Wonder Goal!
on Goodreads (25)
What’s inside...
Wonder Goal! is a picture book that captures the fantasy and excitement of soccer through the eyes of a child dreaming of scoring the perfect goal. The book, with simple text and vibrant watercolors by Michael Foreman, illustrates the drama and magic of soccer, whether it's played in a local field or the World Cup final.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
The Boy
Discussion points
What was your favorite part of the story and why?
How did the main character feel when he scored the Wonder Goal? Have you ever felt similar?
Why is teamwork important in achieving goals, as shown in the story?
What would you have done if you were in the main character's shoes during the big game?
How do you think practicing hard helped the characters in the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite scene in detail, which can help enhance their memory and storytelling skills.
Discuss the emotions of the characters at different points in the story to help your child develop empathy and understanding of feelings.
Use examples from the book to talk about the importance of teamwork and perseverance in achieving goals, relating it to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings to the story to foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
Celebrate effort and hard work by drawing parallels between the characters’ practice and dedication and your child's personal experiences in sports or other activities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Wonder Goal!', the protagonist collaborates with his teammates to score the titular goal. This demonstrates the power of working together to achieve a common objective.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging in team activities at school or in sports, learning how to cooperate and value each member's contribution.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Hard Work
Explanation: The journey of the young soccer player showcases the importance of persisting and practicing diligently to excel in any field.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to stay committed to their goals, whether in academics, sports, or hobbies, understanding that success often requires consistent effort.
Example Lesson: Imaginative Thinking
Explanation: The story inspires readers to dream big through its depiction of the young boy vividly imagining scoring a 'wonder goal,' blending reality with aspiration.
Real-World Application: Children learn to use their imagination to set lofty goals and envision achieving them, fostering creative thinking and ambition in personal aspirations.
Example Lesson: Sportsmanship
Explanation: Despite the competitive nature of the game, the characters in the book are shown respecting each other, emphasizing the spirit of fair play.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of respect and integrity in competition, which can be applied in school sports or any competitive settings they encounter.