Families who loved Call the Shots by Don Calame often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your teenage son is struggling with the pressures of toxic masculinity, peer-led bad decisions, or the overwhelming desire to fit in at any cost. This hilarious but poignant story follows Sean as he gets swept up in his friend's ridiculous scheme to film a low-budget horror movie. While the premise is comedic, the heart of the story explores Sean's journey toward setting boundaries and finding his own voice. Parents will appreciate the way it captures the genuine awkwardness of high school dating and the messy reality of male friendships. It is an ideal pick for reluctant readers who need a story that feels honest, irreverent, and relatable. Please note that the humor is geared toward mature teens, featuring frequent locker-room talk and frank discussions about adolescent attraction.