Furia by Yamile Saied Méndez
It feels like there is always room for more books about young people playing sport and Furia, a novel about a teen soccer player, is one of the highest quality.
Argentinean teenager Camilla is known as ‘Furia’ by her fútbol teammates. She loves the game and is dynamite on the field. Camilla has been playing in a women’s league but she hides this from her family; while a career in football is an option for her brother, Camilla has been banned from playing by her cruel father. Camilla is a determined young woman aware of her own potential with an irrepressible passion for the game.
When her team is given the opportunity to play at a higher level, it’s clear that Camilla must prioritise her dreams, but of course this is not without consequences. Recent social justice movements such as the Green Wave that saw Argentinean women fighting for their rights also provide a backdrop for the novel. Violence against women is commonplace, but the tide is turning and the women in the book find strength to fight back and support each other. Camilla experiences first love, and is an enriching presence as she teaches English to young students. Her determination to carve out her own career path and to be independent is constant even as she faces tough decisions that will shape her future.
Furia is a great read. Inspirational and empowering, Yamile Saied Mendez has given Camilla a voice that is strong and true. Fans of Angie Thomas and Elizabeth Acevedo should definitely check this one out. For ages 12+.
