Families who loved Rodeo Summer by Judie Gulley 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 feels like an outsider in their own family, especially if they are struggling to find their place among more accomplished siblings. Rodeo Summer is about fifteen-year-old Janet, who feels inadequate and overweight in her family of skilled rodeo riders. She impulsively decides to train for barrel racing, a dangerous and demanding sport, choosing a spirited and difficult horse that no one else can handle. The book explores themes of resilience, self-confidence, and the courage it takes to face your fears. It’s a wonderful choice for a teen who needs to see that success comes from hard work and believing in yourself, not from being perfect from the start.