Run, Rebel

Once I had started this book, there was no stopping; I was completely swept up by its emotional force.

There’s no stopping Amber either, once she sets herself on the path of rebellion against her father and her community. To the outside world, she is a pretty normal teenager. At home, she wrestles with a toxic mixture of poverty, alcoholism, domestic violence and the expectation that, as a girl, she must obediently prove she is not a burden. The only outlet for her emotions is running, which turns down the rage and provides respite from the familiar urge to escape. When her father’s rules threaten to destroy an amazing chance for her to run competitively, Amber musters the courage to rebel. The price of freedom will be high, but she is determined not to cave in like her sister and mother.

Written in verse, economical language strikes to the heart of complex issues and conflicting emotions. Through the poetry of Amber’s internal narrative, we get to know a character who inspires our sympathy and empathy. She resents her father’s control, but she also loves him. She is frustrated by her mother’s compliance, but she also worries for her. She longs to share her secret but also wants to protect it. The closer she comes to total rebellion, the more desperately Amber hopes she won’t have to go through with it. This compelling and moving story gives a voice to those marginalised by poverty, fear and demanding social expectations. It would be great for provoking discussions about cultural norms, individuality and ambition.