David Beckham

Children's Literature - Carol Raker Collins

The "Remarkable People" series includes biographies of famous people who have overcome great obstacles, have achieved remarkable success, and/or have done noteworthy things to help others. David Beckham, the soccer player, scores high in all these areas. By his own scoreboard, David achieved his life goals and then some. From the age of four, he wanted to play for the Manchester United team in his hometown of England, and in 1991 at age sixteen he joined their junior team. He played his first Premier League game in 1995 and in 1996 kicked himself to fame by making a spectacular goal from the middle of the field against Wimbledon. He went on to play for Spain's Real Madrid and now for the Los Angeles Galaxy. He is currently the best known soccer player in the world. These triumphs are even more impressive since he was very small as a child and teenager and suffers from OCD. Another lifelong goal was achieved when he opened a soccer academy for children. David recognizes the important influence of his own family and coaches. He and his wife Posh Spice set up a charity for children in need around the world. The book is aimed at the middle reader with its catchy chapters, photos, and sports facts. It provides a challenge to write a biography by researching in the library and using a concept web for notes. A timeline puts David Beckham's life in the context of other world sports events. Glossary and index are included. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins, Ph.D.