About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is navigating a significant life transition, such as moving to a new school or coping with the death of a parent. Kevin Walker is a high school student trying to outrun the pain of his mother's death by remaining invisible at his new school, only to find that his natural talent for track pulls him into the spotlight against his will. The story explores the delicate process of rebuilding trust and the realization that while isolation feels safe, true healing often happens within a community. It is a poignant, accessible realistic fiction choice for readers aged 12 to 17 who are learning how to balance their private grief with the demands of social life and the pressure of peer expectations.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
1. DISTRESS: The book centers on the recent death of Kevin's mother, which is the catalyst for his move and his emotional withdrawal. While her death occurs off-page, Kevin's profound grief and desire to avoid the 'pity' of others are depicted with emotional weight. 2. CONVERSATION: Parents should be prepared to discuss the ethics of loyalty. A specific plot point involves a friend asking Kevin to lie or keep a secret that compromises his integrity. Be ready to talk about the difference between being a 'good friend' and being an accomplice to bad behavior.
Ideal Reader
A middle or high schooler who feels like an outsider or is struggling with a recent family loss. It is particularly effective for reluctant readers due to its fast pace and relatable sports themes.
Parent Prep
The book is part of the Bluford High series style (though published by Fitzgerald), meaning it is high-interest and low-complexity. It can be read cold. A parent might hear their child express that it is easier to be alone than to risk being hurt by friends, or notice their child intentionally hiding their talents to avoid attention.
Age Experience
Younger readers (12-13) will focus on the excitement of the track meets and the 'new kid' dynamics. Older readers (15-17) will better appreciate Kevin's internal struggle with grief and the nuance of his social dilemmas.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many sports books that focus solely on the 'big game,' this story uses track as a vehicle for emotional exposure, focusing on the vulnerability that comes with being seen by others.
Read plot summary
Kevin Walker moves to Tubman High following the death of his mother, determined to keep his head down and his history private. He adopts a loner persona to avoid emotional vulnerability, but his exceptional running speed catches the eye of the track coach. As Kevin becomes a standout athlete, he is forced into social circles where his loyalty is tested. He must decide whether to continue hiding or to trust new friends who are facing their own struggles with peer pressure and integrity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Kevin calls himself a 'loner' and tries to stay invisible. Why does he think being alone is safer than having friends?
2
Coach Hunt pushes Kevin to join the track team. Is it right for a teacher or coach to push a student who is grieving into the spotlight?
3
When Kevin starts getting attention for his running, how do his classmates' perceptions of him change? Is their friendship genuine?
4
Kevin has a secret about his past. Do you think sharing a secret makes a friendship stronger, or does it just make you more vulnerable?
5
At the end of the book, how has Kevin's view of 'belonging' changed from when he first arrived at Tubman High?
