The Big Kick

Written and Illustrated By: Nicolas F

This book is dedicated to my dear Reading Buddy Lucas S.

The Big Kick Written and Illustrated By: Nicolas F

Some time ago in Central America, there lived a jaguar named Lucas. Ever since he was a pup, he would go every day to see children play Soccer. He would watch for hours while they played. He knew every position, pass, and kick. As he watched, he learned more and more about Soccer.

One day years later, the Soccer ball rolled up from the side line and Lucas kicked a perfect kick back to one of the players. All the players looked at each other in astonishment. One of them said under their breath, " How does this animal know how to play soccer?" and strangely the Jaguar responded and said, " I have watched all of you for years and over time have learned much about soccer." The players were in shock! How had this Jaguar responded? They asked him what his name was. He said that his name was Lucas and he lived in the beautiful forest not far from here. They asked him if he wanted to play a match with them. Although it was 1 person against 7 people, Lucas still won.

After more consideration, they asked if he wanted to go to the World Cup to perform his outstanding talent at half time. In the World Cup, he would have to score a goal on the best goalie in the world, Manuel Neuer. Lucas said that he couldn't because he didn't believe in himself and he wasn't confident in himself. After some more convincing though, Lucas decided to go.

Once they arrived in Spain, Lucas was frightened. He had never seen so many people. He felt like he had butterflies in his stomach. But after some time, he was confident about being around people and he knew that he would have no problem showing his talent.

Soon before he expected it, it was time for Lucas to perform. As he stepped on to the field, he felt very anxious. He was so excited he wanted to jump for joy. As people saw that a Jaguar was going to perform for the half time show, they were all excited to see what he could do. He started to get ready to kick, but then an idea came to his mind. He asked one of the players to cross a corner kick to him.

As the player kicked the ball, people were on the edge of their seats. Suddenly, they cheered and screamed! The Jaguar had done a Chilena! The crowd went wild and Lucas finally believed in himself. " You did it! " said one of the soccer players. " I can't believe it! " responded Lucas.