Final answer:
In 'Chameleon' by David Lopera, the author suggests that new sneakers would improve his coolness among peers, reflecting adolescents' desire to conform to social norms for happiness and acceptance.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the author David Lopera, in his book Chameleon, new sneakers would affect his reputation at school by helping the author appear cool to his peers. This aligns with how young adolescents seek to fit in with social norms and group expectations. The desire for acceptance through wearing trendy or name brand clothing, such as the sought-after sneakers, can provide a sense of happiness or belonging among peers. The importance of these sneakers is not just their functionality, but also the social capital they bring in the school environment, where young teens are particularly aware of who conforms and who does not.