Shaun Stevenson’s The Last Runner is certainly well-named. The book opens with the protagonist, Eric, being chased, and ends with him being chased. Throughout the story, Eric survives insane training to be a runner. Then he’s sent by his Bookkeeper to perform a very dangerous mission. The poor boy barely gets a moment’s rest from being chased. Some more explanations would have made this story more understandable and given it room to breathe. Imagination dashes back in, however, with the strange and even horrifying creatures intent on getting their hands, teeth, or claws on Eric.

Best for: Young adults, adults, and fans of action.

Discern: Deaths of domesticated animals, and faith portrayed as a leap in the dark.