National Network for Equitable Library Service

"A fast-paced convincing drama of a young runner whose legs circle him back to the many conflicts he is trying to escape." —Jack Gantos, Newbery Medal-winning author of Dead End in Norvelt. An honest and sensitive debut that memorably captures a teen runner’s relationship with his brother and his brother’s experience of autism. Like many siblings, Leo and Caleb have a complicated relationship. But Caleb's violent outbursts literally send Leo running. When the family is forced to relocate, Leo tries to settle into a new school, joining the cross-country team and discovering his talent for racing and endurance for distance. Things begin to look up for Leo when he befriends Curtis, a potential state champion who teaches Leo strategy and introduces him to a girl named Mary. But Leo's stability is short-lived as Caleb escalates his attacks on his brother, resentful of his sports success and new friendships. Leo can't keep running away from his problems. But, with a little help from Curtis and Mary, he can appreciate his worth as a brother and his own capacity for growth, both on and off the field.