knows that she has to be the best at football to get her back. Warm-hearted and funny, this book explores the sexism in society and gives lots of opportunities to learn about real-life women football players. 

The World Cup trophy has been stolen! Can Pickles track it down? A highly engaging story, suitable for dyslexic readers.

Lijah loves football, but his Romani father doesn’t want him to play. How can Lijah follow his passion if he has to hide it from his dad?

Bobby wants his nana-ji and Trevor to be friends because they both love football. A heart-warming story of community and kindness – and football! Dyslexia friendly, and appealing to all readers. 

Written by professional footballer, Beth Mead, this inspirational book is part autobiography, part motivational manual. It features a wealth of activities designed to inspire readers to achieve their dreams and is essential reading for anyone who is interested in sport.

Stupendous Sports: Fantastic Football begins with the origins of football in China more than 2000 years ago, followed by its existence later in England as ​“foteballe” – a rough, violent game which could feature hundreds of players, with goals miles apart and with so much fighting that King Edward II banned it in 1314.

Can Lily’s talent for football help her overcome the challenges of starting at a new school? This dyslexia-friendly story is interspersed with women’s football facts.

Lewis loves football, but his mum won’t let him play. So what will happen when an Ace Academy coach spots him practising and recognises his talent?

England footballer Marcus Rashford shares tips and advice that he’s learned on his journey from being a football-mad kid in Manchester to a sports megastar and political activist, as well as how to handle issues of confidence and anxiety.

A wise, witty and very funny illustrated story of the youngest football coach ever and his race to finish at the top of the league.

Former scout Ben Lyttleton guides young football fans through the intricacies of goal-scoring in this comprehensive and engaging guide on how to be a top striker on and off the pitch. 

Packed full of football action and drama, discover football heroes, incredible comebacks, amazing match-winning moments and lots more in this collection of true-life tales. 

Set during World War I, this book tells the compelling true story of the professional footballers who signed up to fight. It’s sure to enthral readers and pique their interest in the period.

An inspiring book about all the amazing people and jobs related to football and the sports industry

Can Kadeen avoid her brother’s killer, but also play her beloved football? A brilliant contemporary read about teenage life.