Queerleaders

By: Olivia A. Cole and Ashley Woodfolk

Many thanks to Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing for the ARC of this book!

Kendall and Nia get kicked out of their private school and start to attend Oak Haven High. They don’t know anyone there, but Nia wants to try out for the cheerleading squad. Kendall is the reason Nia got kicked out of the private school, so she tries out with Nia. Initially, Nia makes the squad, but when a student that is mad that they didn’t make the squad claims that the squad is discriminatory against heterosexuals, they also take Kendall because she’s straight. Kendall is really bisexual and has a thing for the captain, Davie. Can they keep it a secret? Can Kendall stay in the closet so that the squad doesn’t lose funding? Will they make it to nationals?

This was a fun read. This is very much a young adult book. Not only because it takes place in high school, but the characters definitely act like high schoolers. I applaud the authors for writing authentic characters. A lot of time characters in YA books say and do things that make readers think “someone that age would never say/do that.!” None of that happened here.

Queer and bisexual representation was the center of this book, as well as friendships and fitting in. Whatever the sexual identity is, friendships and fitting in are something a lot of people struggle with in high school. Kids are looking for the group that accepts them and welcomes them. Davie and the squad are so welcoming of Kendall and Nia – it’s never easy being the new kids at school. The form bonds that will probably last them a lifetime.

There are quite a few references to Bring It On in here. That movie was definitely an inspiration for this book. Maybe there was one too many references for me. But otherwise, this was a very fun read.

Publish Date: May 19, 2026
Find the book here.
*This post contains an affiliate link. I earn a small commission if you purchase the book through this link.