Book Information
- Series: Lorimer Sports Stories
- Imprint: James Lorimer & Company Ltd., Publishers
- Publication Date: 16 February 2021
- Copyright Year: 2021
- ISBN: 9781459415942
- Page Count: 136
- Dimensions: 5" x 7.75"
- Interest ages: 10-13
- Reading level: Grade 2
Purchasing Information
Lone Runner
by Dirk McLean
A Black teen displays persistence and confidence to go from running solo to being part of a cross-country team.
Set in a diverse neighbourhood in Scarborough, Ontario, this book follows Michaela as she goes from a solitary runner to an athlete who contributes to the success of her cross-country team. Discouraged by an incident at her mostly-white summer camp, Michaela comes into her own as part of her racially diverse school track team. Focusing on themes of persistence, friendship and overcoming rivalries, this book illuminates traits of connection, empathy and forgiveness.
About the Author

DIRK McLEAN is the author of children's picture books, the Sports Stories novel Not Out, and Team Fugee and Tournament Fugee in Lorimer's Soccer United: Team Refugee series. He has also written radio drama and stage plays that have toured southern Ontario elementary schools. Dirk was born in Trinidad & Tobago and now lives and works in Toronto.
Reviews
"An excellent choice for reluctant readers. Highly Recommended."
"An excellent read-aloud choice."
"Middle schoolers at a second grade reading level will root for Michaela as she steps out of her shell."
Awards
Subjects (BISAC)
Similar Titles
-
Run for Your Life
Cross-country runner Chris trains with a Native kid who has been displaced by a fire in the community and learns what it's like to be a refugee and literally run for your life.$27.99, HardcoverInterest ages: 10-13Reading level: Grade 3Lexile Reading Level: 540LThe Comeback
Soccer is the best medicine$8.99, PaperbackInterest ages: 10-13Reading level: Grade 2Lexile Reading Level: HL540LTwo Strikes
KaLeah's a natural at baseball, but when she is excluded and bullied by Nikki and her clique because she is black and a better player than Nikki, she joins the boys' team.$27.99, HardcoverInterest ages: 9-13Reading level: Grade 2Lexile Reading Level: 540LCalled Up
David is embarrassed when he doesn't make the A team. But befriending Omar, a Syrian refugee, makes David realize how lucky he is to be playing hockey at all.$27.99, HardcoverInterest ages: 10-13Reading level: Grade 2Lexile Reading Level: HL560L