Shooting Star

A parent might reach for this book when their ambitious, high-achieving teen is facing intense pressure to succeed, particularly in sports. It addresses the temptation to cut corners and the struggle to maintain integrity. The novel follows Jomo Rogers, a talented high school football player who begins taking steroids to gain an edge. While his performance on the field becomes legendary, his personal life, health, and sense of self spiral out of control. The story powerfully explores themes of honesty, guilt, and the danger of tying one's entire identity to a single achievement. For teens 14 and up, this book is a gripping cautionary tale that serves as a fantastic starting point for conversations about ethics, peer pressure, and the true cost of winning.