Gym Candy by Carl Deuker has been praised for its realistic portrayal of high school athletes and the pressures they face. Readers appreciate the book’s engaging plot and well-developed characters. Criticisms include a predictable storyline and heavy-handed moral lessons. Overall, it’s considered a compelling read for young adults interested in sports and ethical dilemmas.

Readers who enjoy Gym Candy by Carl Deuker are typically young adults interested in sports, particularly football, and the challenges faced by teen athletes. Fans of books like Friday Night Lights and The Catcher in the Rye will appreciate the gritty, realistic portrayal of high school pressures and personal growth.

In Gym Candy by Carl Deuker, Mick Johnson, motivated by his father's NFL legacy, strives to excel in football but faces challenges in achieving recognition from his high school coach. Under pressure, Mick turns to steroids for performance enhancement, resulting in severe physical and emotional side effects that jeopardize his relationships and career aspirations. The novel explores themes of ambition, pressure, and the consequences of drug use. The book includes themes of drug use, depression, and suicide.

Challenging / Dark / Gritty / Suspenseful / Emotional

- Carl Deuker is renowned for his expertise in blending sports and young adult fiction, with Gym Candy being one of his most acclaimed works that explores the intense pressures faced by teen athletes.
- Gym Candy was published in 2007 and has been recognized for its authentic depiction of the struggles and temptations in the world of high school football.
- The book's title, Gym Candy, alludes to the slang term used for steroids, highlighting the central theme of performance-enhancing drugs in sports.

**Mick Johnson**  
Mick Johnson is a high school running back who begins playing football with his father at a young age. His journey is marked by a desire to succeed on the field, facing both the opportunities and pressures that come with competitive sports.

**Mike Johnson**  
Mike Johnson is Mick's father and a former professional football player who did not achieve lasting success. He is committed to helping Mick develop his football skills but can put immense pressure on him to succeed.

**Mick’s Mother**  
Mick's mother is supportive yet wary of the potential dangers associated with football. She provides emotional support and guidance to Mick through difficult times.

**Coach Carlson**  
Coach Carlson, initially the school custodian, steps up as the new football coach and quickly gains the respect of the players. He is known for his strong football knowledge and fair, disciplined approach to coaching.

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