Defending Irene

Reach for this book when your daughter feels sidelined because of her gender or when your child is struggling to find their place in a new, unfamiliar environment. Defending Irene captures the isolation of being an outsider and the grit required to challenge status quo traditions. Set in Italy, it follows a talented soccer player who refuses to accept that the local boys team is off limits to her. This story is a masterclass in resilience and self advocacy. While the focus is on sports, the emotional core deals with cultural barriers, the loneliness of moving abroad, and the courage to be the 'first.' It is perfectly suited for middle grade readers (ages 9 to 12) who are developing their own sense of justice and learning how to navigate social dynamics where they might not feel immediately welcome.