Most of us recognize Pele as a famous soccer player, but fans would also recognize the star of this book. Readers get a brief glimpse of Neymar’s rise to stardom from his childhood dream to the major steps in his career. This slight biography presents his life as the author and illustrator envision it. This first-person narrative reads as a simple story of a poor family with a big dream to inspire early elementary ages.

Fans would not need a timeline, but it would be helpful background information. More detail and facts could draw in older potential readers. It does include a glossary but a pronunciation guide would also be helpful.

Limited color illustrations, predominance of browns and sienna with subdued greens, reds, and ochre; fine patterns of black dots create the shadowing. Double page spreads present a variety of views which bring the readers into the action, such as just behind the goal post, with partial figures shown, making it appear players are running right off the page. The pages showing Neymar as a boy and then later as an adult are shown in color, with an image of an adult player done in dots, grayscale, and quick lines of full action behind him.

This could work well in one-on-one readings, but librarians might consider other books about Neymar for more facts and detailed information. In light of his recent tax fraud fines, it could be used for discussion about the downside of fame and fortune.

Reviewed by Lynn Mayer, Librarian, Old Town Elementary School, Old Town