PELE

by Don Kowet ‧ RELEASE DATE: April 6, 1976

A short, simple, nco-poetic profile of that legendary futebol phenom focusing on his newfound role as a member of the New York Cosmos. A standout soccer player as a youth, Edson Arantes do Nascimento led Brazil to three World Cup Championships as his nickname became ""a synonym for superstar on five continents."" The author details how the Cosmos' general manager, Clive Toye, managed to lure PelÉ out of retirement and into the North American Soccer League for the 1975 season. The 34-year-old athlete subsequently suffered recurring leg injuries as the team failed to reach the NASL playoffs. Still, the 4(apple) million-dollar drawing card did show flashes of his ""ability to score goals and orchestrate attacking patterns"" as well as a ""messianic zeal towards promoting soccer"" in the States. Despite his celebrity status PelÉ is seen as a modest, God-fearing family man who enjoys what little privacy he has. Nice and respectful, but don't expect any kicks.

Pub Date: April 6, 1976

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Atheneum

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1976

Categories: NONFICTION