Running

By: A. M. Huff

Narrated by: Matt Braver

For some, high school is anything but a walk in the park. For senior Oliver Sticka, what to do after graduation is the last thing on his mind. Getting through phys-ed is more pressing.

Never really fitting in with the other guys in his class, Ollie has a lot on his mind. Running, Ollie says, gives him the chance to be alone with his thoughts and figure things out... or is he just running away?

Join Ollie on a short run while he finds himself.

©2014 James M. McCracken (P)2017 James M. McCracken

Being Other

In "Running" we meet Oliver, a good kid who seems gentle, thoughtful, and obedient. A kid who picks running as a way to deal with his problems. Sadly, what he runs into is trouble. I can't say more without spoilers but Oliver deals with the usual awkwardness of growing up, struggles with his sexuality, and much worse than bullying. Luckily, he also has people who care and try to rescue or mentor him. "Running" is a wonderful coming of age story that is both shocking, brutal, painful and yet hopeful and relatable. For anyone who has ever felt like they are "other" this is a great read.

Vivid!

This story took me right back to highschool, all the confusion, doubt, and joy.