BY DAWN WOODS

 

A story about a runner, but story with a meaning about doing something you enjoy rather than for glory. Megan is a gifted runner, just like her Mother in her time. Unlike her Mother, Megan is good enough to make it to the top. But tensions between her Mother pushing Megan to be the best and Megan's Dad's laidback attitude of doing something because you enjoy it, makes life difficult for the daughter stuck in the middle.

Like all 15 year olds, Megan goes to a party and gets drunk, and suffers the morning after the night before. Yes, that's not clever, but for Megan's Mum an athlete should never ever commit such a crime.

The hard work for training is depicted in this novel, so is the human side for all athletes who, at one time or another, have wondered if it is all worthwhile. But the message comes through loud and clear: it is.

Although Megan is 15, this book is aimed at young people from 10 years to mid teens. There is nothing unsuitable for preteens, in spite of the party incident. Indeed, it would inspire young athletes and show them they can lead a 'normal' life and have fun as well as train hard. An easy read, I read it in a matter of a couple of hours, curious to see if the jokey Dad won over the stricter Mum, but pleased with the ending. Hopefully it will inspire all runners, sprinters or marathon, so we triumph in Rio in 2016.

 

This book was published by Carlton and is available to buy for £5.99. It can also be borrowed from The Hive as well as other Worcestershire libraries. Click here to check availability and check it out.