Football books for children and teens

Football books for children and teens

Football books for children, young adults and teens. Football books matter both on bedroom bookshelves and in classrooms because they tap into kids’ passion for the game and turn it into a reason to read. For children who’d usually avoid a book, a football story can feel like familiar ground. These books open up conversations, build empathy, and inject life lessons about teamwork and perseverance. And they help dispell the myth that children can’t be both sporty and into books: they absolutely can. This list features books by Michael Rosen, Tom Palmer, Mal Peet, Michaela Morgan, Priscilla Mante, Alex Wheatle, Dan Freedman, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Bali Rai and Michelle Robinson.

Football themed books for children and teens – our recommendations

Football picture books

Let’s Play Football! by Ben Lerwill

Ben Lerwill’s Let’s Play Football! opens the door to a game that belongs to everyone. From city parks to dusty fields, it shows how football happens wherever there’s spaceand something round to kick. It’s not about star players or scoreboards, but about joy, teamwork, and the simple thrill of playing. With a focus on inclusion and community, the book highlights how football connects people, no matter their age, background, or ability.

Planet Football by Michelle Robinson

Michelle Robinson’s Planet Football kicks off with Jackson, a boy whose mighty boot accidentally launches footballs into space – literally. Soon, aliens are hooked, and Jackson finds himself at the centre of a cosmic football craze. The story’s packed with energy, humour, and a wonderfully mixed cast, showing that the game’s for everyone, everywhere. As the fun unfolds, Jackson has to find a way to bring football back to Earth, after realising he’s sent every last ball into orbit.

Sammy Striker and the Football Cup by Catherine Emmett and Joe Berger

Catherine Emmett’s Sammy Striker and the Football Cup stars a quick-footed young player who’s scouted in the park and picked for the Under-8s National Team. Sammy’s great at dribbling, not so much at scoring – and as the final looms, she’s benched. But when she’s subbed on after an injury, she’s told to play her way, and it pays off. With a confident female lead and a diverse team, the story reflects pitches everywhere.

Little People, Big Dreams Jürgen Klopp by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

This lively biography charts Jürgen Klopp’s journey from football-mad kid in Germany to top-flight manager of Mainz, Dortmund, and Liverpool. It touches on his playing days, his love of tactics, and how he became known for passion, humour, and team spirit. Aimed at younger readers, it’s part of the Little People, Big Dreams series, offering a snapshot of Klopp’s life and achievements – with a timeline and illustrated profile to round off a boss book.

Spot Plays Football by Eric Hill

In Spot Plays Football, Eric Hill’s lovable pup takes to the pitch for a friendly kickabout with his friends. Spot leads the red team, Helen the blue, but it’s all about teamwork and having fun – not who wins. The simple story and cheerful animal characters make it perfect for younger readers, gently introducing football basics and fair play. It’s a light, upbeat board book that captures the joy of the game in a way 0-3 year olds can follow and enjoy.

Wonder Goal! by Michael Foreman

Michael Foreman’s Wonder Goal! follows a boy lost in the thrill of scoring the perfect goal – one that might just win the World Cup one day. It starts on scruffy local pitches and stretches all the way to the big stage, blurring the line between dream and reality. The illustrations take readers around the world, showing football’s universal pull. With echoes of his father’s own dream, it’s a gentle tribute to the game’s power to inspire across generations.

Kicking a Ball by Allan Ahlberg, illustrated by Sebastien Braun

Allan Ahlberg’s Kicking a Ball tells the story of a boy who simply loves to play – and never really stops. From childhood through to adulthood, the joy of kicking a ball stays with him, more important than watching matches or collecting stickers. Sebastien Braun’s warm, inclusive illustrations reflect a broad mix of players, with different abilities and backgrounds. Originally written as a poem, the book captures the simple, lasting magic of just having a ball at your feet.

The Unlucky Eleven by Phil Earle

The Unlucky Eleven follows Stanley and his team, the Saints, through a season where nothing goes right. Convinced their kit is cursed, they try everything to break the bad streak – with mostly disastrous results. Stanley’s plans get bolder as the final match looms, and the team scrambles to turn things around. It’s a light, chaotic take on friendship, football, and refusing to give up.

Look Inside Football by Rob Jones

Look Inside Football gives young fans a closer look at how the game works, on and off the pitch. It covers everything from how footballs are made to what goes on at training grounds, with tips for improving skills along the way. There’s history, club life, and a bit of behind-the-scenes insight too. Aimed at all reading abilities, it’s a solid starting point.

Football books for KS2

The Dream Team: Jaz Santos vs. the World by Priscilla Mante

The Dream Team: Jaz Santos vs. the World follows Jaz, a determined girl who forms the Bramrock Stars, her school’s first girls’ football team, to prove she can make her mother proud and bring her family back together. As Jaz leads her diverse team, they face challenges on and off the pitch, tackling issues like family separation, teamwork, and gender equality in sports. A relatable and empowering story for young readers, this book celebrates friendship, resilience, and girl power.

The Dog That Saved the World (Cup) by Phil Earle

The Dog That Saved the World (Cup) follows Elsie and her dog Pickles, united by a love of football. When things go badly wrong, it’s Pickles who steps up – drawing on the real-life story of the dog who found the stolen World Cup. Blending fact and fiction, the book explores family, setbacks, and second chances. With illustrations throughout, it offers younger readers a mix of football history and everyday challenges, all seen through a loyal dog’s unlikely heroics. Highly recommended.

Own Goal! by Paul Stewart

Own Goal! follows Scott, who scores for the wrong side in the school cup final – and things go downhill from there. His best mate Danny might be behind the threatening message that turns up afterwards, but Scott’s not sure who to trust. It’s a quick, tense read about friendship, pressure, and bouncing back after a mistake. Written with shorter chapters and clear text, it’s a good fit for readers aged 8+ who prefer stories that get straight to the point.

The Kick Off (2021 Edition) by Dan Freedman

The Kick Off follows Jamie Johnson, a young footballer with big plans and a habit of messing them up. After blowing his shot at the school team, he’s out to prove he’s got what it takes. The story tracks his ups and downs on and off the pitch, mixing football action with everyday setbacks. Aimed at readers aged 8 and up, it’s a solid pick for kids who live for the game – and know it’s not always smooth going.

Football School by Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton

Football School mixes football with subjects like history, geography, and science, answering odd but brilliant questions along the way – including toilet breaks and Martian kickabouts. It’s full of real stories, strange facts, and silly cartoons, all designed to sneak in learning while keeping things fun. Aimed at young readers who’d rather talk football than textbooks, it shows how the game links to the world around us. Highly recommended.

Football Crazy by Tony Bradman

Football Crazy follows Danny, Lewis, and Jamil as their team goes from losing every week to suddenly winning under a strict new coach. But with the success comes pressure, and the fun starts to disappear. As the boys question what really matters, they’re forced to decide whether winning is worth the cost. It’s a story about teamwork, standing your ground, and remembering why you started playing in the first place.

Secret FC by Tom Palmer

Secret FC follows Lily, Zack, and Khal as they set up a hidden football club after their headteacher bans the game at school. They find an old court, fix it up, and play in secret to keep their love for football alive. It’s a story about sticking together, pushing back when something feels wrong, and finding your own way to play. Highly recommended for less confident readers.

Johnny Ball: Accidental Football Genius by Matt Oldfield

Johnny Ball: Accidental Football Genius follows Johnny, who knows loads about football but can’t play to save his life. When he’s made assistant manager of the school team, he puts his tactics to the test – alongside a coach who hasn’t got a clue. As the cup run kicks off, Johnny deals with team drama, dodgy decisions, and the odd surprise. It’s a smart, funny take on football from the sidelines.

A Different Kind of Freedom: A Romani Story by Richard O’Neill

A Different Kind of Freedom follows Lijah, a Romani boy growing up in 19th-century Sheffield, who falls for football and sets his sights on going pro. His dad’s not keen, but Lijah finds inspiration in Rab Howell, a fellow Romani player who made it. The story digs into family expectations, cultural pride, and chasing something bigger than yourself. Written by Romani author Richard O’Neill, it brings out both the everyday and the unheard voices behind early British football. Highly recommended.

The Big Book of Football by Mundial

The Big Book of Football dives into the game’s history, key players, legendary teams, and big moments. It mixes football basics with trivia, fun facts, and how-to tips – like learning to bend it like Beckham. Packed with colourful illustrations, it also looks at how gear has changed over time, from old boots to modern kits. It’s ideal for classroom libraries.

Macbeth United: A Football Tragedy by Michael Rosen

Macbeth United: A Football Tragedy retells Shakespeare’s tale on the pitch, with 12-year-old striker Macbeth chasing the captain’s armband at Shotfield FC. Pushed on by his ambitious mum, he’ll do whatever it takes to lead the team – fair or not. As his obsession grows, the game starts to slip away from him. With match commentary, teammates standing in for classic characters, and a nod to the original plot, it’s a sharp, sporty way into big literary themes like ambition and power.

Walter Tull’s Scrapbook by Michaela Morgan

Walter Tull’s Scrapbook tells the story of Britain’s first black professional footballer and army officer through photos, drawings, and documents. It follows Tull from his early life in an orphanage to playing for Spurs and serving in World War I. The scrapbook format brings key moments to life while showing the barriers he faced on and off the pitch. Aimed at younger readers, it offers a clear look at his achievements, bravery, and lasting impact.

Salah Rules by Simon Mugford

Salah Rules follows Mohamed Salah’s journey from youth football in Egypt to becoming one of the world’s top players. It covers major milestones, including his 2019 African Footballer of the Year win and his role in Liverpool’s Champions League and Premier League triumphs. Aimed at emerging readers, the book uses a clear storyline, cartoon-style art, and bold visuals to bring his story to life.

Bronze Rules by Simon Mugford

Bronze Rules charts Lucy Bronze’s rise in women’s football, from her early days to winning Champions League titles with Lyon and helping England to third place at the 2015 World Cup. Aimed at readers aged six and up, it blends a clear, simple story with quizzes, stats, and illustrations. The book introduces key moments in her career while giving young fans a look at what it takes to succeed through hard work and determination.

Ultimate Football Heroes 2025 by Matt Oldfield, John Murray, Emily Stead and Seth Burkett

Ultimate Football Heroes 2025 looks back at the biggest moments from the 2023–24 season, covering competitions like the Premier League, Women’s Super League, and Champions League. It features players such as Kylian Mbappé and Jude Bellingham, alongside stats, quizzes, and match highlights. Designed as a season roundup, the book mixes facts with fast-paced commentary to keep readers hooked. Aimed at young football fans, it’s especially suited to those who enjoy short sections and action-packed recaps.

All to Play For by Eve Ainsworth

All to Play For follows Lewis, a football-mad boy whose mum won’t let him play after his dad died during a match. When a coach offers him a place at Ace Academy, he’s desperate to go – but first, he has to change her mind. The story looks at loss, family tension, and the struggle to follow a dream when everything’s stacked against you. Written for reluctant readers, it suits upper KS2 and KS3 students looking for something real but hopeful.

Everything by Football National Geographic Kids

Everything by Football is a full-colour guide for young fans, packed with facts, photos, and tips. It covers key parts of the game – skills, tactics, famous teams, and iconic stadiums – while offering advice for kids keen to improve on the pitch. With hundreds of facts and practical pointers, it’s designed to boost knowledge and spark interest ahead of major tournaments like the World Cup.

The Rise of the Lionesses: Incredible Moments from Women’s Football by Flo Lloyd-Hughes

The Rise of the Lionesses charts the journey of England’s women’s team, from early trailblazers like Lily Parr to modern stars such as Beth Mead. It covers big moments, standout players, and the game’s growth leading up to the 2023 Women’s World Cup. With stats, profiles, and plenty of context, it’s a solid pick for readers curious about how the women’s game got here.

50 Ways to Score a Goal and Other Football Poems by Brian Bilston

50 Ways to Score a Goal brings together Brian Bilston’s playful poems about all things football – from pre-match nerves to the inner thoughts of a ball. The collection mixes haikus, acrostics, and shape poems, keeping things lively and unexpected. Whether you’re obsessed with the game or just tagging along, there’s something here to enjoy. Bilston’s humour lands well, and his love of the sport shines through.

Roy of the Rovers: Teamwork by Tom Palmer

Roy of the Rovers: Teamwork follows 16-year-old Roy Race as he juggles life as Melchester Rovers’ star striker with school, home pressures, and the spotlight of social media. With the team struggling, Roy realises talent isn’t enough – he needs to trust those around him. This second instalment brings new challenges, fresh faces, and more football drama, while digging into themes of resilience and family.

The Boy Whose Wishes Came True by Helen Rutter

The Boy Whose Wishes Came True follows Archie Crumb, who’s having a tough time with bullies and things at home – until his football hero grants him nine wishes. At first, it feels like everything’s changing for the better, but Archie soon figures out that magic can’t fix everything. It’s a story about finding confidence, facing problems head-on, and learning that some things you have to sort yourself. An uplifting mix of humour and heart.

Kick by Mitch Johnson

Kick follows Budi, a boy who dreams of playing football for a living but spends his days making boots in a factory. When a run-in with the wrong person leaves him owing a dangerous debt, that dream suddenly feels out of reach. The story digs into ambition, poverty, and the risks faced by those chasing a way out. Set against the backdrop of global inequality, it’s a sharp, honest read about holding on to hope when the odds are stacked high.

Game On by Bali Rai

Game On picks up Baljit’s story as he edges closer to joining Liverpool FC’s youth team. Between shifts at his dad’s chippy and trouble brewing in the neighbourhood, staying focused on football isn’t easy. Match-day pressure, personal choices, and local threats all test how badly he wants it. Aimed at readers aged 11 and up, with accessible text for those reading at a lower level, it’s a sharp look at chasing big dreams.

Me and Aaron Ramsay by Manon Steffan Ros

Me and Aaron Ramsey follows Sam, a boy who bonds with his dad over football – until an injury ends his father’s shot at going pro. With money tight and emotions running high, Sam tries to hold the family together. The story touches on mental health, illiteracy, and what happens when dreams fall apart. Through it all, football stays at the heart of things. Aimed at readers aged 9+, it’s about sticking together when life doesn’t go to plan.

Over the Line by Tom Palmer

Over the Line follows Jack Cock, a young footballer who swaps the pitch for the trenches after joining the Footballers’ Battalion in World War I. Just as his pro career begins, he’s pulled into the chaos of war, where football becomes a distant memory. Based on real events, including the Flanders Cup, the story brings together sport and conflict in stark contrast. Aimed at readers aged 10+, it shows how the game – and those who play it – were changed by war.

Lily and the Rockets by Rebecca Stevens

Lily and the Rockets follows 14-year-old Lily Dodd, who’s juggling wartime factory work with her dream of becoming a goalkeeper. In 1917, she and her workmates form the Rockets, a women’s football team finding joy and purpose on the pitch. But when the war ends, things change fast. Based on real events, the story digs into ambition, resilience, and the fight for a place in the game – at a time when women were expected to quietly step aside.

Home Ground by Alan Gibbons

Home Ground follows Sam’s team, stuck at the bottom of the league and out of ideas – until new players Hasan and Faisal join. They’ve fled war, so football means more to them than just the score. Not everyone’s happy, though, and team captain Jordan isn’t big on sharing the spotlight. The story tackles prejudice and belonging without feeling heavy-handed, showing how the game can bring people together when it’s played for the right reasons.

She Shoots, She Scores by Catriona Clarke

She Shoots, She Scores looks at the rise of women’s football – from its tough beginnings to the stars lighting up the game today, like Lucy Bronze, Sam Kerr, and Alex Morgan. It’s packed with player profiles, tournament highlights, and skill tips, all wrapped up with a foreword from Steph Houghton. The book keeps things lively while showing how far the sport’s come – and where it’s headed next.

World Football Records 2025 by Keir Radnedge

World Football Records 2025 packs in stats, stories, and standout moments from across the global game. It covers recent tournaments, national team records, and big-name performances, with updates from over 35 countries and 170+ FIFA members. There’s plenty here for fans who like their facts front and centre. Whether you’re into record-breaking goals or tracking team milestones, it’s a solid go-to for up-to-date football info without the waffle.

Football themed books for teens

Unstoppable by Dan Freedman

Unstoppable follows 14-year-old twins Kaine and Roxy, each chasing big dreams while quietly falling apart. He’s a rising football talent with a short fuse. She’s aiming for Wimbledon, but it’s not all trophies and training. As pressure builds, so do the risks – on and off the pitch. Knife crime, gangs, and tough decisions test their bond. It’s not just about sport. It’s about survival, too. It’s a good pick for teens who like their fiction grounded and full-on.

Foul Play by Tom Palmer

Danny investigates a plan to fix a football match between England and Russia. After England’s goalkeeper is injured in a crash, Danny looks into his replacement and uncovers links to organised crime. The story follows his search for answers inside a world where sport and criminal activity collide. Aimed at readers with an interest in football and detective fiction, this compelling book introduces themes of corruption, loyalty, and the risks faced by whistleblowers.

Keeper by Mal Peet

A journalist records El Gato’s account of how he rose from a logger’s son to a World Cup-winning goalkeeper. The story centres on secret training sessions deep in the rainforest, led by a figure known only as The Keeper. As El Gato describes his journey, the narrative shifts between football and unexplained events. Set in South America, this gripping book combines a sports interview format with themes of memory, skill, and hidden influence on the pitch.

All Summer Long by Hope Larson

Bina spends the summer before eighth grade (Year 9) without her best friend, exploring music and navigating shifting relationships. As she reconnects with Austin and meets new people, she reflects on how friendships change. The story follows her through a mix of solo moments and social challenges. Told through a graphic novel format, the book focuses on personal growth during early adolescence, highlighting how interests, connections, and identity can shift over time. Highly recommended.

The Girl with the Red Boots by Alex Wheatle

Kadeen moves to London after her brother is killed in Jamaica. Living with her aunt, she keeps a low profile while dealing with grief and fears of being found by those responsible. She secretly joins a girls’ football team, using the sport as an outlet. As her skills attract notice, her past risks catching up with her. This compelling story follows her efforts to stay safe while building new connections and finding strength through the game.

Pigeon English by Stephen Kelman

Eleven-year-old Harri adjusts to life on a London estate after moving from Ghana. When a boy is stabbed nearby, Harri begins his own investigation, drawing on what he sees and hears around him. The story follows his daily life at home, school, and on the estate, where danger and friendship mix. Told from a child’s point of view, the book explores how young people interpret violence and community while trying to make sense of an unfamiliar world.

Respect by Michaela Morgan

Told through his brother Tully’s voice, this story follows Walter Tull from a children’s home to professional football and military service in World War I. It traces his early life, career with Spurs and Northampton, and his role as one of the first black officers in the British Army. The book presents key events from his life, showing the barriers he faced and his achievements. Aimed at readers aged 9 and up, it includes illustrations and historical context.

World Football Club Crests by Leonard Jägerskiöld Nilsson

This guide covers the design and history of over 200 football club crests worldwide. It explains the meaning behind each symbol, tracing how logos have changed over time. The book includes examples such as Manchester United’s devil and Valencia’s bat, placing them in historical and cultural context. With illustrations and background notes, it provides a reference for readers interested in the visual identity of football clubs and the stories linked to their emblems. A fascinating read.

The Illustrated History of Football by David Squires

The Illustrated History of Football by David Squires presents a satirical take on the sport’s key moments and figures. Using illustrations, Squires reflects on both the glory and the corruption within football, blending humour with critical insight. This collection, based on his work for The Guardian, captures the absurdities of the game while offering a fresh perspective on its history. A suitable gift for football fans, it balances wit with a sharp examination of the sport’s complexities.

Panini Legends by Greg Lansdowne

This collection features over 900 football stickers covering 85 players from across six decades. It includes profiles of figures such as Pelé, Maradona, Messi, and Mbappé, alongside details about their most notable stickers. The book charts the history of Panini’s sticker series and explores how designs and collecting trends have developed. Written by Greg Lansdowne, it serves as a visually stunning reference for collectors, offering background on rare items and the role stickers play in football culture.

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Football-related resources for teachers

• Tony Bradman offers an extensive range of free football-related literacy and reading resources designed to support the use of his books in classrooms.
• Tom Palmer has a huge selection of free literacy resources based on his Football Academy series for primary and secondary teachers to use.
• Premier League Reading Stars is a scheme for UKS2. It offers a downloadable “10-session reading intervention created to increase engagement and progress levels in reading for years 5 and 6.” There’s also ‘Footy Phonics‘.
• The Scottish FA’s Learning Through Football website offers practical advice on how to encourage children to read and improve their writing confidence through football-related activities. Highly recommended for 7-14 year olds.
• National Literacy Trust’s Words for Life has a football-themed section which includes World Cup reading challenges, quizzes, activity sheets and recipes.
• Ultimate Football Heroes has created some useful activities and resources to support using their book series in primary-aged classrooms.
• Bonnier Books has designed a Reading Tournament book contest, based on the Football World Cup format. It’s a knockout library activity!
• Literacy Trust’s Sport and Literacy Programme Manager Jim Sells explains how football can motivate children to improve their literacy in this Medium article.

BISAC: JUV032060 – Juvenile Fiction / Sports & Recreation / Soccer, JNF054090 – Juvenile Nonfiction / Sports & Recreation / Soccer, JNF007000 – Juvenile Nonfiction / Biography & Autobiography / Sports & Recreation, THEMA: YFCB – Children’s / Teenage fiction: Sport stories, YNTS – Children’s / Teenage personal & social topics: Sport, YNBK – Children’s / Teenage biography: sport, YQH-SC – Children’s / Teenage interest: Soccer.