Elmo's World: Be a Soccer Player!

Children's Literature - Carrie Hane Hung

Elmo and his friends from Sesame Street share different bits of information and vocabulary about the sport of soccer. The main text is comprised of brief and varied information about soccer such as how the team members move the ball on the field. Using speech bubbles, Elmo and the other characters add information about what the goalie does, what sportsmanship is, and how soccer is exercise. In the illustrations, the characters stand out in the color photographs and the backgrounds are simple color drawings. One illustration labels the different pieces of clothing worn while playing soccer. Although this board book with its bold colors and Sesame Street characters is aimed for a young audience, the different pieces of information may not hold their attention if they are not familiar with soccer or have an interest in it. With some guidance and brief conversation by an adult or older reader to accompany the book, some children may become intrigued by soccer. This book is part of the "Elmo's World" series. Reviewer: Carrie Hane Hung