SuitabookRunning wide open
Lisa Nowak
- Reading
- Check in before and after the racing-injury section, especially if medical trauma or family uncertainty may be difficult. Afterwards, discuss whether Cody’s change comes from consequences, connection, personal choice, or all three.
- Themes
- Managing anger and change: Cody’s temper and rule-breaking create trouble, while he begins to settle and consider different responses. The story presents anger as a serious obstacle but leaves the full balance between personal choice and circumstances unclear.
- Mentorship and belonging: Cody’s relationship with Race develops from distrust into a bond involving friendship, mentoring and belonging. The book presents this favourably.
- Risk and racing culture: The book addresses risk and racing culture; the detail of how it is developed remains unclear. Racing is shown as vivid and rewarding for Cody while also being connected to significant physical harm.
- Worth knowing
- Some readers may want preparation for anger, graffiti, drinking, theft, a serious racing crash and a traumatic brain injury, alongside uncertainty about Cody’s living arrangements and family future.