Messi's magic: how lionel messi became the g.o.a.t.

discover how footballer lionel messi defied the odds and became the g.o.a.t. in this inspiring story teeming with excitement, emotion, and messi facts galore!

**a junior library guild selection**

a 2026 children's book council kids' favorites award winner

★ "at a time when messi biographies are in abundance, this one stands out" –school library journal, starred review

"a fitting tribute to a stellar role model." –booklist

how did a small, shy, soccer-obsessed child with a serious medical condition become a goal-scoring, record-breaking, once-in-a-generation sensation?

for everyone who loves soccer, dreams big, and is inspired by heroes who triumph against the odds, messi's magic delivers a thrilling, deeply emotional story.

filled with action-packed pictures and never-before-seen detail, it spotlights lionel "leo" messi's early years and shows how, even when facing loss, loneliness, and setbacks, he never gave up on his goal. leo's resilience and big-heartedness on the journey to become the g.o.a.t. are as inspiring as his dazzling style of play. this humble hero has ignited passion in millions and sparked the movement: messi mania!

enriched with statistics, career highlights, a timeline, and fun facts, messi's magic is a gift to soccer fans of all ages.