Runner: A Suspenseful Young Adult Novel of Privilege, Poverty, and the High Price of Opportunity

Runner was written in a thought-provoking way that not only had Chance battling with his own emotions, but me with my own as well. Carl Deuker presented many instances in which I had to grapple with taking the easy way out or strive to continue with the bare minimum. This book confronted and covered many topics such as drugs, terrorism, and trafficking. I suggest this book for teens twelve and up as it does take into consideration some more mature worldly topics.I think one reason that I enjoyed this book so much, was that I could relate. I can't say that I'm at rock bottom living in a household where the bills aren't being paid and everyday expenses aren't being met, but there were some aspects of Runner that I could really connect to. For example, as the title of the book depicts, Chance runs. Every day he runs, and that is what got him started in this business in the first place. I love to run as well. I was able to relate to how Chance felt as he went on his daily runs and let the day's troubles just seep from his mind. Running was calming for him, as it is for me too. It would have been nice to see Chance's running scenes go into more detail, but maybe that's just the inner runner inside me speaking.I also enjoyed how Runner presented a very real and plausible situation. This book focused on topics like terrorism, drugs, and trafficking. Not only did this book make me think about these topics, but it also shed some light on them. What happened to Chance could be what is happening to a teen somewhere right now. They have nowhere else to go, but suddenly this opportunity comes out of nowhere to essentially make everything "better." Kids are sucked into this kind of world all the time, and it's something that people should be aware of. Runner definitely spread the message.It was interesting to see how the story initially took place in a small town on the coast of Washington, to see it grow in size to have an affect on the whole world. That was also something that prompted Chance to grow as he understood what a large scale this was really on. This had started out as a job to earn some money, and progressed to an event who's outcome could affect millions of lives. Chance really went through some self-discovery as he battled with this, and his own problems at family and school.This is a very fast-paced read, and at times that was a good thing, but in the long run (haha, no pun intended), I wish Runner had been a bit longer. It would have been nice to have gotten to know Chance and the other characters on a deeper level. Instead of relating to the characters, I felt like I was just watching from afar. I'm, glad this was a stand-alone novel though, because I can't really imagine the story being drawn out to the length of two books. I can't wait to read more of Carl Deuker's sport novels that also confront the issues of teens!Overall, Runner was an action-packed read with real issues that any teen can relate to. Join Chance, as he wrestles with his emotions and thoughts on what choice to make in, Runner!-This is T.B. with Another Book Back on the Shelf...Until Next Time, Keep Reading!

It held my interest...but. The plot line was good....however I had problems with the "envelope". At one point I actually had to check previous pages to verify that the author actually wanted us to believe the main character was a teenager. Maybe I was reading a book for young adults and didn't know it. But I gave it 3 stars because it was well written

I haven't read this, it was purchased for my son for required school reading. I have been amazed! My son usually hates reading and I have to assign him a certain amount to finish each day- this time he reads past the required amount and is telling his friends about the story! I consider that a success! Wonderful!

My son is in the 11th grade. He had 3 books that were required reading and this was one of them. I feel the choices were good ones, and here I could get them all in one place, as I did look at a couple of bookstores while I was brousing and they didn't have them. I hope to make this easier in the future, getting my son a kindle for Christmas (I hope.)

"Runner" by Carl Deuker is a gripping novel that tells the story of a high school student Shane Hunter. The book describes how Chance struggles to find his place in the world after his family situation and how he escapes by running.Deuker's writing is powerful and evocative. He perfectly captures the raw emotions that Chance feels as he grapples with the pressure of growing up and leaving and the search for his identity.The novel is in Seattle, and Deuker's descriptions of the city and its streets add richness to the story, making the reader feel like they're right there with Chance, running alongside him as he trains.Shane's relationship with his coach, Mr. Bell, is one of the book's highlights. Bell is a complex and multi-dimensional character, and his interactions with Shane are touching and thought-provoking.Deuker does a great job of showing how money and the enticement of a better life lead to people doing desperate things and can be used as an escape from reality. Chance finds that the more he runs and makes money, the more he can push aside his fears and doubts and focus on the present moment, knowing that he can keep his home.The narrative is fast-paced, and the author skilfully builds the tension, ensuring the reader is on the edge of their seat.Chance's teammates, particularly his closest friend, Melissa, also play an essential role in the story. Their interactions are realistic and heartfelt and add depth to the story.Deuker also explores themes of family and friendship, loss and loss, grief, and the importance of perseverance. The story shows how Chance learns to overcome the pain of his past. He must first confront it and then learn to move forward.The story's climax is intense and simultaneously leaves the reader feeling satisfied and heartbroken.Overall, "Runner" is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that will resonate with readers of all ages. Deuker's writing is masterful, and the story is emotionally charged and highly relatable. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt lost and alone and has had to do questionable things to get by. The author deals with complex emotions and issues with sensitivity and nuance, and the novel is an enjoyable and enlightening read. The book is well-written, and the characters are well-developed. It tells an uplifting story about the power of determination and perseverance. It's a novel that will stay with you long after you've finished reading it and one that I highly recommend.

This book was supposed to be about a different story when I purchased it but still it ended up being a great read simple but something to entice the mind (age 22)

My 11 year old is an "old soul". He enjoyed this story, as he does all of Carl Deuker's novels. They are perfect for pre-adolescents / teens!If the story is babyish, my son won't read it. The Runner and Payback Time are not babyish at all, yet they stay within the boundries of appropriateness that I want for my son.

My son lost his library book for a essay to write about it.so I needed to find a new hard copy to replace the library book when he was done with it. I paid extra for faster shipping and received it in perfect condition. so I thank you and the library thanks you :)