Running Full Tilt

Praised by Jack Gantos, author of Dead End in Norvelt, as "a quick read with a kick at the finish," this debut novel sensitively and memorably captures a teen runner's relationship with his autistic older brother.

Like most siblings, Leo and Caleb have a complicated relationship. But Caleb's violent outbursts literally send Leo running. When the family is forced to relocate due to Caleb's uncontrollable behavior, Leo tries to settle into a new school, joining the cross-country team and discovering his talent for racing and endurance for distance. Things even begin to look up for Leo when he befriends Curtis, a potential state champion who teaches Leo strategy and introduces him to would-be girlfriend, Mary. But Leo's stability is short-lived as Caleb escalates his attacks on his brother, resentful of his sport successes and new friendships.

Leo can't keep running away from his problems. But, with a little help from Curtis and Mary, he can appreciate his worth as a brother and his own capacity for growth, both on and off the field.

Praise from Jack Gantos, author of Dead End in Norvelt, Hole in My Life and The Trouble With Me: "Currinder's novel, Running Full Tilt, is a fast-paced convincing drama of a young runner whose legs circle him back to the many conflicts he is trying to escape--but he can't outrun himself. A quick read with a kick at the finish."

Praise from Paul Volponi, author of The Final Four, Black and White, and Rikers High:
"We feel the inner strength it takes to compete on every page of this splendid narrative, until, as readers, we are running as well--engrossed, and loving every step of the journey."

Mike Currinder ran cross-country and track in high school, and earned a college athletic scholarship. Running Full Tilt novel is a hybrid of his collective experiences as a competitive runner and as an adolescent with an autistic sibling. He is currently a teacher and track and cross-country coach at The American School in Japan. Running Full Tilt is his debut novel.