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Book details

Knights of the Hill Country

Knights of the Hill Country

Published in
2006
3.85
on Goodreads (1,116)

Description

In a small Oklahoma town, one star linebacker must decide what kind of man he wants to be--both on and off the field.Welcome to Kennisaw--where Friday night high school football ranks right up there with God and country, and sometimes even comes in first. This year, the Kennisaw Knights are going for their fifth straight undefeated season, and if they succeed, they'll be more than the best high school team in the eastern Oklahoma hill country--they'll be legends.But the Knights' legacy is a heavy weight to carry for Hampton, linebacker and star of the team. On the field, he's so in control you'd think he was able to stop time. But his life off the field is a different story. His father walked out on him and his mom years ago, and now his mom has a new boyfriend every week. He's drawn to a smart, quirky girl at school--the type a star athlete just isn't supposed to associate with. And meanwhile, his best friend and teammate Blaine--the true friend who first introduced Hampton to football back when he had nothing else--is becoming uncomfortably competitive, and he's demanding Hampton's loyalty even as Hampton thinks he's going too far.This unforgettable novel is the story of a boy whose choices will decide the kind of man he becomes, and raises powerful questions about sportsmanship, loyalty, and the deceptiveness of legends.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
240 pages

Why to read

  • Engaging Coming-of-Age Story: 'Knights of the Hill Country' offers a compelling narrative that follows the protagonist, Hampton Green, as he navigates the challenges of high school, football, and personal growth. It's a story that resonates with anyone who has experienced the trials and tribulations of growing up.
  • Exploration of Important Themes: The book delves into themes such as friendship, loyalty, and the pressure to succeed. It also touches on issues of small-town life and the weight of expectations, making it a thought-provoking read that encourages reflection on one's own values and choices.
  • Well-Developed Characters: Tim Tharp has a talent for creating relatable and multifaceted characters. Readers will find themselves invested in the lives of Hampton and his friends, cheering for their victories and empathizing with their struggles.
  • Sports and Team Dynamics: For fans of sports fiction, 'Knights of the Hill Country' provides an authentic look at high school football and the camaraderie and tension that come with being part of a team. The book captures the excitement of the game while also examining the impact of sports on the lives of young athletes.