Behind The Book Jumping Into Cheer | A Boys’ Cheerleading Story You’ll Love

He thinks this book is about him. He told me he was going to take it into school and announce, “This was written about me.” Honestly, I think that’s the cutest little thing. I love it.

Hey, are you ready to open the next cheer chapter? I’m Alison Sack. With over 20 years in the cheerleading industry – and somehow an author now too – I’m here to give it to you straight. No fluff, just useful tips, honest stories, and all the quirks from life on the mat and in the books.

Whether you’re folding laundry, on the school run, or just trying to survive the day – you’re in the right place. So grab your coffee (or your jug of water if you’re a cheer parent), and let’s turn the page.

Today, we’re diving into how book number three of the Little Cheer Library came to be: Jumping Into Cheer.

Why This Book?

After releasing my first two stories, Cheer For You and I Want That Skill, I had a few requests to write a cheer book with a boy as the main character. And they were right – there really aren’t many out there.

So I wanted to change that.

I wanted boys to see themselves in a cheerleading story. To know they belong in this sport, that they can love it, excel at it, and be inspired by it. Jumping Into Cheer was written for all those little lads who needed a story where they’re not just a side character – they’re the hero.

Meet Carter

The protagonist of this book is Carter. He was named after the only boy’s name my husband and I actually agreed on when I was pregnant! We didn’t end up using it in the end – our son didn’t look like a Carter – but I wanted this name in print as a nod to him, because he’s the reason this whole author journey even began.

Carter looks a bit like my son too – part Chinese, part English, with his own cheeky charm. And funnily enough, a little boy at a recent photo shoot swore blind that Carter was him! He was so proud, he said he’d take the book into school to show everyone. That’s the beauty of stories like this – children can see themselves on the page.

The Inspiration

This story pulls from my own time running a cheer gym. I once coached a group of young boys who weren’t sure about cheerleading. When we travelled to a big competition in Perth, they discovered just how many boys were in the sport.

And then something amazing happened. A team from my friends gym had just performed – incredible, powerful partner stunts from their male athletes. My little boys were in absolute awe. After their routine, those athletes came over, sat down with them, and had a chat. Just a few minutes of encouragement, but it left the biggest mark.

That’s what stuck with me. That’s what I wove into Carter’s story.

Carter’s Journey

In Jumping Into Cheer, Carter is your typical nine-year-old – rides, sugar, carnival chaos – until something sparkly catches his eye. Cheerleaders.

One flyer (the paper kind, not the person!) leads him to a free trial at the local gym. At first, he wants to bolt. He’s nervous, he’s unsure if boys even belong. But a welcoming male coach and some new friends show him that not only do boys cheer – they thrive.

Carter discovers his own strengths, learns that not everyone’s good at everything (and that’s okay – that’s what makes a team), and goes on to his first competition. That’s where he sees Chow Time.

And just like those real boys I coached, Carter is left wide-eyed, inspired. Those role models take the time to speak with him, and it plants a seed:

One day, I want to do the same for another little boy who feels nervous at his first comp.

That’s leadership. That’s legacy.

Dedication

This one is for my own boy:

Baby boy, I will always be your number one cheerleader. No matter what you do or where you go, I will always be your biggest fan. Mum, mummy, mama, bruv, bruv, bro.

Even if he doesn’t cheer, he’ll always know I’m in his corner.

Where to Find It

Jumping Into Cheer is available in paperback and hardback from all the usual places, or as part of the exclusive Little Cheer Library box set over on slategrey-hamster-496221.hostingersite.com.

And don’t forget – your child can unlock the Secret Book Club with free activities, spot the difference games, and colouring sheets inside the book.

This story isn’t just about cheerleading. It’s about belonging, courage, and finding role models who inspire us to do better.

Thanks for sticking with me and I’ll see you in the next chapter!

Allison xx