Born to Run
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1982
239
Novel • Fiction
England • Contemporary
1982
Middle grade
9-12 years
Born to Run by Michael Morpurgo follows a greyhound initially saved from a canal by a lonely boy named Patrick. Named Best Mate, the dog is stolen and introduced to the harsh world of dog racing by Craig, forming a bond with Craig's daughter Becky and another dog, Alfie. After escaping with Becky, the dog, now named Brighteyes, is left alone, only to be found and cherished by a man named Joe, who renames him Paddywack. The narrative explores themes of perseverance and loyalty through the dog's three distinct lives with different companions.
Emotional
Heartwarming
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Hopeful
8,517 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Michael Morpurgo's Born to Run captivates readers with its emotional storytelling and engaging narrative. The book is praised for its heartwarming plot and the deep connection it fosters with the characters, especially the dog, Best Mate. However, some critics note predictability in the storyline and a simplistic writing style. Overall, it's an inspiring read, primarily enjoyed by younger audiences.
A reader who enjoys Born to Run by Michael Morpurgo is likely fond of heartwarming, animal-centered stories that highlight themes of friendship, resilience, and survival. Comparable to readers of Black Beauty by Anna Sewell and War Horse by Michael Morpurgo, they appreciate emotionally rich narratives with strong animal-human bonds.
8,517 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
239
Novel • Fiction
England • Contemporary
1982
Middle grade
9-12 years
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