Book Clubs

1. Beka stated emphatically that the team will travel to America, when in fact there were significant hurdles that had to be overcome. While in the U.S. in 2010, Beka stated that before she died, she wanted to host a Grannies World Cup. That would come to pass in March of 2023. Discuss the power of envisioning and voicing what others might view as impossible dreams.

2. Beka was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 35. At the hospital when undergoing treatments, instead of focusing on her own suffering, she observed and inquired about the ailing older women she saw around her. What role do you think her positivity, curiosity, and empathy played in her journey of healing and recovery? Do you know people who have endured health issues and gained something positive for themselves or others?

3. On and off the soccer field, what universal joys bring the Grannies happiness? What universal challenges do they face? What cultural differences do you see in the way they express joy and deal with challenges?

4. The narrative of the story was interrupted at a few points to share the life story of one of the Grannies. What aspects of these biographies touched you?

5. Have you played a team sport? What physical and emotional benefits have you gained from it? What other kinds of teams are you on?  What do you think makes a strong and effective team?

6. Women have fought for the right to play football/soccer in Europe, the US, and South Africa. Why do you think this history has repeated itself around the world? Sport can be empowering for women. How would you like to see the culture around sports, and women’s sports in particular, continue to evolve?

7. Was there a particular scene in the book that made you laugh or made you cry? Why?

8. Beka leads with love, listens with care, and makes helpful connections. Can you think of a recent time when you helped a friend in need? What approach did you take?

9. The author included background on colonialism and apartheid in South Africa and their enduring effects on the lives of these South African women. What did you learn that expanded your knowledge or challenged your assumptions?

10. What makes it possible for the Lexpressas and the Soccer Grannies to forge a meaningful cross-cultural relationship? What are the benefits? When can cross-cultural relationships be problematic?

11. For someone who is not an avid soccer fan or has not played a team sport, what is there to learn and take away from the story of the Soccer Grannies?

12. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not? All book proceeds are being donated to support Beka’s work improving the health of older women in South Africa, so that’s one reason to consider recommending it. Beka, the Soccer Grannies, and Jean thank you. For more information, check out JeanDuffy.com.