ONE LIFE

Soccer star Rapinoe commands attention both on and off the field.

In this memoir adapted for young readers, Rapinoe reflects on facing adversity and discovering what she’s made of over the course of her illustrious career. Rapinoe and her twin sister began playing soccer as children, joining a competitive boys’ team since there was no girls’ option in their small California town. Recognizing their potential, Rapinoe’s parents supported the girls through long drives, early mornings, and financial sacrifice. After the twins earned full soccer scholarships to the University of Portland, Rapinoe found new opportunities at the national and international levels and quickly made a name for herself. She discusses her growing understanding of her sexuality and racial politics and how this awareness led to her using her celebrity to champion causes from marriage equality to gender-based pay inequality in professional soccer. Rapinoe gained notoriety for kneeling during the national anthem, in alignment with her strong belief that White people have a responsibility to draw attention to systemic racism. Backlash against her activism has dogged her career, but Rapinoe challenges readers to use their voices to speak up for what they believe in, emphasizing that issues, just like people’s lives, are interconnected. Soccer fans will appreciate the game details and photos, from family snaps to moments from iconic matches. However, even the nonsporty will find much to appreciate in this inspiring and engagingly written book.

A captivating sports memoir that puts social justice at the forefront.