Kickin’ It with a Little Christmas Magic!
Cleats Like Messi scores big with heart, humor, and holiday magic — proving that sometimes the toughest players need a little teamwork (and a sprinkle of sparkle) to win the real game. 🎄⚽

Cleats Like Messi is the kind of middle-grade story that sneaks up on you with its heart. It starts with Lee, a tough kid who seems impossible to like, but as the story unfolds, you can’t help rooting for him. Between his grandad’s accident, the impossible Christmas Cup, and those mysterious magical cleats, I found myself completely caught up in his struggle to turn things around. What really got me was how the story blended soccer action with real emotion — it’s not just about goals, but about growing up, forgiveness, and teamwork. I especially enjoyed seeing Lee’s transformation; it reminded me that everyone deserves a second chance. I couldn’t put it down and finished it with a big smile and maybe a tear or two.

Messi Magic and Mayhem!
Okay, I’ll admit it — I was not expecting a story about a grumpy twelve-year-old soccer bully to hit me right in the feels! But wow, Cleats Like Messi kicks hard. When Lee gets his hands on these wild, magical cleats, everything changes — on and off the field. Suddenly he’s winning games, reading minds (yep, seriously), and learning that being the best doesn’t mean being the biggest jerk. The story’s got laughs, drama, and just enough Christmas sparkle to make you cheer. I read the whole thing in one go, yelling “GOAL!” more times than I’d like to admit. Total 5-star kick! ⚽💥🎅