Review of "Run Like a Girl" by Amaka Egbe
As an avid reader and passionate supporter of young adult literature, I was immediately drawn to Amaka Egbe’s "Run Like a Girl". It’s not often you find a book that weaves together the pulse-pounding excitement of sports with the complex fabric of identity and family dynamics, and I was eager to dive in. After receiving an ARC from Netgalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books in exchange for an honest review, I could hardly put it down—each page was a testament to resilience and self-discovery.
At the heart of this compelling coming-of-age story is Chidera “Dera” Okafor, a talented runner facing a seismic shift in her life when she moves in with her estranged father in a wealthy, predominantly white suburb of Dallas. Suddenly, Dera finds herself not only without the unwavering support of her mother and her beloved track team, but also in an environment where having no girls’ track team is just the tip of the iceberg. The stark contrast of her previous life generates a palpable tension that immediately captured my attention.
One of Egbe’s greatest strengths lies in her unflinching exploration of the dual barriers of sexism and racism. Dera’s experiences—a swirl of microaggressions from classmates and blatant hostility from the boys’ track team—feel all too real. The moment her braids are cut off by bullies is a harrowing illustration of the struggles female athletes, especially women of color, continue to face in male-dominated spaces. Still, Dera emerges as a beacon of determination, and her journey towards carving out her place on the track is nothing short of inspiring. It’s hard not to root for her as she finds her newfound family in Liam, Gael, and her best friend from home, Moot.
Family dynamics are another central theme in "Run Like a Girl." Dera struggles with her emotionally distant father, whose overprotectiveness occasionally veers into unintentional sexism. The nuanced portrayal of their relationship adds layers to the narrative—it’s not black and white, and I appreciated how Egbe allows readers to see Dera’s father through a compassionate lens. His girlfriend, Joyce, also emerges as an unlikely ally, adding depth and complexity to Dera’s new reality.
The romance between Dera and Gael was a delightful surprise—natural and heartfelt, it resonated with authenticity rather than feeling forced. Their relationship, built on mutual respect, is a lovely subplot that complements Dera’s personal growth. I found myself reflecting on my own friendships, especially Dera’s relationship with Roselyn, which beautifully encapsulates the idea of self-realization and growth.
Egbe masterfully balances heavier topics with moments of joy, camaraderie, and triumph. The track scenes themselves are exhilarating—I could almost feel the rush of the wind and the pounding of Dera’s heartbeat as she raced toward her goals.
In a world where young readers are bombarded with messages about what they can and cannot achieve, "Run Like a Girl" serves as a powerful reminder that girls can—and will—run. This book is perfect for sports enthusiasts and younger YA readers searching for a reflective narrative on identity and belonging.
Overall, my reading experience was nothing short of transformative. I felt inspired and connected to Dera’s journey. It’s a story that deserves to be heard, one that reminds us all of the resilience and strength inherent in celebrating who we are. I wholeheartedly recommend "Run Like a Girl" to anyone looking for an engaging read that sparks conversation and reflection—it is sure to leave a lasting impact!