Pub Date: September 2, 2025
Dewey: B
LCCN: 2024041679
Lexile Code: 0610
Features: Dust Cover, Illustrated, Price on Product
Target Age Group: 04 to 08
Physical Info: 0.44" H x 11.16" L x 8.86" W ( 1.11 lbs) 48 pages
BISAC Categories:
Description: "Widely regarded as one of the most skilled soccer players of all time, Lionel Messi did not reach success easily. As a child, he was diagnosed with a disorder that stunted his growth and threatened to crush his promising career. But through hard work and determination-and the support of his family, especially his beloved Abuela-Leo overcame his challenges and his natural shyness, to become one of the most inspirational figures the sports world has ever seen. Messi's Magic tells Leo's remarkable story-and shows just why the United States and the world have been swept up in Messi Mania"--
Review Quotes:
**A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection**
A 2026 Children's Book Council Kids' Favorites Award Winner
★ "At a time when Messi biographies are in abundance, this one stands out for its celebration of the phenom's dedication and resilience in the face of childhood struggles. A first purchase for school and public library biography shelves of an admirable role model." --School Library Journal, starred review
"Young readers and Messi fans will love every aspect of this picture book biography." --American Youth Services Book Review
"Perry tells an inspiring story full of excitement and emotion...I loved this biography! Lozano's colorful and deep illustrations bring this story to life." --Kiss The Book, Jr