Description

From award-winning and beloved children’s author Elizabeth Laird comes a stunning edition of The Fastest Boy in the World, with a cover illustration by Zeamanuel Abera, an updated author letter and additional content from the author, including discussion notes. This must-read modern classic was shortlisted for the CLPE Carnegie Medal and includes black and white illustrations by Peter Bailey.

Eleven-year-old Solomon loves to run; he dreams that one day he will be a gold-medal-winning athlete, in spite of his ragged shorts and bare feet.

When his grandfather announces that he’s going to take Solomon to Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, Solomon cannot believe his ears. And he is even more excited to hear that the Ethiopian running team will be doing a victory parade through the city that day!

But then Solomon’s grandfather collapses – and Solomon knows that getting help from his village is up to him. It’s a twenty-mile run from the city to home, and his grandfather’s life hangs in the balance. Can the small, bare-footed runner with the big heart make the journey?

This edition includes brilliant extra material, such as:
– An introduction by Elizabeth Laird
– Extra content from the author, including reading group questions

Publisher Review

The author has created intensely believable characters and her writing is full of perceptive insights. * School Librarian * Spare, arresting story of love, secrets and hard-won speed. * Metro * As with anything [Elizabeth] sets in Ethiopia, a country clearly dear to her heart, this short novel draws the reader into its setting. She is a superb writer, a masterly storyteller. * Scotsman * A life-affirming story. * The Times * What a delightful gem this book is. Expert touches allow the reader to imagine the Ethiopian setting with ease… Gentle and powerful, this book is a classic tale which younger readers will enjoy and which could be used as an excellent class reader. * Armadillo Magazine * Inspired by Elizabeth’s own experiences in Ethiopia comes an uplifting tale of family, friendship, hope and believing the impossible. * Ethiopian News * An endearing, eye-opening story about a brave boy whose dream to succeed will resonate with young readers from every walk of life. * lep.co.uk *