This is the second book that I picked up during my adventures at the library a few weeks ago. It is another YA story, one that really enthralled me right into the heart of a teen’s angst and life.
This story is about a group of boys, led by Nick. They are terrorizing the hides in grade eight. Lionel just wants to get by without attracting attention. He wants to stay in the shadows, silent and invisible. But that comes at a terrible cost: his self-respect and happiness is one line.
Then he discovers something else. He loves to run. To his surprise, he’s invited to join a running group. And more surprising, he begins to make friends, especially with Kiana, a girl who he admires. She tells him to stand up for himself — but when he does, he steps out of the shadows, and Nick and the boys take notice.
Lionel wants desperately to be happy–to run and to be with Kiana. How can he be happy if it means doing the unthinkable: leaving the shadows forever?
This is a story for all teens and young adults. It is also for adults who have teens or who are trying to understand teens better.
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by: Irene S. Roth
Irene Roth's Canadian Book Review Blog 