We're kind of embarrassed to admit that this is our first Van Draanen novel, but we can happily report that it won't be our last. Winner of the 2012 Schneider Family Book Award, The Running Dream is perfect for all audiences. We think it would make a great family read with lots of opportunities for in-depth discussions.
While returning home from a track meet, 16 year-old Jessica along with her teammates, is involved in an accident that leaves one girl dead and Jessica with a crushed leg. Waking up in the hospital, she learns that the damage to her calf was so severe, that they had to amputate it below the knee. At first she is unable to acknowledge that she is lucky to have survived the crash and instead, continues to focus on the loss of her dream: becoming a world-class sprinter. With the help of a loyal friend, a supportive coach, team, and loving family, Jessica slowly re-enters her teen life. But it isn't until she seeks the help of Rosa, a fellow classmate with cerebral palsy, that she begins to realize that there is still a "finish line" in her future.
This is the second time we have included a Schneider Family Award Winner on our summer reading list (Five Flavors of Dumb 2011) and we plan on continuing the trend next summer too. We love the fact that the overall theme is: recognizing someone for their strengths, not their disability. It's a quick read that's upbeat and not overly saccharine.
Next up: Between Shades of Gray- June 29th
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