Children’s Football Books by Female Footballers – Inspiring Kids’ Soccer Stories

The world of children's literature about football has traditionally been dominated by two types of books: biographical accounts of famous players and fictional stories written by authors who may or may not have kicked a ball themselves. But there's a third category emerging that deserves attention: children's fiction written by the very women who have graced the pitch at the highest levels of the game.

Having navigated the challenges of professional athletics, experienced the highs and lows of competition, and often overcome significant barriers in a sport still fighting for equality, these athletes possess rich material for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with young readers. Their stories carry an authenticity that comes from lived experience, they know what it feels like to chase a dream, face setbacks, work as part of a team, and find courage in moments of doubt.

Additionally, a familiar name on the cover can be a powerful hook for otherwise reluctant readers, drawing them into stories they might not have picked up otherwise and potentially sparking a love of reading alongside their passion for the beautiful game.

The following collection highlights English-language children's fiction written by female football players:

Picture Books by Female Soccer Players

Saved!!!

by Lydia Williams & Lucinda Gifford

Living in the Australian outback, young Lydia tries her hand at different sports with animal friends, only to be outmatched by their unique talents. But when Kangaroo suggests soccer, Lydia discovers her own gift and learns that perseverance can lead to triumph.

My review >

Winners Never Quit

by Mia Hamm & Carol Thompson

Young Mia loves soccer but hates losing - so much that she quits mid-game when things don’t go her way. With help from her siblings, she learns that true winners keep playing, no matter the score, and that teamwork and perseverance matter more than victory.

My review >

Hayley's Ribbon

by Hayley Rasso, Sarah Griffiths & Lisa Williams

Shy and uncertain, young Hayley finds courage through a special ribbon gifted by her nan, an emblem of love, strength, and connection. As she grows into a confident footballer, Hayley’s story inspires children to embrace their uniqueness and chase their dreams with heart.

Children’s Fiction Series by Women Footballers

The Wonder Team series

by Leah Williamson, Jordan Glover and Robin Boyden

Follow young footballer Leah and her friends as they travel through time to tackle historical injustices and solve thrilling mysteries, from banned women's football in the 1920s to ancient Egyptian treasure hunts and rainforest rescues. Blending sport, adventure, and heart, these fast-paced stories celebrate teamwork, resilience, and the power of friendship.

Titles in series:

• The Wonder Team and the Forgotten Footballers

• The Wonder Team and the Pharaoh’s Fortune

• The Wonder Team and the Rainforest Rescue

• The Wonder Team and the Football Phantom

Interested in more books about Leah Williamson? Take a look at this list!

Mackenzie Arnold series

by Mackenzie Arnold, Jess Black & Hannah McCaffrey

The Mackenzie Arnold series chronicles eleven-year-old Macca as she navigates friendship, school, and her growing passion for football with the Seaport Strikers, learning resilience and leadership both on and off the pitch. With lively illustrations and relatable challenges, these stories blend sport, heart, and humour to inspire young readers.

Titles in series:

• Mackenzie Arnold: Caught in the Middle

• Mackenzie Arnold: Finders Keepers

• Mackenzie Arnold: Game Play

• Mackenzie Arnold: The Big Leap

Kicking Goals series

by Sam Kerr

Eleven-year-old Sam switches from Aussie Rules to soccer, tackling bullies, self-doubt, and new challenges with the help of her friends and growing love for the game. Packed with humour, heart, and energetic illustrations, these stories inspire young readers to chase their dreams and embrace resilience.

Titles in series:

• Kicking Goals: The Flip Out

• Kicking Goals: New Knight

• Kicking Goals: Finals Fever

• Kicking Goals: Sports Day

You can find more books about Sam Kerr here!

The Kicks series

by Alex Morgan

The Kicks series by Alex Morgan spotlights twelve-year-old Devin Burke as she moves across the country and helps transform her struggling school soccer team into a force to be reckoned with, learning leadership, teamwork, and self-belief along the way. With fast-paced matches, friendship drama, and empowering themes, these twelve books blend sporty excitement with heartfelt storytelling.

Titles in series:

• The Kicks: Saving the Team

• The Kicks: Sabotage Season

• The Kicks: Win or Loss

• The Kicks: Hatrick

• The Kicks: Shaken Up

• The Kicks: Settle the Score

• The Kicks: Choosing Sides

• The Kicks: In the Zone

• The Kicks: Under Pressure

• The Kicks: Switching Goals

• The Kicks: Homecoming

• The Kicks: Fans in the Stands

Want to find more books about Alex Morgan? Here's a list!

Many of these authors have also written powerful non-fiction, sharing personal journeys, insights into the game, and reflections on resilience.