The first book in The Compass Club series.
Marcus has been the captain of his crew since third grade - nobody voted on it, it just happened.
So when his coach announces a real tryout for team captain, Marcus is sure it's already his.
Until it isn't.
When a missed shot and a freeze-up in front of the whole gym cost him everything he was sure of, Marcus has to face the one thing he's always been too proud to admit: sometimes being strong means asking for help.
Have You Ever Pretended You Were Okay? is Marcus's answer to the question at the heart of every Compass Club book - a series where four best friends each find their own way to the same honest question, one story at a time.
Perfect for readers ages 9-12 who love sports stories, real friendships, and characters who feel like someone they actually know.