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Eight-year-old James has a big brother named John and a little sister named Shayla. Their mom takes great care of them, and their dad works fixing planes at the airport. Born with one leg shorter than the other, James is always told by doctors that he will never be able to run like his friends. This saddens James, who dreams of running. Other kids tease him for the way he walks. When the family moves, James finds his classmates to be kind, and they encourage him. Every weekend, he runs with his best friend, Daniel, and over time gains confidence. Though it’s difficult, James never gives up and with practice gets better and better. His gym teacher notices and suggests he join the school track team. On the day of the big race, James finishes second, and the entire family celebrates.
Charles’ inspiring picture book presents a determined young boy who, despite his special “challenge,” never gives up on his dream to run. With encouragement from his grandmother and fellow classmates, James excels, practicing running each week. Here, young readers have a perfect tale of overcoming one’s difficulties. Children who face similar circumstances or other challenges will delight in James’ joy as he builds up, through practice and determination, the courage and ability to join his school’s track team. The loving-kindness and encouragement from James’ grandmother expresses a powerful, positive message that is important and healthy for young readers’ well-being. Cheery, colorful artwork accompanies the text, and the joyful fun of running is illustrated through depictions of large, happy eyes and bright smiles on the children’s faces. Charles includes at the story’s end two additional fun features: a page for coloring featuring James running as his family cheers him on and a word-search puzzle containing such important terms as “courage,” “hope,” “kind,” “friend,” and “respect.”