• Age: 10 to 13
• Grade: 5 to 8

Terrified of being targeted by bullies for being overweight, Lionel tries to go through Grade 8 attracting as little notice as possible. But he discovers something about himself: he’s fast. And Lionel takes up running. That leads to joining a running group, and being recruited for the school track team. But being on the track team and getting more attention brings him closer to the bullies he’s been avoiding, and makes him a target.

DAVID SKUYis a lawyer, a writer and a Leafs fan to the core. He spent most of his childhood playing some sport or another: hockey, soccer, football, tennis and a few others. What he remembers most is the intensity, the competitiveness, and the sheer enjoyment of playing a sport you love when you’re young. He has written five books in the Game Time series, three in the Rocket Blues series, as well as the YA novel Undergrounders, winner of the Silver Birch Award. Visit him at www.davidskuy.com.

David Skuy's profile page

• Nominated, Manitoba Young Reader's Choice Award
• Nominated, Red Maple Fiction Award

“A must-read for all.” ****/4

CM Magazine

“Lionel’s stumbling steps will be an inspiration for anyone looking to start down a new path … [his] determination to go the distance will inspire others to take their marks.”

Kirkus Reviews