In the glow of stadium lights and the hum of a cheering crowd,I learned hope from every pass, pride from every chant sung loud.From my father’s side I watched the world stitched in green and gold,A Portuguese heart beating for a game where courage is bold.Now Nikki stands beside me, eyes bright with her own spark—One goal, one planet, one future we protect with every kick, every heart.~ Momma Braga
A Book That Scores Big for the Planet and the Heart
One Goal: How Soccer Can Help Save the Planet is the kind of book that doesn’t just inform—it inspires. Heather Camlot and Drew Shannon take the world’s most beloved sport and show young readers how it can become a powerful force for environmental change. It’s smart, hopeful, visually engaging, and packed with real stories that make kids feel like they can be part of something bigger.
In true Momma Braga fashion, this review celebrates not only the book’s brilliance but also the emotional thread that ties it to our family: soccer as heritage, connection, and legacy.
Why This Book Resonates With Nikki (Age 11)
Nikki devoured this book with the same excitement she brings to watching a breakaway goal. At 11, she’s curious, thoughtful, and deeply aware of the world around her. This book speaks to her in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming.
Here’s why it hits home for her:
- It blends two things she loves: soccer and helping the planet.
- It shows real kids and real teams making real change.
- It’s filled with cool facts, bold illustrations, and stories that feel alive.
- It makes her believe she can make a difference—right now, not someday.
This book made me feel like I can help the world and still have fun doing it. — Nikki, age 11
Why It Speaks to Me as a Soccer‑Loving Mom
Growing up, soccer wasn’t just a sport—it was a language.
It was how my dad and I connected, how we celebrated, how we healed, how we dreamed. The game taught me discipline, pride, and the beauty of community. It taught me that every goal begins with a spark of belief.
Reading One Goal brought me right back to those moments.
It reminded me that the game I grew up loving is evolving, expanding, and stepping into a new role: protector of the planet.
And now, watching Nikki fall in love with the same sport—while also learning how it can shape a better world—feels like a full‑circle moment. A generational handoff. A legacy renewed.
A Story That Teaches Without Preaching
Camlot and Shannon strike the perfect balance:
- Environmental facts that are easy to understand
- Soccer stories that are exciting and relatable
- Action steps that feel doable for kids and families
- Hope woven through every page
This is the kind of book that sparks conversations at the dinner table, inspires school projects, and nudges families toward greener choices—one small step at a time.
Final Score: A Must‑Read for Young Changemakers
One Goal: How Soccer Can Help Save the Planet is more than a book—it’s a call to action wrapped in the joy of the beautiful game. It empowers kids like Nikki to believe that their voice matters and reminds parents like me that the traditions we pass down can evolve into something even more meaningful.
A true Momma Braga–approved treasure that belongs on every family’s shelf.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
~ Momma Braga
*Please note that this book was provided in exchange of an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own.
Wow, thank you so much for this review, Melanie. From one soccer-loving mom to another, I’m so glad you and Nikki both enjoyed it and that it sparked hope and empowerment.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for inspiring us with this story!