7 /10 1 Votes7
Language English Pages 256 Originally published 2009 Page count 256 Publisher Egmont Group | 3.5/5 Goodreads Publication date 2009 ISBN 978-1405222334 Genre Young adult fiction Country United Kingdom | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Similar Julia Donaldson books, Children's literature | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 g321 running on the cracks moon on the grass productions
Running on the Cracks is award-winning writer Julia Donaldson's first novel aimed at a teenage audience. It was published in 2009.
Contents
- 2015 g321 running on the cracks moon on the grass productions
- Plot
- Development
- Recognition
- Adaptations
- References
Plot
The story revolves around 15-year-old Leo, who runs away from her aunt and uncle's home, where she has been living since the sudden death of her musician parents. Leo is driven away by the disturbing behaviour of her uncle. She does not expect a 46-year-old touching her. She escapes to Glasgow, where she comes across a wide variety of characters, who all help her to solve the mystery of where her grandparents are.
Development
Donaldson has spoken openly about how the character of Mary, who suffers from a mental illness, was inspired by the people she met while her son was in hospital.
Running on the Cracks is Donaldson's longest book.
Recognition
Running on the Cracks won the Nasen Inclusive Children's Book Award 2009, and was shortlisted for the Independent Booksellers award.
Adaptations
Running on the Cracks has been adapted for the stage by the Tron Theatre. The production toured in 2013, including a staging at the Pilot Theatre and the York Theatre Royal. The book was adapted by writer Andy Arnold, directed by Katie Posner and the lead role of Leo was performed by Jessica Henwick.
The play received positive reviews from critics, with The Guardian describing it as "gripping", The Scotsman praising the "fine performances from the five-strong cast, with Gaylie Runciman in poignant form as Mary, and Jessica Henwick outstanding as Leo", and The Times giving four stars and noting the show's "edge-of-the-seat excitement of a thriller". STV also gave four stars.