Review of “Runner,” by Carl Deuker
“Runner,” by Carl Deuker is a young adult novel about a boy who becomes involved in an illegal smuggling ring.
Chance Taylor and his father live on a battered sailboat docked at the local marina. Because his father’s alcoholism keeps him jobless Chance must worry about money in ways that most kids don’t. Chance is ashamed of his poverty and constantly worried about where the grocery money and dock fees will come from. Then a mysterious person offers Chance a job.
“You‘re in trouble, and I can get you out of that trouble. I‘m offering you a job, kid. Very good pay, very short hours. When somebody offers you easy money, you should at least hear him out.”
All Chance has to do is pick up small packages and deliver them to another place where the man can pick them up. Chance knows that he’s probably doing something illegal, helping to smuggle drugs or something else illegal, but he is desperate for the money.
Then Chance’s job takes a deadly turn and it seems that he may not be able to get out of it alive…
“Runner,” by Carl Deuker explores themes of poverty, smuggling, and terrorism. It offers an in-depth look into the life of a young boy who gets involved in illegal activity because he needs money.
I think that Carl Deuker did a good job writing “Runner” because the characters are very well thought out. Their realistic emotions, fears, and strengths add much to the plot. I definitely recommend “Runner” by Carl Deuker as a thrilling read with an important lesson behind it.
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