TL;DR
A touching and original middle-grade novel in verse, House Arrest by K. A. Holt follows twelve-year-old Timothy, who is on house arrest and navigating a difficult year to help his struggling family.
What is House Arrest about
House Arrest by K. A. Holt is about twelve-year-old Timothy, who finds himself on probation and under house arrest for a year. The novel, written in verse, explores Timothy's journey as he strives to stay out of trouble while dealing with a sick brother, a grieving mother, and a tough probation officer. The story deftly balances humor and seriousness, providing a poignant look at one boy's path to redemption.
House Arrest 5 Key Takeaways
Timothy's probation
Timothy is placed on probation and under house arrest for a year, requiring him to check in with a probation officer and a therapist, and to keep a journal.
Struggling family
Timothy's family is struggling, primarily due to his younger brother's severe health issues. His mother is consumed with caring for his brother, leaving Timothy feeling both responsible and neglected.
Journal entries
Throughout the year, Timothy documents his thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a journal, which serves as an important narrative device in the novel.
Conflict with probation
Staying out of trouble proves difficult for Timothy as he takes drastic measures to help his family, including stealing a wallet to pay for his brother's medical needs.
Emotional journey
Timothy's emotional journey is marked by moments of humor, frustration, and deep love for his family, showcasing his growth and resilience despite the challenges.
House Arrest Videos
Top House Arrest Quotes
- 'I didn't mean to steal it. I didn't mean to get caught.'
- 'I am not a delinquent. I am just a kid trying to help his family.'
Who should read House Arrest?
House Arrest is ideal for middle-grade readers, particularly those aged 11 and up. It will resonate with young readers who have dealt with family illness, personal responsibility, or emotional struggles, offering a touching and heartfelt narrative of compassion and resilience.
House Arrest Best Reviews
- 'This gripping novel in verse evokes a wide variety of emotional responses, as it is serious and funny, thrilling and touching, sweet and snarky.' —School Library Journal
- 'Readers will appreciate Holt’s lessons of compassion and family above all.' —Booklist
- 'Touches of humor lighten the mood, and Holt’s firsthand knowledge of the subject adds depth to this poignant drama without overwhelming it.' —Publishers Weekly
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House Arrest FAQs
Is House Arrest by K. A. Holt a true story?
House Arrest is a realistic fiction novel written in verse. While the events are fictional, they are entirely plausible.
What age is House Arrest appropriate for?
This book is recommended for readers aged 11 and up due to its accessible verse format and rich emotional content.
What is the main idea of House Arrest?
The main idea revolves around twelve-year-old Timothy's efforts to keep his sick brother safe while navigating a yearlong house arrest and probation.