Families who loved Cheer Choice by Jake Maddox 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 child is facing a complex friendship dilemma where personal loyalty and competitive fairness are at odds. It is especially helpful for children navigating the transition of a best friend moving away and the subsequent feelings of betrayal that can arise when shared secrets or 'special things' are no longer exclusive. The story follows Colleen, a cheerleader who discovers her former best friend is using their secret squad routine at a new school. It provides a relatable framework for discussing ethics in sports and the value of integrity over winning. The language and 72-page length make it an accessible, fast-paced choice for reluctant readers or those in the middle-elementary years who need a mirror for their social challenges.