Learning to read and write is an important life skill that opens the door to knowledge, fuels critical thinking, and unlocks opportunities for personal and collective growth.
However, for many children around the world — especially girls and those affected by conflict or displacement — access to basic reading materials, skilled teachers, and safe schools remains out of reach. This reality shuts them out of opportunities to participate fully in society and traps them in endless cycles of poverty and inequality.
Every day a child is kept out of school is a day their potential is lost.
To ignite a global reminder of the power of education during this year’s International Youth Day, we asked Global Citizens to share “The Book That Changed My Life.” We also called on everyone — from everyday citizens to major companies — to donate to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund and help raise $30 million by September to support 30,000 children with access to learning and sport.
Here are the top 11 entries from across the world
1. “Sometimes Mom Has Thunder in Her Head” by Beatriz Taboada
“Sometimes Mom Has Thunder in Her Head” struck me because it tenderly shows how children and adults face difficult situations at home with love and understanding. Donating to the FIFA Global Fund for Citizenship Education before September can give 30,000 children the opportunity to learn, play, and find hope amid their own storms. — Laura Barajas, Mexico
2. “A Green Day ” by Jeevesh Gupta
“A Green Day” changed my life by turning my climate anxiety into purpose. It showed me that small, everyday actions matter, and that hope grows through community and courage. — Ina Maria Shikongo, Namibia
3. “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” by Rick Riordan
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians” completely changed my life because it made me feel understood and showed me that being different isn’t a weakness, but a superpower. It changed my perspective profoundly, and I’m forever grateful for it. I believe books like this open doors and help people like me feel seen and special — and that’s why education matters, and why donating to it means giving others the chance we’ve all had to change society in our own way. — Valerie Castro, United States
Help Unlock the Power of Education
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund is expanding access to education in some of the world’s most underserved regions, giving young people the tools and agency to choose their path in life – whether building resilience at home or seizing opportunity abroad.
4. “Aapka Bunty” by Mannu Bhandari
The novel “Aapka Bunty” by Mannu Bhandari is a commentary on the emotional cost of modern life and broken families. It highlights that education not only empowers the self, but also makes us more responsible toward others. This novel appeals for a society where children are not merely passive victims, but are given the space and voice they deserve. — Mahesh Kumar, India
5. “What Happened to You” by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce D. Perry
“What Happened to You” by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce D. Perry opened my heart to healing by helping me confront childhood trauma and reflect on growing up on the Cape Flats in Cape Town — a place shaped by poverty but rich in resilience. Every child deserves the chance to learn, heal, and dream. Please donate to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund so more children can have that opportunity. — Melissa Ndlovu, South Africa
6. “Now I Know Why Tigers Eat Their Young” by Dr. Peter Marshall
“Now I Know Why Tigers Eat Their Young” by Dr. Peter Marshall helped me realise how powerful patience, guidance, and love can be in shaping young minds. That’s why I’m supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, so that 30,000 children can have the chance to learn, play, and grow into the people they’re meant to be. — Catherina Nelson, Ghana
7. “Better Than The Movies” by Lynn Painter
“Better than the Movies” by Lynn Painter greatly changed the way I express myself to those around me. Building strong friendships has helped me navigate tough times. As a fellow soccer player, I believe it’s important that everyone is given an equal chance to play this beautiful sport. You should definitely support this by donating to the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. — Benjamin Haberjan, Germany
8. “The Bell Jar” by Sylvia Plath
“The Bell Jar” changed my life by educating me about women’s mental health and the expectations placed on them by society. I believe education is vital for raising awareness about women’s rights, learning to overcome societal expectations, and rising above them. — Aadya, United Arab Emirates
9. “Fratellino” by Ibrahima Balde
“Fratellino” is an Italian book that moved me deeply. As someone from Italy, this story changed how I see migration — not as news, but as the love of a brother searching for the other. Every child deserves safety, dignity, and family. Support Global Citizen and help protect them. — Simone Colella, Italy
10. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
“To Kill a Mockingbird” deeply impacted me by showing how courage, empathy, and justice can shine through even in the darkest moments of prejudice and inequality. Supporting the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund before September will help give 30,000 children the chance to learn and grow with the same values this powerful story inspires. — HM Obaidul Mostafa, United States
11. “Educated”by Tara Westover
“Educated” changed my views on the importance of education and the reality that not everyone has access to it. Education should not be a privilege — it should be a right. Together, we can make it happen. — Maria Ardila, United States
All quotes have been lightly edited for grammar and clarity.