About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is struggling with the pressure to conform to gender stereotypes or feeling hesitant about joining an activity dominated by the opposite sex. This classic story follows Evan, a boy who decides to become a cheerleader to support his school and navigate the complex social hierarchy of junior high. It addresses the very real fears of being teased, the courage required to be a pioneer, and the evolving nature of friendships during puberty. Published in the mid-1980s, it remains a valuable tool for discussing how we define masculinity and what it means to be a supportive friend. It is perfectly suited for children ages 10 to 14 who are beginning to notice how peers judge one another for being different.
