
Reach for this book when your child feels discouraged by a lack of immediate talent or is struggling to find the 'fun' in a competitive environment. It is a perfect choice for the young athlete who needs to understand that greatness is built on passion and practice rather than just natural luck. Jack and Annie travel back to the 1970 World Cup in Mexico City to find a 'secret of greatness' from the legendary Pelé. Along the way, they navigate massive crowds and their own insecurities about the game. This story beautifully models resilience and the importance of playing for the love of the sport, making it an ideal bridge for elementary readers moving into longer chapter books. It offers a gentle, historical perspective on perseverance that stays grounded in a child's everyday reality.
The book is very low-stakes and secular. It touches on the overwhelming nature of large crowds and the pressure of performance, but it does so in a hopeful and supportive way.





















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Sign in to write a reviewAn 8-year-old who loves sports but is perhaps 'riding the bench' or feeling frustrated that they aren't the best player on their team yet.
This is a very safe read-aloud or independent read. No prep is needed, though knowing a few facts about Pelé might enhance the post-reading conversation. A parent might see their child wanting to quit a team after a bad game or hearing their child say, 'I'm just not good at this.'
Younger readers (ages 6-7) will focus on the magic and the excitement of the big game. Older readers (9-10) will better grasp the historical context of the 1970s and the deeper message about the 'secret' to success.
Unlike many sports books that focus on winning the 'big game,' this book focuses on the internal mindset of a legend and the joy of the sport itself.
Jack and Annie are sent by Merlin on a mission to Mexico City during the 1970 World Cup. They must find one of four 'secrets of greatness' to help save Merlin's staff. Amidst the frenzy of the soccer tournament, they search for the great Pelé. When they find themselves in the middle of a game with local children, they realize that greatness isn't about fame, but about the heart and dedication one puts into their passion.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.