Families who loved Running Loose by Chris Crutcher often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is facing a tough moral choice or grappling with the concepts of fairness, integrity, and loss. Running Loose is the story of Louie Banks, a high school football player whose comfortable senior year is upended when his coach orders him to intentionally injure an opponent. His refusal to comply sets him against his team and town, forcing him to rely on his own moral compass. The story also explores his first serious romance and the devastating impact of sudden, tragic loss. It's a powerful and honest look at grief, resilience, and the difficult process of becoming an adult. Ideal for older teens (14+), it provides a model for standing up for one's principles and navigating profound sadness with the support of family.