U.S. Olympic Soccer Star Alex Morgan to Publish Children's Series

Posted on August 20, 2012

American soccer star and Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan will publish a three-book middle-grade series - called The Kicks - with Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. The first entry in the series will be published in Summer 2013.

Alex Morgan was a member of the U.S. soccer team that won a gold medal at the 2012 London Olympic Games. She scored a goal in extra time that helped put the team through to the final.

The Kicks features Devon, a new girl in town, and her three best friends, Jessi, Zoe, and Emma. Simon & Schuster says the series is as much about friendship, leadership, and discovering each girl's individual and unique strengths as it is about soccer.

Alex says, "I'm thrilled with the opportunity to create a book series with Simon & Schuster that will inspire young girls and celebrate my love of soccer. It seems like only yesterday, I was a kid myself, getting my first taste of the joys of teamwork, good sportsmanship, acceptance. Playing team sports is one of the best ways I can think of to develop strong values, good work ethics, and a health-focused lifestyle. This series will no doubt widen the appeal of soccer and bring an appreciation of the sport to readers who might not otherwise have that opportunity."