Takedown

Reach for this book when your child is facing the friction of gender stereotypes or feels like an outsider in a high-pressure environment. It is an ideal choice for the middle-grade reader who needs to see that standing up for yourself and standing up for a teammate are two sides of the same coin. The story follows Mikayla and Lev, two wrestlers who must navigate the complex social dynamics of a male-dominated sport. Beyond the wrestling mat, the book explores the nuances of friendship and the courage required to challenge the status quo. It is perfectly pitched for ages 8 to 12, offering a realistic look at how children develop a moral compass when faced with unfair rules and peer pressure. Parents will appreciate how the dual-perspective narrative models empathy and resilience, making it a powerful tool for normalizing feelings of being 'different' or 'not enough.'