The Runaways (novel) facts for kids
The Runaways is an exciting children's book written by the English author Ruth Thomas. It was first published in 1987 by Hutchinson. The story is about two eleven-year-old friends, Julia and Nathan, who find a large amount of money. They decide not to tell anyone about it. Because they are worried about getting into trouble, they leave their city and go on an adventure.
Contents
About The Runaways Book
The Runaways is a popular story for young readers. It takes you on a journey with Julia and Nathan. They start their adventure in the East End of London, which is where Ruth Thomas used to be a teacher. As they try to stay hidden, their travels take them to different places. These places include the seaside town of Brighton and the wild, open lands of Exmoor. The book explores themes of friendship, choices, and what it means to be on your own.
The Story of Julia and Nathan
The main characters in The Runaways are Julia and Nathan. They are both eleven years old. One day, they discover a lot of money. Instead of reporting it, they keep it a secret. This decision leads them to feel worried about what might happen if they are found out. To avoid getting into trouble, they decide to run away from home. Their journey becomes a big part of the story.
Where the Adventure Takes Place
The book starts in the busy East End of London. This area is known for its history and many different neighborhoods. As Julia and Nathan run away, they travel to other parts of England. One place they visit is Brighton, a famous city on the south coast. Brighton is known for its pier and beaches. They also go to Exmoor, which is a large area of hills and open countryside. These different settings make their adventure even more interesting.
Awards and Recognition
The Runaways received a special award called the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. This award is very important in children's literature. It is given to a book that stands out. What makes this prize unique is that it is judged by a group of British children's writers. Winning this award means the book was considered one of the best.
What Critics Said
When The Runaways was released, many people praised it. The Guardian newspaper, a well-known publication, called the book "A first rate novel." This means they thought it was an excellent and high-quality story. The book's success in England led to it being published in other countries. The first edition for readers in the United States came out in 1989.
