Lucía’s Goals/Los goles de Lucía

Gr 1-4–Protagonist Lucía represents several international female soccer players who faced economic and cultural challenges before professionally playing the game. This bilingual picture book’s author and illustrator both have a passion for soccer (fútbol), which comes through on the page. Barragan Forshay’s portrayal of Lucía and her teammates reveals the young girls’ struggle to curb their competitive natures so each player can put her best foot forward as an individual—in life and on the field. Young readers will ­relate to the choices Lucía makes to keep up with her soccer-playing brothers, which later makes her stronger when she must help support her family financially. Quezada Padron effectively turns this sports tale into a larger metaphor about a girl’s dreams, bringing Lucía’s story arc home. Part fairy tale, part social ­commentary, this account empowers readers to pursue personal goals even with difficult setbacks. The author’s notes can help generate ­discussion about gender, identity, sportsmanship, and teamwork, especially relevant now with the impending 2026 FIFA World Cup, and thereafter.