THE SQUAD The Tryout, Book 2

As the story opens with Christina's family eating out, the ensemble of narrators provides a realistic delivery. Later, believing that eighth grade will be her best year yet, Christina persuades her two best friends to try out for cheerleading, even after the heartbreak of not making the squad in their last attempt. Grace Li shines at conveying the wide range of emotions Christina navigates over the course of the year as she faces difficult challenges. These include the end of her parents' marriage and dealing with old and new friendships. Complications ensue when Christina makes the cheering squad, but neither of her friends does. The author's note illustrates the universality of the themes in this fictionalized memoir. E.J.F. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2025]