Courage in Her Cleats: The Story of Soccer Star Abby Wambach

As a child, Abby Wambach was loud and clear about what she wanted and what she didn't, and she didn't want to be left out of any competition--especially soccer.

In this powerful biography, readers will dance and dart down fields with Abby as she slingshots--balls thwump... whiz... whoosh--straight into goals, sweating and scoring her way from school league leader to U.S. Women's National Team star.

The story follows Abby through both success and setbacks because while even pro athletes miss goals, face losses, and can get injured, determined Abby has always been tougher than her toughest challenge.

Readers will cheer on this talented fan favorite as she kicks the legendary U.S. Women's team toward Olympic fame, while also being reminded that there's just as much inspiration in Abby's struggles as in her victories.

Publisher: Page Street Kids
Published: 01/10/2023
Pages: 32
Weight: 0.92lbs
Size: 10.39h x 8.66w x 0.47d
ISBN: 9781645676294
Age: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 12/01/2022 pg. 98
Kirkus Reviews 12/01/2022
Booklist 01/01/2023 pg. 53
Publishers Weekly 01/23/2023

About the Author

Kim Chaffee was in seventh grade when she first played soccer and quickly realized she was better at hand-eye coordinated sports than foot-eye ones. She's always admired the physical and mental toughness of those that play the game at all levels, especially Abby Wambach. Today, Kim carries her courage in her climbing shoes as she learns the new skill of rock climbing. Kim is the author of Her Fearless Run: Kathrine Switzer's Historic Boston Marathon and Nothing Wee About Me! (both Page Street Kids) and lives with her family in New Hampshire.

Alexandra Badiu Is a children's book illustrator and visual developer for animation. She grew up in a family of athletes and played soccer herself in elementary school. Having seen her brother struggle with a similar leg injury, she especially sympathizes with the long, hard recovery in Abby's story. Herself, she sees the importance of patience when firing pottery and helping plants grow. Alexandra lives in Izmir, Turkey.