If you enjoy reading books by Mike Lupica then you might also like the following authors:
Dan Gutman is a popular author known for writing stories that are fun and easy to get into, especially for young readers who are into sports and humor. One of his books, “Honus & Me,” tells the story of a boy named Joe Stoshack who finds a rare Honus Wagner baseball card.
This card does more than just hold value—it sends Joe back in time to meet the legendary player himself. The book mixes baseball history with a little bit of time travel, making it perfect for sports fans who like a twist in their stories.
Tim Green writes sports-focused stories that often center on young athletes navigating challenges on and off the field. In his book “Football Genius,” a boy named Troy has an extraordinary ability to predict football plays before they happen.
He uses this skill to help his favorite NFL team, but it throws him into a world of high-stakes games and adult conflicts. The book combines football action with a story about courage and standing up for what’s right.
Fans of Mike Lupica’s work would enjoy how Green brings sports to life while focusing strongly on character and personal growth.
Matt Christopher wrote stories about sports that are easy to get into and full of action. One of his books, “The Kid Who Only Hit Homers,” tells the story of Sylvester, a boy who struggles with baseball until a mysterious man helps him turn things around.
Suddenly, he starts hitting home runs every time he steps up to the plate, but the changes come with unexpected challenges. Fans of Mike Lupica will appreciate Christopher’s focus on young athletes and their journeys on and off the field.
John Feinstein is a sportswriter and author who creates stories that bring sports to life. In his book “Last Shot: A Final Four Mystery,” he tells the story of two teenagers, Stevie and Susan Carol, who win a trip to cover the NCAA Final Four as student reporters.
While they’re there, they stumble onto a plot to fix the championship game. The mix of basketball action and the excitement of chasing a big story makes this book a fast-paced read.
Feinstein’s love for sports shines through, along with the thrill of uncovering secrets behind the scenes.
Phil Bildner writes stories about sports and teamwork that often have a lot of heart. In his book “A Whole New Ballgame,” readers meet Rip and Red, two best friends adjusting to a new teacher with an unconventional style.
Rip is into basketball, and Red, who is on the autism spectrum, learns to navigate challenges alongside him. The story dives into their friendship and how they work through changes together.
If you enjoy Mike Lupica’s way of connecting sports with life lessons, Phil Bildner might be a great author to check out.
Kwame Alexander is a writer who knows how to create stories that pull you in with heart and energy. His book “The Crossover” is written in verse and follows two twin brothers, Josh and JB, who share a love for basketball but face challenges that test their bond.
Through fast-paced poetry, you experience Josh’s passion for the game, his struggles with family changes, and his journey of growing up. It’s a book that blends sports, family, and emotion beautifully, giving you moments that stick with you.
Jason Reynolds writes stories that feel real and hit home for young readers. If you enjoy Mike Lupica’s focus on sports and young athletes, you might want to check out Reynolds’ “Ghost.”
It’s about a boy named Castle Cranshaw, nicknamed Ghost, who has a natural talent for running. He joins a track team and faces challenges both on and off the track.
The story digs into his past, like dealing with a tough home life, and shows how sports can offer a sense of belonging and a path forward. It’s a quick read that feels honest and heartfelt.
Carl Deuker is an author known for blending sports and storytelling in a way that keeps readers hooked. In his book “Gym Candy,” he explores the world of high school football through Mick Johnson, a talented running back with big dreams.
Mick is determined to succeed, especially with the shadow of his father’s career hanging over him. As he fights to stay on top in a competitive world, he’s tempted to take shortcuts, leading to some intense moments.
It’s a story about pressure, choices, and the cost of chasing perfection. If you enjoy sports-focused stories with real-life struggles, this might grab your attention.
Chris Crutcher writes stories that focus on sports and young people navigating tough situations. His books are heartfelt and often center on athletes facing personal challenges.
In “Staying Fat for Sarah Byrnes,” the story follows Eric, a swimmer, who remains loyal to his best friend, Sarah, a girl scarred emotionally and physically. Their bond is tested when they confront painful truths about their lives.
Crutcher’s writing captures the struggles of teens while weaving in sports as a backdrop to their growth. Fans of Mike Lupica might enjoy the emotional depth Crutcher brings to his characters.
Rich Wallace writes stories filled with sports, teamwork, and personal growth, making his books a natural fit for readers who enjoy Mike Lupica. One of his standout titles is “Wrestling Sturbridge.”
The story centers on Ben, a high school senior navigating his role on a wrestling team where he’s always in the shadow of a more talented teammate. It’s not just about matches on the mat—it dives into Ben’s struggles with identity, ambition, and the need to prove himself.
The book feels real, with vivid details about the pressures and triumphs of high school sports.
Stuart Gibbs is an author who writes fun and engaging books filled with mystery and adventure. His book “Spy School” is about a kid named Ben Ripley, who gets recruited by the CIA to attend a secret academy for young spies.
Ben isn’t exactly spy material, but he’s thrown into situations involving undercover missions, double agents, and plenty of surprises. The humor and action keep the story moving, and there’s a sense of excitement in every chapter.
Readers who enjoy Mike Lupica’s fast-paced storytelling might find Gibbs’ style entertaining.
Gordon Korman is a writer who creates fun and fast-paced stories that grab your attention right away. One of his books, “Restart,” is about a boy named Chase who loses his memory after a fall. When he goes back to school, he starts to realize that he used to be a bully.
As he meets his classmates again, Chase has to figure out who he really wants to be. The story is full of moments where you wonder if Chase will get a fresh start or fall back into old habits.
If you enjoy sports or heartfelt stories similar to Mike Lupica’s books, you might enjoy the themes of teamwork and growth in Korman’s writing.
Lisa Fipps writes stories that feel real and heartfelt, much like Mike Lupica’s work. Her book, “Starfish,” tells the story of Ellie, a girl who faces bullying because of her size. She creates a “safe zone” in her swimming pool, where she feels weightless and free.
The book dives into her struggles at school and at home and shows her journey to stand up for herself and set boundaries. It’s a story about finding your voice and learning to accept yourself despite others’ judgments.
Ben Mikaelsen is a talented author known for crafting emotional and character-driven stories that often explore themes of personal growth and resilience.
One of his most well-known books, “Touching Spirit Bear,” follows Cole Matthews, a troubled teenager who is sent to a remote Alaskan island as part of a rehabilitation program.
After angering a mystical white bear during his stay on the island, Cole is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and reflect on his life choices. The story dives into his transformation, as survival becomes a path to self-discovery and healing.
Fans of Mike Lupica’s heartfelt storytelling might enjoy the depth of this journey.
Josh Berk writes stories that are sharp, funny, and full of heart, often bringing sports and friendship into the mix. In his book “Strike Three, You’re Dead,” he tells the story of Lenny, a baseball-obsessed kid who dreams of becoming a play-by-play announcer.
When a young pitcher dies mysteriously, Lenny decides to investigate with his best friends, uncovering surprising secrets along the way. Berk’s style mixes humor and mystery, making his books enjoyable for readers who like Mike Lupica’s focus on sports and relatable characters.