I Am Reading: Running My Own Race by Abena Eyeson
Running My Own Race by Abena Eyeson 👉
| Publisher: | Nosy Crow |
|---|---|
| Publish date: | 3 July 2025 |
Kofi dreams of becoming a professional athlete, and when he wins a scholarship to the posh school, it looks like he might have a chance. But the school is intimidating. Kofi is the only Black boy there, and there's no one from his own area. His mum is determined that he use this chance to become a doctor or lawyer, not 'just' an athlete. His old friend is acting weird, and a boy in class seems determined to make his life hard. Kofi just wants to keep his head down and run – but will that be enough?
The tale of a poor boy trying to straddle two worlds is a familiar one, but Abena Eyeson gives it life by packing it with authentic details of Kofi's world and family. Kofi's mum is overbearing and occasionally excruitiating, but also ferocious when it comes to protecting her own. Both parents give to the community, and have also received when times were hard. Kofi is surrounded by 'aunties' – and everyone knows everyone's business!
In the end, this is a story about having the courage and determination to live your own life – to carpe diem, as Kofi's dad (a huge fan of The Dead Poets Society) reminds him. It's a positive story of how facing up to difficult conversations can change everything, and you'll be cheering Kofi on all the way through 😊.
Many thanks to Nosy Crow for my proof copy of this book.