Robert Rigby Reviews

Added June 23, 2006

Goal! The Dream Begins

Author: Robert Rigby - (movie tie-in novelization)
Publisher: Harcourt, Inc
Available At: Bookstores Everywhere
Publishing Date: April 2006
Genre: Young Adult: Fiction/Sports
Format: Trade Paper
Price: $6.95
ISBN: 0-15-205798-6
Reviewer: Joyce Handzo
Rating: 9 Gargoyles

Goal! is a winner! Heart-pumping and heart-warming action keep the pages turning as readers follow the incredible story of Santiago.

He was born in Mexico, but entered the United States illegally when he was ten. Growing up on the streets of Los Angeles Santiago was introduced to gangs, but his grandmother had other plans for him. He discovered the joy of soccer, and realized he had a natural talent for the sport. But his family was poor, and so were their dreams. That all changed when the right person saw Santiago make all the right moves on the soccer field. Despite his father's indifference, Santiago went to England for a once-in-a-lifetime tryout with a top team. What follows next is a series of setbacks and successes that stunned the world of athletics.

Readers don't have to be fans of soccer to enjoy this story. Santiago's dream of making it big will resonate with young adults, providing inspiration and encouragement. His story is told in simple language and maintains a high level of interest. The road to fame was paved with many trials and troubles, and it was interesting to see how he handled each adversity. On the flip side was success, causing Santiago to grapple with this new idea and his exalted position in soccer. His upbringing and morals directed his decisions and molded his attitude, all of which provides a positive look at the life of this special player.

There is a gratifying sense of triumph in these pages, and readers will cheer for Santiago, both on and off the field. Sixteen color photos from the movie add another dimension to the written words. Regrettably, there is some profanity in the book, which warrants a caution and also cheapens the narrative a little.

Goal! scores points for an inspirational and exciting story!

Return to top of page.

This page was last updated on January 1, 2008

This page and all its contents are Copyright© 2002-2008 In the Library Reviews and the individual reviewers. Except where noted, all graphics are Copyright© Eos Development and are used with permission. All book covers are Copyright© their respective publishers and are used with permission. The In the Library Reviews logo is Copyright© 2002 by In the Library Reviews/Sharyn McGinty. Site maintained by In the Library Reviews.