Soccer Encyclopedia

The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia (2006) by Clive Gifford. 144 pages.

ISBN: 0-7534-5928-0

Colorful, visually attractive book with interesting photos of soccer players and graphics of game actions. Information is presented in accessible text, covering playing the game, soccer legends and great teams, mental tactics, significant competitions, and soccer facts. Includes a glossary and weblinks as well.

An interesting and informative book for those who enjoy soccer as well as those who may have a fleeting interest. Appealing format (and timely read for the Summer World Cup) for 10 to 13 year olds.

Runway Rose (#9 of The English Roses)

Runway Rose, #9 of The English Roses (2009) by Madonna. 124 pages.
ISBN: 978-0-14-241126-1

The English Roses are "the coolest, hippest, most rockin'" 11 year old girls living a privileged life. They have sleepovers, have butlers and get chauffered to school. Most importantly, they are good friends and cheer for each other.

This episode in the Roses' lives finds Grace being an amazing soccer player and Amy getting a job working at a Teen Fashion Week. Preparing for the fashion show is hectic and exciting.

Expressive and silly pencil drawings enhance the story. A couple incidences of instant messaging text is fun to read. Fun book for 9 to 11 year olds.

-----------------------------
I spotted a short blurb in the Style section of the Sunday, June 27, 2010 San Francisco Chronicle. It mentioned a new clothing line by Madonna, inspired by her 13year old daughter Lourdes, "Lola". Click (here) for the People Magazine's Sneak Peak: "Madonna and Lourdes' Material Girl Line for Macy's".

I'll be curious if this line becomes popular with the tween set.