Running
Running
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2020
Book Brief
Beta336
Novel • Fiction
•
Modern Classic FictionMiami and South Florida, United States, present day during a presidential primary campaign.
•
Social Justice2020
Clarion Books
Hardcover • 2020
YA
13-17 years
Super Short Summary
Fifteen-year-old Cuban American Mariana Ruiz has always supported her father, a U.S. senator, through his political campaigns. But when he runs for president, intense media scrutiny invades her family’s life and privacy. As Mari begins examining his positions more closely, she must reconcile the dad she has always admired with the politician he may actually be.
Emotional
Hopeful
Inspirational
Contemplative
Humorous
Reviews & Readership
1,789 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviewers praise Running as timely, heartfelt political YA with an authentic voice and nuanced representation. They particularly admire Mariana’s natural, believable growth as she confronts privilege, family loyalty, and her emerging convictions. The supporting cast also earns praise, while the book’s messages about activism are considered subtle rather than preachy. Criticism is limited and aimed mainly at character behavior: one reviewer disliked how Mariana’s young brother treats her when she begins speaking independently and challenging their father.
Who Should Read Running?
Readers ages 14–18 who enjoy political young adult fiction, layered family dynamics, and stories about finding the courage to speak up should pick up Running. It will especially appeal to those interested in activism, privacy, media scrutiny, and a teenager questioning a once-idealized parent. Readers seeking nuanced Cuban American and South Florida representation may also connect with it. Expect an authentic teenage voice, a hopeful and emotional tone, and messages about activism that do not feel preachy.
1,789 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mari’s charismatic father, a U.S. senator seeking the Republican presidential nomination while confronting political pressures involving his family and heritage.
Mari’s classmate and an activist who encourages her to develop her own beliefs and speak in her own voice.
The Ruiz family’s housekeeper and Amarys’s girlfriend, Gloria offers Mari dependable support from outside her parents’ political world.
Gloria’s girlfriend and, alongside Gloria, a steady source of support for Mari beyond the family’s consuming political bubble.
336
Novel • Fiction
•
Modern Classic FictionMiami and South Florida, United States, present day during a presidential primary campaign.
•
Social Justice2020
Clarion Books
Hardcover • 2020
YA
13-17 years
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