Book Title: One Life
ISBN: 978-1984879590
Author: Megan Rapinoe
Publisher: Penguin Press
Publication Year: 2020
Price (as of February 2023): Approx. $27 in the United States and approx. £20 in the United Kingdom.Byline:
Byline: Stanley Chai
Maybe it’s just me, but I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason. And sometimes that reason is to kick us and tell us to live. To tell us to make the most of the time that we have, to go out and find our passion, to love and be loved, to be kind and empathetic and to change the world in whatever way we can. I’m not saying it’s easy, but I am saying it’s worth it. — Megan Rapinoe
Megan Rapinoe’s One Life is a powerful memoir that explores the intersection of her personal and professional life. From her childhood in Redding, California, to her rise to become one of the most prominent figures in women’s soccer, Rapinoe takes readers on a journey that is both inspiring and illuminating.
One of the most compelling aspects of the book is the way in which Rapinoe confronts some of the most difficult issues facing our society. Whether it’s the fight for pay equity, the struggle for LGBTQ rights, or the challenge of being a female athlete in a male-dominated world, Rapinoe approaches each topic with a sense of honesty and vulnerability that is rare in the world of professional sports.
The book begins with Rapinoe reflecting on her childhood in a conservative part of California, where she and her twin sister Rachael were raised by parents who instilled in them a love of sports and a commitment to social justice. From a young age, Megan and Rachael were competitive, driven, and unapologetically themselves. They stood out in their community not just because of their athletic talent, but because of their willingness to challenge the status quo and fight for what they believed in.
As Rapinoe’s career in soccer took off, she became increasingly aware of the power that comes with being a successful athlete. She recognised that she had a platform and a responsibility to use it for good, and she began to speak out about issues that mattered to her. One of the most important battles she has fought in her career is the fight for pay equity, both within women’s soccer and across all sports. She shares the frustrations and setbacks she has experienced in this fight, but also the progress that has been made and the hope that change is possible.
Another important theme of the book is Rapinoe’s personal life, particularly her relationship with WNBA star Sue Bird. Rapinoe writes candidly about falling in love with Bird and the challenges they have faced as a same-sex couple in the public eye. She also reflects on the importance of self-care and the ways in which she has had to prioritise her own mental and emotional wellbeing in order to stay grounded and focused.
Throughout the book, Rapinoe writes with a sense of purpose and urgency. She is unapologetically herself, and she encourages others to do the same. Her message is one of hope and empowerment, and she reminds us that we all have the power to make a difference in the world, no matter how big or small.
Overall, Megan Rapinoe’s One Life is a moving and inspiring memoir that will resonate with readers from all walks of life. Whether you’re a sports fan or not, Rapinoe’s story is one that will make you laugh, cry, and think deeply about the world around you. It’s a must-read for anyone who cares about social justice, equality, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.
