The Runner

Cynthia Voigt. Simon Pulse, 2005. ISBN: 978-1416903413

Plot Summary: Samuel Tillerman, or Bullet as he is know in his school, lives to be alone and to run cross country. He lives with his father and mother in an isolated area of the community. His brother and sister have already fled the home and Bullet struggles to gain Independence from his strict, close minded father, and to find love from his mother, who is unable to show love. Bullet is a loner who has few friends. The only person he feels close to is Patrice, a man who works on boats with Bullet. When a black teenager joins Bullet's track team, Bullet's racist views surface. While he struggles to become the man he wants to be, he learns something about relationships and what makes people become who they are.

Critical Evaluation: This is a very well written book that tackles some big issues such as racism, emotional abuse, and loneliness. While there are some mature themes, situations, and language in the book, overall it is a good choice for tweens and teens.

Reader's Annotation: There is nobody in the school faster than Bullet. He spends all his time alone and training for cross country. He runs to get away from his parents, his home, and to isolate himself. He can't run forever so will he change or will people change him?

About the Author: Cynthia Voigt is the author of many books for tweens and young adults including the "Tillerman Series", which focuses on the lives of the tillerman family.
Genre: Fiction, coming of age
Curriculum Ties: None
Booktalking Ideas: Focus on relationship between Bullet and his father.
Interest Level: 10-14
Challenge Issues: There is racist behavior and language in the book. For those who are upset by it, they can be directed to research the time period the book takes place.
Selection Process: I read it for my author study.