Takedown
Written by Laura Shovan
Discover what happens when one girl wants to break barriers in a sport dominated by boys in this exciting and thoughtful novel by the author of The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary.
Mikayla is a wrestler; when you grow up in a house full of brothers who wrestle, it’s inevitable. It’s also a way to stay connected to her oldest brother, Evan, who moved in with their dad. Some people are objecting to having to having a girl on the team. But that’s not stopping Mikayla. She’s determined to work harder than ever, and win.
Lev is determined to make it to the state championships this year. He’s used to training with his two buddies as the Fearsome Threesome; they know how to work together. At the beginning of sixth grade, he’s paired with a new partner–a girl. This better not get in the way of his goal.
Mikayla and Lev work hard together and become friends. But when they face each other, only one of them can win.
Praise for Takedown
“Mikayla and Lev are winners.” – Kirkus Reviews
“This is a solid choice for middle grade collections looking to diversify their sports fiction selections.” – School Library Journal
“Even for readers unfamiliar with wrestling, Takedown may inspire them to confront difficult situations in their own lives and, if they follow the example of the very real and likable protagonists, will make wise and mature decisions.” – Jewish Book Council
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Grade Level: 4-7
View classroom supplements below!
Extras
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Free Educator Guide
Discussion questions, activities, and additional resources for teaching Takedown in the classroom!
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Laura's Research Sources
To learn more about Laura’s research sources for Takedown, visit this blog post.
Awards for Takedown
2019 Amelia Bloomer/Rise List of Recommended Feminist Literature for Birth through 18
Bank Street Books of the Year List
Junior Library Guild Selection, Gold Standard
PJ Our Way Selection
Wisconsin State Reading Association “Just One More Page!” Recommendation List
Missouri Association of School Librarians Mark Twain Award Nominee
My son's wrestling trophies – his experiences as a member of a travel wrestling team were the inspiration for this book!
A real-life wrestling demonstration at a launch event for Takedown!
Bookstore Launch event for Takedown with some of my writer friends!
Other Books by Laura
