The Knockout
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5.0 • 2 Ratings
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- $9.99
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- $9.99
Publisher Description
A rising star in Muay Thai figures out what (and who) is worth fighting for in this #ownvoices YA debut full of heart.
If seventeen-year-old Kareena Thakkar is going to alienate herself from the entire Indian community, she might as well do it gloriously. She’s landed the chance of a lifetime, an invitation to the US Muay Thai Open, which could lead to a spot on the first-ever Olympic team. If only her sport weren’t seen as something too rough for girls, something she’s afraid to share with anyone outside of her family. Despite pleasing her parents, excelling at school, and making plans to get her family out of debt, Kareena’s never felt quite Indian enough, and her training is only making it worse.
Which is inconvenient, since she’s starting to fall for Amit Patel, who just might be the world’s most perfect Indian. Admitting her feelings for Amit will cost Kareena more than just her pride—she’ll have to face his parents’ disapproval, battle her own insecurities, and remain focused for the big fight. Kareena’s bid for the Olympics could very well make history—if she has the courage to go for it.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
For the past nine years, Indian American 17-year-old Kareena Thakkar has practiced Muay Thai, her parents supporting her right to participate in a "violent" sport traditionally "left for boys." Muay Thai allows Kareena a distraction from day-to-day concerns in Texas: her father's renal disease, the family's mounting bills, and the recent implosion of close friendships that has left her feeling adrift. When Kareena's coach announces that she qualifies for a national-level competition, a path to international recognition abruptly opens up; success would enable her to trial for the world championships, with the possibility of participating in the first Olympic team. But after Kareena starts falling for her "perfect Indian boy" classmate Amit Patel, she must confront societal disapproval reserved for girls, and "Indian girls especially," who do not conform to the norm. Patel (The Trouble with Hating You, for adults) showcases the fascinating world of female martial arts in her YA debut, as seen through the eyes of a protagonist from a desi background. Though the rushed romance feels lukewarm, and an overreliance on cultural stereotypes dates the novel, Kareena's brashly confident inner voice produces a fairly engaging read. Ages 14 up.
