Luisa the Fantastic
Luisa loves football, but the boys say girls can't play. On her village's Independence Day, she finally gets her chance to show what she can do.

Luisa the Fantastic Ross Merry da Gloria


Luisa is a girl who loves football and adventures.

On the 20th of May, her village celebrated Independence Day by organizing numerous games for the community.

After hearing about a football game, Luisa decided she wanted to play. However, her male friends did not want her to play because they said that she is a girl and not strong like them.

Luisa wanted to prove that she can do it.

“You cannot play. It is only for boys. You will easily fall” said Alinu to Luisa.

Luisa replied, “Why do you not let me play? Are you afraid of seeing me win?” Alinu felt ashamed, so he let Luisa play with them.

The game started, Luisa played well and made a goal. Alinu was surprised!

Luisa continued to score one more goal, while Alinu felt tired and wanted to rest.

Finally, Luisa and her friends won the game. Alinu, who was assisting the game, with disappointment said to Luisa “You played better than the boys.” His friends added, “Because this game is not created for us, boys only. This game is for everyone.”

Luisa felt happy that she could show off her talents. When she gets older, she is going to play football and represent Timor-Leste.

Story from Global Digital Library
· Ross Merry da Gloria · The Asia Foundation – Let's Read, 2020
· CC BY 4.0