The characters, both adults and children, are well-developed and likable. Although the jargon of wrestling is not always clearly defined, readers will find the action exciting. Their diversity is treated matter-of-factly, accepted as part of what makes them unique. Mikayla is a white Christian whose best friend is a biracial brown girl who loves to work with theatrical makeup. Lev is Jewish, and his best friend is a Chinese boy who loves music. Lev is haunted by his failure last year to make the state tournament and is determined to get there this year. There she meets Lev, who reluctantly becomes her training partner. The prejudice of her brothers’ coach forces her on to a different team, the Gladiators. If she joins a team, maybe he will value her more. She also inserts subtle references to Jewish celebrations including Shabbat and Hanukkah (Lev is Jewish), and familiarizes readers with the rules and excitement of wrestling.Įven 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.Show More Mikayla believes that her divorced father spends all his time on her big brothers’ wrestling practices and tournaments. Through Mickey, Lev, and their teammates, Shovan helps young readers think through these concerns too - but in an understated way. Both deal with typical middle school problems of self-identity: They question where they fit in with their friends, at school, within their families, and on their wrestling team. Laura Shovan weaves together the parallel and intersecting stories of Lev and Mickey, with each character narrating alternating chapters. Ultimately, though, Lev and Mickey forge a friendship by confronting sexism in the sport, particularly in the person of their coach who isn’t in favor of female wrestlers.

Lev is not pleased when Mickey, a dedicated wrestler from a family of champions, is assigned to be his new partner. This refreshing and well-written novel introduces readers to sixth graders Mikayla (Mickey) and Lev, both of whom participate on a travel wrestling team.

Takedown by laura shovan