This is a brilliant little book that, more than proposing a real
theory of globalization, uses soccer as a lens to take a deeper
look at some of the fallout of that a more connected world.
I've read plenty of Foer's work through Slate and he always brings
reflective approach to his writing on international politics and
America's domestic politiscape. He doesn't miss here, although
takes a lighter approach than typical for him.
Essentially Foer presents a series of vingettes that let's us
examine a cross section of a political situation through soccer.
Particularly striking for me were the chapters that looked at the
place of soccer in the Balkan wars of the 90s and the nationalist
Barca team that represents Catalans in Spain.
I love that Foer takes a piece of his life that he personally loves
and uses it in his professional life. Like he says in his
introduction, this book is essentially an excuse for him to travel
and watch soccer.
Don't worry if you don't know soccer, he'll help you. Don't worry
if you don't know politic, he'll help you. Give it a try.