Queerleaders

In the tradition of Bring It On, previous collaborators Cole and Woodfolk (Call Your Boyfriend) deliver a spirited sports romance that follows an out-and-proud all-queer cheer team as they navigate competition, conservative critics, and romance on the road to nationals. Starting over after expulsion from her previous school, Kendall Hayes finds herself thrust into Oak Haven High’s cheer program just as Hornets team captain Davie Cathee determines that the squad must score a championship title. After a scorned prospect for the Hornets accuses them of anti-straight bias, Davie refutes the claim by offering Kendall—whom Davie believes is straight—a spot on the team. The stakes escalate as sparks ignite between Davie and Kendall, who must keep their budding relationship a secret or risk school administration pulling the Hornets’s funding over discrimination accusations. While the story at times buckles under the weight of jam-packed plotting (Kendall and Davie’s romance repeatedly takes a backseat to external pressures), and key conflicts surrounding funding battles, secret relationships, and team politics feel underdeveloped, fans of sports-centered love stories will appreciate the energetic cheer sequences, exuberant characters, celebratory atmosphere, and strong messaging about the importance of inclusivity and social advocacy. The cast is intersectionally diverse. Ages 14–up. Agents: (for Cole) Trinica Sampson, New Leaf Literary; (for Woodfolk) Beth Phelan, Gallt & Zacker Literary. (May)