A sports memoir that doesn't take itself too seriously is wonderfully refreshing. In "The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer," Ella Toone, the beloved Lioness from England, provides us with a candid and entertaining glimpse behind the scenes of women's football, which is both insightful and genuinely funny.
The timing of this book couldn't be better. Toone, who recently lit up the WSL with a stunning hat trick in Manchester United's derby victory over City, brings the same electric energy to her writing that she displays on the pitch. After recovering from a two-month injury absence to win the January 2025 PFA Fans' Player of the Month, Toone has demonstrated her understanding of both setbacks and comebacks, themes that naturally permeate her narrative.
Written in diary format, the book strikes a perfect balance between the glamour of international football and the very human moments that make Toone so relatable. Whether she's describing pre-match jitters or post-victory celebrations, her voice remains authentically herself—chatty, warm, and often hilarious. It's like sitting down for a coffee with your most football-obsessed friend, who happens to be a European champion.
What sets this book apart from typical sports memoirs is its willingness to embrace the lighter side of professional football. Toone's accounts of team pranks and behind-the-scenes hijinks offer a refreshing counterpoint to the pressure-cooker environment of elite sports. Yet she never loses sight of the book's deeper purpose: inspiring the next generation of players. After the success of her previous collaboration, "Three Lionesses," Toone has evidently mastered the art of engaging with younger readers.
The diary format works particularly well here, making the high-stakes world of professional football accessible to readers of all ages. Toone's decision to structure the narrative around a major tournament provides natural tension, while her "flashbacks" offer valuable context about her journey from the Manchester United youth academy to becoming a European champion.
Perhaps the book's greatest strength is its honesty about the mental challenges of professional sports. Toone doesn't shy away from discussing her nerves or uncertainties, making her triumphs all the more meaningful. In an era where athletes are increasingly opening up about mental health, her candor feels both timely and important.
While die-hard football fans will appreciate the tactical insights and training ground details, you don't need to be a football expert to enjoy this book. Toone's personality shines through on every page, making it an engaging read for anyone interested in what it takes to succeed at the highest level of sports.
"The Not-So-Secret Diary of a Footballer" is more than just another sports memoir—it's a testament to the growing prominence of women's football and the characters who make the sport so compelling. Toone has delivered a winner that, like her performances on the pitch, leaves you wanting more.
Perfect for: Young football enthusiasts, aspiring athletes, and anyone who enjoys a behind-the-scenes look at professional sports. The accessible writing style makes it particularly suitable for readers aged 9-14, though adults will find plenty to enjoy as well.
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 Delivered to You 3rd Week, April 2025
Some publishers release new titles early, so our ETA above could change. Publisher: Visit PUFFIN
Published: April 17, 2025Price: £9.99 Paperback: 224 pagesISBN-10: 0241771587ISBN-13: 978-0241771587Dimensions: 153 x 216 (mm)
Reading Age: 9 - 13 years 
British Pound Sterling
