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Lionel Messi
Born in Argentina, soccer star Lionel Messi is most famous for being the best player on perhaps Spain's best team, FC Barcelona. During the 2011–12 season, Messi scored an astonishing 73 goals in 60 league games. When not on the pitch, Messi continues to amaze. Through his Leo Messi Foundation, he works to provide underprivileged children with access to education and healthcare. Readers will be both captivated by the action and touched by his rags-to-riches story.
* Reviews *
Sports Stars Who Care series. These books touch on the philanthropic efforts of the title sports stars, in some cases greatly padded by biographical information and career stats (Albert Pujols started a foundation for kids with Down syndrome, which his daughter has, making his efforts seem more personal). Beyond the do-gooder hook there's nothing much new, but reluctant readers will appreciate the accessible writing style and sports photographs. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind., The Horn Book Guide Spring 2014