Additional information
by Rajaf (Author)
A small player. A big dream.
One boy's journey to discover that determination matters more than size.
Diego Martínez is the smallest player at the elite Inter Miami soccer academy-and often the most overlooked. Although his talent earned him a place on the field, lingering self-doubt, the loss of his father, and repeated setbacks threaten his confidence and future in the sport. As opportunities seem increasingly out of reach, Diego must decide whether perseverance is enough to keep him moving forward.
Guided by his late father's words, "Reach for the moon," and supported by his family and a coach who values character as much as performance, Diego commits to the difficult work behind the scenes. Through injury, pressure, and moments of uncertainty, he learns that growth comes from resilience, discipline, and belief in oneself.
Inspired by true events, The Diego Martinez Story: Reach for the Moon is a middle-grade soccer novel that combines emotional depth with sports action. The story explores themes of perseverance, family support, confidence, and personal growth, offering encouragement to young readers navigating challenges both on and off the field.
Comparable in tone and appeal to works by Jason Reynolds and Kwame Alexander, this novel will resonate with readers who enjoy character-driven sports fiction.
Additional Content
- "Think & Kick" reflection prompts at the end of each chapter to encourage personal connection and discussion.
- A teacher and parent discussion guide addressing perseverance, self-confidence, managing setbacks, and growth through effort.
Recommended for readers ages 9-14, as well as parents, coaches, and educators seeking meaningful stories that promote resilience and motivation.
