Eddie MacIntyre–Mac to a handful of friends–is Pennsylvania's most promising wrestler. His future is bright with scholarship offers and the dream of helping his struggling mom. But then comes a fateful match at the state championship, when his famous rage consumes him and he assaults a referee. In an instant, Mac loses all he and his mom have worked to build since his abusive father was locked up years ago. Facing arrest, Mac runs away to another town, where he is taken in by a shady promoter who has followed his career. He recruits Mac into Brawlers, an illegal underground fighting ring run by a gangland boss. This is a bloodsport that has no rules . . . but offers plenty of reward.
This collection includes exciting books focused on athlete experiences, competition, and the broader culture of sports and recreation. Featuring a mix of fiction and nonfiction, selections explore sports through personal stories, real-world perspectives, and a range of activities that reflect the different ways teens engage with sports. Some selections are written for adults but are thoughtfully chosen for their relevance and appeal to teen readers.