Football Fun

Take a closer look at Ethiopia’s national obsession through the eyes of the children who love to play football (soccer) in the fields and streets of Ethiopia. Like the self-described “football fanatics” who cheer on the national team, the Walia Antelopes, many Ethiopians enjoy playing for fun with friends and neighbors around East Africa. It is as much a social activity as a recreational one, and it is shared widely among the children of Ethiopia. Learn to read in Amharic and English with the running, joyous feet of happy children. Side by side bilingual text supports emerging readers and charming watercolor illustrations bring the game to life.

Some illustrations feature the One World Futbol that “never needs a pump and never goes flat.” These blue futbols are a favorite item among tourists who often bring them to Ethiopia in their luggage to donate to local kids, inspired by the motto “Play is in our DNA—a need as important as food, medicine and shelter.”