Running: The Alex Decoteau Story

by Charlotte Cameron

Inspired by the life of Alex Decoteau, this moving one-act play tells the tale of a Cree hero and running warrior. In 1911, in Edmonton, Alberta, he became Canada’s 1st aboriginal police officer, famous for chasing after speeding vehicles on foot to ticket them! A champion runner and popular figure, Decoteau raced for Canada at the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, fought for Canada in World War I and was killed, in 1917, while running a message at the Battle of Passchendaele. He was only 29 years old.


The book includes an historical note, archival photographs, and a fascinating introduction to the play and the Alex Decoteau Run, which introduced Edmonton schoolchildren to this aboriginal role model.


Attention Appropriate for Grades 5 and up (9 years and older).

ebook

First published September 15, 2014

Reviews

[Brooke Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a moving story about my husbands Great uncle Alex❤️a real hero and an inspirational life

[Mila · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this a long time ago but I remember really liking it and finding the story fascinating.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know how I would enjoy reading a play as I hadn't read a play since I was in high school, but I was impressed and thoroughly enjoyed this book. I read the actual printed version of the book which included an introduction about Alex Decoteau and the play. Following the play are historical notes and photographs. This was a short read but it was very impactful.

[Morri Mostow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving play about a famous Metis long-distance runner and Canadian World War I hero. The book includes lots of interesting introductory material about the play's various productions, as well as an historical essay and archival photographs.