50 pages 1 hour read

Chris Crutcher

Running Loose

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1983

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Running Loose by Chris Crutcher follows high school senior Louie Banks navigating adolescence in a small town, his life changing dramatically after he witnesses and protests a racist incident during a football game, resulting in his expulsion from the team. This sets off a series of events that force him to confront personal and community issues, ultimately leading to significant personal growth and self-discovery.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Running Loose by Chris Crutcher receives praise for its authentic portrayal of high school life and the emotional journey of its protagonist. Reviewers appreciate the novel's realistic dialogue and engaging characters. However, some criticize the pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, it's noted for its ability to handle serious themes with sensitivity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Running Loose?

A reader who would enjoy Running Loose by Chris Crutcher is likely a young adult interested in coming-of-age stories with themes of sports, ethical dilemmas, and personal growth. Fans of novels like The Contender by Robert Lipsyte or Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson would find this book engaging for its realistic characters and moral challenges.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Lexile Level

870L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

Sports

Themes

Identity: Race

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Life/Time: Mortality & Death