Families who loved Cheerleaders Summer Special by Caroline B. Cooney often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is navigating the intense, often painful feelings of jealousy and comparison within a close friendship. This story follows a high school cheerleading squad at a summer camp, where best friends Mary Ellen and Nancy find their bond tested by rivalry, romantic interests, and a series of unsettling accidents. It delves into themes of self-confidence, loyalty, and the struggle to belong. Appropriate for early to mid-teens, this book from the 80s offers a classic take on teen social dynamics, providing a great starting point for conversations about handling envy and communicating honestly with friends.