Book Rec: The World’s Game
The World’s Game, published in June 2026, is a picture book written by Yamile Saied Méndez, who was born and raised in Rosario, Argentina, and now lives with her family in Utah. Illustrations are by Andrés Landazábal.
If you and your kids are bummed there are no more World Cup games this summer, this book will transport you back to game day!
The World’s Game inserts you into an on- and off-the-field experience of a soccer (football) match. Fans cheer, players play, and the world unites. And an added glimmer: the game is Spain vs. Argentina–the two teams that played the 2026 World Cup Final. Uncanny foresight by the author!
“One field, one ball, two teams, and a whole lot of fans.”
First Impressions
Fresh off the men’s World Cup, where over 100 games were played, this picture book puts the excitement right back in sight for your child. There are vibrant illustrations of the first whistle, game progression, and ardent fans rooting for their teams. The different flags and uniforms sprinkled throughout the book are also fun to point out.
The Journey
Ahh, the joy of your team scoring…and the agony of your team getting scored on. As fans gather to watch the game, they get their game day snacks and take it all in.
Does their team score next? Does someone make any game-winning goals? Gotta find out and read through the ups and downs that only a football match can provide.
Why You May Like This Book
If you and your kids are avid soccer fans, or maybe became so during this summer’s World Cup, it will be fun to revisit the many aspects of the beautiful game through story. Kids can point out Spanish and Argentine players, details of a watch party, and, of course, goooooooooles.
The excitement of a gameday is palpable. The World’s Game is a great way to experience all the feels of the beautiful game.
Where To Find More
Learn more about the author of The World’s Game at https://yamilemendez.com/
Marcella Lopez is a freelance authenticity/sensitivity reader, copyeditor, and writer based in San Diego, CA. She is a Mexican American woman, born and raised in Southern California. She loves hanging with her golden retriever and watching the beautiful game of fútbol. ig: @marcellalopezeditorial