Book Review: The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen

Running is everything for Jessica. She is a runner, a sprinter, and loves the feel of the wind on her face. Her friends are on the track team, and they discuss running and go to track events together. She just had a personal best in the 400 meters, and set a league record beating rival Vanessa. And on the way home from the track meet, the bus carrying the track team is in an accident.

Jessica's leg has been crushed, and her leg has been amputated below the knee. She now has no hopes of running, and her life feels like it is over.

From hopeless in the hospital, to moody at home, Jessica's life is drastically different. She can barely hobble around on crutches and getting a new leg is still months away. Still, there are moments of hope. Like her best friend Fiona forcing her to go back to school, or the fact that the track team is raising money to buy her a special running leg. Then there is cute-boy Gavin who might just like her and Rosa a student with cerebral palsy who is a math genius and a new friend for Jessica. Each person in Jessica's life seems to be pushing her towards a new beginning.

The best word for The Running Dream is inspiring. Wendelin Van Draanen creates a story that is uplifting and relate-able. Jessica's situation is bad, but she is aware that there are other people who have it worse. Jessica can be moody, mean and judgmental, but she is also sweet, kind and open to new experiences. Just like any other 16 year old facing a challenge, Jessica figures things out, and things aren't always what she expects.

Whether you are a couch potato, or a seasoned runner, The Running Dream will have you reaching for a pair of sneakers and heading out to the sidewalks or the track. Fans of books by Chris Crutcher, Sarah Dessen or other sporting type books will enjoy this one.

I'll see you @ the library!

Katie (Now reading Trapped by Michael Northrop- I couldn't bear the thought of starting a book about being snowed in last weekend!?