Background
Published in 2021, “Pele” is an autobiographical look at the remarkable life of Edson Arantes do Nascimento, famously known as Pele. With a balanced narrative, Pele shares his humble origins in impoverished Brazil, his rapid ascent to international stardom, and his accomplishments both on and off the soccer field.
My Thoughts
It’s always humbling and thought provoking to read an autobiography from someone who was born poor outside of the United States. We are so very blessed in this country and it’s a shame so many people aren’t aware of how many advantages we have. Pele or Edson wasn’t really born poor by the standards of those around him but it is a world of difference to the average family in the US.
There were so many things I didn’t know about him outside of the soccer field. I found the persona he crafted to be likable despite the occasional Latino machismo-like feel. He comes across as basically a good person who is doing his best in a world of corruption. However, the book was slow and I feel like I had to push myself to finish it.
Recommendation
If you are a fan, I’d bet you’d love it. For the rest of us, you could skip this one without too much guilt.