The Storm Runner

Zane is the protagonist and narrator of The Storm Runner. At the opening of the story, he has been homeschooled for a year to escape the constant bullying he experienced because of his physical disability. Throughout the novel, Zane struggles with the disadvantages that come from having one leg that is shorter than the other. Initially, he focuses only on the limitations that this situation places on him, but by the end, he realizes that his leg is powerful, both as a representation of his divine heritage and as an aspect of his own identity. His disability limits him physically, but beyond that, it only limits him as much as he lets it. Learning that his leg allows him to channel great Mayan magic transforms this physical feature from a liability into a difference that he now appreciates. This shift in mindset reflects A Positive Outlook on Differences and highlights The Journey of Self-Discovery that he has undergone. By coming to terms with the idea that his fear, not his leg, has held him back, Zane reaches a critical turning point that gives him the courage he needs to face Ah-Puch.