Families who loved Knockout by K.A. Holt often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child feels limited by a label, a medical history, or the well-intentioned overprotectiveness of family. It speaks directly to the child who is ready to prove they are capable of more than people realize. In this sequel to House Arrest, Levi is a middle schooler who survived a life-threatening respiratory condition as a baby. While he is healthy now, his mother and brother still see him as fragile. Written in fast-paced verse, the story follows Levi as he discovers boxing, a sport that gives him a sense of strength and autonomy for the first time. It explores the complex dynamics of a post-divorce family where parents have different ideas about safety and risk. This is a powerful choice for ages 9 to 12 to discuss setting boundaries, finding one's identity, and the difference between being 'taken care of' and being 'cared for.'