Cheerleading into Life’s Challenges: A Reflection on The Squad (The Tryout #2) by Christina Soontornvat
As a former middle schooler who navigated the confusing waters of friendships, crushes, and the looming specter of parenthood, The Squad (The Tryout #2) by Christina Soontornvat struck a heartfelt chord in me. Soontornvat’s ability to capture the essence of growing up—especially in a setting like a small Texas town in the ’90s—drew me in from the very first page. If you’ve ever wished for a book that marries the quirks of youth with the intricacies of personal identity, this one is for you.
In The Squad, we’re reintroduced to Christina, who, despite not making the 8th-grade cheerleading squad, approaches life with a refreshing optimism. Her passion for cheer routines alongside her friends Megan and Leanne, combined with her burgeoning crush on the adorably cute Andy, makes her world feel rich and vibrant. Yet, beneath this seemingly sunny exterior, Christina grapples with a labyrinth of emotions—namely the tension at home stemming from her parents’ struggling restaurant and the impending divorce that shakes her very foundation.
What resonated deeply with me was how authentically Soontornvat portrays the emotional complexity of Christina’s life. The narrative is peppered with lighthearted moments—like their art project focusing on "sculptures of toes"—which contrast sharply with the weight of her family struggles. Christina’s attempts to reconcile her heritage, highlighted by her experiences as the only Asian girl in her town, further layer her character. I found her story to be a medium for middle schoolers to reflect on their own cultural identities, as well as a great conversation starter for families grappling with similar issues.
Soontornvat’s writing style shines with a playful nostalgia. The charming details—like the stress ball that transports readers back to the ’90s—ground the story in reality while also serving as delightful reminders of the era. The pacing is superb, with moments of tension balanced beautifully by humor and relatable awkwardness. The dialogue captures the essence of middle school interactions with such authenticity that I could almost hear the echoes of my own past.
As Christina dives into cheerleading camp, the narrative takes on a deeper nature. The dynamics among her squad, particularly the fallout when Leanne doesn’t make the team, reveal genuine emotions and unearths layers of friendship that many preteens encounter. This exploration feels critical; it highlights how shifting relationships can affect one’s sense of self-worth and belonging.
One of the most poignant moments for me was Christina’s burgeoning realization that friendship should be genuine, not conditional on status or popularity. Her evolving relationship with Andy is a marvelous reflection of this theme. The conversations between them are sweet, yet they poignantly illustrate the reality that common interests aren’t everything—something a lot of us learn the hard way in our own youthful experiences.
In conclusion, The Squad (The Tryout #2) is a beautifully crafted tale that feels both relatable and timely. I would highly recommend it for middle graders, especially those navigating their own feelings of identity, friendship, and familial change. It’s a comforting reminder that while life may not be perfect, it often holds surprising joys amidst its challenges. This book left me with a sense of hope and a gentle reminder that growing up, while messy, can also be incredibly enlightening. I can’t wait to see what Soontornvat conjures up next!
Discover more about The Squad (The Tryout #2) on GoodReads >>