His parents may have named him Edson Arantes do Nascimento, but to the rest of the world, he is known as Pele. The now-retired professional soccer forward stunned Brazil when he began playing for the Santos soccer club at age fifteen. He then went on to captivate the world when he joined his country’s national soccer team and helped them win three World Cup championships. Although he’s hailed as a national hero for his accomplishments in soccer, Pele has been an influential person both on and off the pitch. His work with organisations like UNICEF has helped improve conditions for children around the world. Young readers can learn more about the man who connected soccer with the phrase “The Beautiful Game.”
This is Book 153 in the Who Was? Series. See all Who Was? books here.
James Buckley, Jr. is a sports writer for children. He has written more than 50 books about sports for kids, including titles on baseball, football, NASCAR, soccer, the Olympics, and more.
More about James BuckleyGail Herman has written several biographies and nonfiction books, including Who Was Jackie Robinson? and What Is the World Series?
John Hinderliter is an award-winning illustrator and fine artist living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
More about Who HqJames Buckley Jr. has written more than 50 books for kids, including Who Was Jesse Owens? , Who Was Muhammad Ali? and Who Was Roberto Clemente?
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