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The Running Dream

Wendelin Van Draanen
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86 pages • 2 hours read

Wendelin Van Draanen

The Running Dream

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2011

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  • Before You Read Sparkles iconBeta

  • Summary

  • Character Analysis

  • Themes

  • Symbols & Motifs

  • Important Quotes

  • Essay Topics

    • Before You Read

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    Super Short Summary

    The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen follows sixteen-year-old Jessica Carlisle, a promising track athlete who loses her leg in a bus accident, and her journey to adapt to life with a prosthetic limb, regain her passion for running, and embrace new and meaningful friendships, especially with her classmate Rosa, who has cerebral palsy. The book discusses trauma, loss, and disability.

    Reviews & Readership

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    Review Roundup

    Wendelin Van Draanen’s The Running Dream garners praise for its inspiring and realistic narrative of a teen amputee's journey to reclaim her life through running. Reviewers commend the well-developed characters and uplifting message. Some critique the predictable plot and occasional lack of depth, but overall, it is celebrated for its motivational and heartfelt storytelling.

    Who should read this

    Who Should Read The Running Dream?

    A reader who would enjoy The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen is likely someone who appreciates heartfelt stories of resilience and personal triumph. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper will find the book's themes of overcoming physical challenges and embracing diversity especially compelling.

    Recommended

    Reading Age

    12-18years

    Lexile Level

    HL650L

    Book Details

    Themes

    Emotions/Behavior: Shame & Pride

    Relationships: Friendship

    Relationships: Teams

    Genre

    Realistic Fiction

    Topics

    Disability