Slowcoach

Ruby is a sixteen-year-old girl who is not sporty and signs up to run in the Dawson Dash, a 5k race for sporty sixth-formers. She starts to train with the help of the cute boy who has just moved in next door, and they begin to develop feelings for each other.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 06 June 2024
Publisher: Hot Key Books

Ruby, the protagonist of this captivating tale, embodies a delightful blend of fun, freshness, and a quiet yet profound radicalism. At the age of sixteen, as GCSEs come to an end and summer begins to unfold, Ruby finds herself embracing the joys of spending quality time with her best friends in the park, relishing the exhilarating experience of roller skating together. However, her summer plans take an unexpected turn when she is compelled to participate in the Dawson Dash, a 5k race exclusively for sporty sixth-formers. Despite her lack of athletic prowess, Ruby is determined to disprove the negative judgments of her mean brother and her strict PE teacher, who perpetuate stereotypes about overweight individuals.

As Ruby embarks on her training journey, she initially underestimates the extent of assistance she will require. She is pleasantly surprised, however, to find solace and support in the charming boy who recently moved in next door. Ollie, with his keen observance of Ruby's sweatiest and most vulnerable moments, becomes a source of unexpected encouragement and affection. As they embark on long summer evenings together, jogging through the enchanting parks of south London, Ruby gradually opens herself up to the possibility of developing feelings for Ollie.

However, the summer unfolds in ways that Ruby could never have anticipated. Her relationships with her friends, her family, and even her own self-perception undergo a transformative process. She discovers the power of self-acceptance, embracing her unique qualities and challenging the societal norms that have shaped her perspective. Through her journey, Ruby inspires others to break free from their own limitations and embrace their true selves, proving that beauty and strength can be found in unexpected places.

In conclusion, Ruby's story is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery, friendship, and embracing one's true identity. Through her journey, she reminds us that life is full of surprises and that our expectations can be surpassed by the unexpected connections we make with others. Ruby's quiet radicalism shines through, inspiring us to challenge the status quo and embrace the beauty of diversity in all its forms.

Weight: 160g
Dimension: 197 x 127 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471414060