ELLA PLAYS FOOTBALL - HER GAME TOO | BOOK REVIEW

By Jacqui Thomas

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing a delightful children’s book by Alex and Kayleigh Barber and backed by the Gibraltar Football Association, prior to it’s release on 15th September.

The story is based on the true story of Ella, a little girl who loves football, but is told she cannot play because she is a girl. Ella is upset and despondent, but after some encouraging words from a talented female footballer, and her family’s support, she finds the strength to triumph and actually teaches the boys who mocked her, how to be part of a team.

Alex Barber explained “Our book was inspired by our own daughter who got bullied at school for her love and passion for football. We wanted to write this book to inspire young girls alike that football is a sport for everyone”

Even without the football theme, this story still has a very important message for both girls and boys. That message being, you can do anything that you set your mind to irrespective of gender or other people’s expectations of you.

The text is written as if the reader is being being spoken to directly and along with the bright, fun and charming illustrations by Taaya Griffith, it will spark interest in even the littlest of book lovers. It is a great story to share with your young family and to encourage early conversations about aspirations and achieving personal goals.

I work in a local Day Nursery, and this book is definitely one we shall be adding to our preschool collection.

Ella Plays Football - Her Game Too is published by Austin Macauley Publishers Limited.

A percentage of each book sold will go back into grassroots football.

PAPERBACK ISBN: 9781035828203

EBOOK ISBN: 9781035828210

#HERGAMETOO

Founded in May 2021, #HERGAMETOO is a voluntary campaign led by a team of dedicated female football fans who are passionate about creating a positive change in football and the wider sporting world. They aim to raise awareness and educate others on the importance of inclusivity and diversity.