The Runner

This fine, demanding book can be read either as an introduction to the Tillermans of the 'Homecoming' trilogy or as a sequel. It tells the story of Samuel 'Bullet' Tellerman. Abigail's son, who is stifled by the emotional straitjacket of his father's house. Bullet, prejudiced and blinded to his own enormous potential, is nevertheless a compelling figure, even in the opening chapters of the book. He runs--not to win but because he knows it is an undeniable part of himself. Emotionally, he is slower to acknowledge his needs and those of others. As a result of his encounter with the black runner, James, his friendship with Patrice and his close relationship with his mother, he realises that his spiritual capacity will be enlarged by accepting emotional responsibility for others. This is truly superb writing, well worth the intellectual effort demanded of the reader and an essential purchase for any GCSE Wider Reading scheme.