The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen follows sixteen-year-old Jessica Carlisle, a promising track athlete who loses her leg in a bus accident, and her journey to adapt to life with a prosthetic limb, regain her passion for running, and embrace new and meaningful friendships, especially with her classmate Rosa, who has cerebral palsy. The book discusses trauma, loss, and disability.

Wendelin Van Draanen’s The Running Dream garners praise for its inspiring and realistic narrative of a teen amputee's journey to reclaim her life through running. Reviewers commend the well-developed characters and uplifting message. Some critique the predictable plot and occasional lack of depth, but overall, it is celebrated for its motivational and heartfelt storytelling.

A reader who would enjoy The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen is likely someone who appreciates heartfelt stories of resilience and personal triumph. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper will find the book's themes of overcoming physical challenges and embracing diversity especially compelling.

Inspirational / Emotional / Hopeful / Challenging / Heartwarming

- Wendelin Van Draanen is also known for her popular Sammy Keyes series, which features a young sleuth solving mysteries. 
- The Running Dream won the 2012 Schneider Family Book Award for its sensitive portrayal of living with a disability.

**Jessica Carlisle**  
A sixteen-year-old track star who faces life-changing challenges after a tragic accident leads to the loss of her leg. With perseverance and the support of her community, she works toward running again.

**Fiona**  
Jessica’s best friend and fellow track teammate, known for her unwavering support and optimism. She spearheads efforts to help Jessica obtain her prosthetic.

**Mr. Carlisle**  
Jessica’s father, a self-employed handyman struggling with the emotional and financial impact of his daughter’s accident.

**Mrs. Carlisle**  
Jessica's mother, who provides consistent support during her daughter's recovery journey, helping Jessica move forward with her life.

**Kaylee Carlisle**  
Jessica’s younger sister, who learns from the resilience Jessica shows in the face of adversity.

**Coach Kyro**  
Jessica’s supportive running coach who helps her return to her passion with encouragement and practical support.

**Gavin Vance**  
The town mayor’s son and Jessica's schoolmate, initially admired by Jessica for his charm and later becomes an important ally in her journey.

**Rosa Brazzi**  
A classmate with cerebral palsy, admired by Jessica for her spirit and intelligence, acting as an inspiration in her recovery process.

**Hank Kruber**  
The prosthetist tasked with creating Jessica’s prosthetic legs, who becomes a crucial part of her rehabilitation.

**Chloe**  
A receptionist and amputee at the prosthetist's office who inspires Jessica with her ability to move gracefully.

**Merryl**  
A self-centered member of the track team, who briefly dates Gavin and often makes things about herself.

**Ms. Rucker**  
Jessica's math teacher, initially seen as strict but later shows support for Jessica and Rosa.

**Marla Sumner**  
A reporter for the local news who spotlights the community's support for Jessica and her efforts in recovery.

**Vanessa Steele**  
Jessica’s track rival, known for her spoiled demeanor and antagonistic behavior on and off the track.

**Lucy Sanders**  
Jessica’s teammate who was tragically killed in the bus accident, prompting Jessica to reflect on her own circumstances.

**Sherlock**  
The Carlisle family dog who stays by Jessica’s side and provides motivation for her to resume running.

Wendelin Van Draanen

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Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read The Running Dream | SuperSummary

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Overview

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The Running Dream Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-3

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 4-6

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-9

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 10-12

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 13-15

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 16-18

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 16-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 19-21

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 19-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 22-24

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 22-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 25-26

The Running Dream Part 1, Chapters 25-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 1-3

The Running Dream Part 2, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 4-6

The Running Dream Part 2, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 7-9

The Running Dream Part 2, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 10-12

The Running Dream Part 2, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 13-15

The Running Dream Part 2, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 1-3

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 4-6

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 7-9

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 10-12

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 13-15

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 16-18

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 16-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 19-21

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 19-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 22-24

The Running Dream Part 3, Chapters 22-24 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 1-3

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 4-6

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 7-9

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 10-12

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 13-15

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

Part 4, Chapters 16-18

The Running Dream Part 4, Chapters 16-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 1-3

The Running Dream Part 5, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 4-6

The Running Dream Part 5, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 7-9

The Running Dream Part 5, Chapters 7-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 10-12

The Running Dream Part 5, Chapters 10-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 5, Chapters 13-15

The Running Dream Part 5, Chapters 13-15 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Running Dream Character Analysis

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Themes

The Running Dream Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Running Dream Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Running Dream Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Running Dream Essay Topics

The Running Dream

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Running Dream?

Reading Age

Book Details