Back of the Net by Eve Ainsworth is a sweet and uplifting story about Eva, a girl who absolutely loves football (soccer) but struggles with her confidence because of her psoriasis. After being teased at her old school, she’s unsure about trying out for the team again, but with encouragement from her brother and friends, she gives it another shot. Along the way, Eva learns that true friends will stand by you no matter what and that everyone has their own battles, even if they don’t show them. It’s a heartwarming story about self-acceptance, resilience, and the power of friendship, all wrapped up in a fun sports setting that makes it really relatable and inspiring.

A warm, uplifting read that really touched me—as my sister has the same condition as Eva. Seeing it represented with such honesty meant a lot. Eva’s journey from hiding her skin to playing with pride is inspiring, and the football setting adds energy and fun. Short, accessible, and full of heart.

An inspiring middle-grade read for kids who love football and for anyone learning to embrace who they are. It’s not just about the sport, but also about self-acceptance, friendship, and finding the courage to live openly with an illness.

A great book about Eva playing football, bullying, and believing in yourself. Eva has psoriasis and hides it because she was bullied at her last school and enjoys playing football for fun. When her friends ask her to come to tryouts, she agrees to come but wears her track suit because she hasn’t told them of her skin condition. She agrees to join the team. At a game a fan from the other team sees Eva and says don’t touch her. Eva is embarrassed and leaves. She feels she needs to quit the team and goes to practice to tell them. The team says don’t let the bullies get to you. Will Eva stay on the team?
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.