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Runaway Road
Sue Divin's Runaway Road is a riveting and moving story of family and belonging set in contemporary Northern Ireland, perfect for readers of Margaret McDonald's Glasgow Boys.
'An absolutely gripping read, the sort of book it's impossible to put down.' - Jan Carson
'Moving, funny, cinematic, compelling' - Bernie McGill
'This powerful, immersive story explores difference and belonging with real compassion and thoroughly engaging wit' - Byddi Lee, author of Barren
Ezra is 16. He’s no stranger to crossing the line, but this time it's really bad - and there's no going back.
His only hope of escape is to cross another line, the Northern Irish border, but that will mean leaving behind the only thing that really matters, his little sister, Evie.
Evie is 9 and sees it differently. Ezra took her into care, into safety, the last time they ran away. Why shouldn’t she go on the run with him now?
'An absolutely gripping read, the sort of book it's impossible to put down.' - Jan Carson
'Moving, funny, cinematic, compelling' - Bernie McGill
'This powerful, immersive story explores difference and belonging with real compassion and thoroughly engaging wit' - Byddi Lee, author of Barren
Ezra is 16. He’s no stranger to crossing the line, but this time it's really bad - and there's no going back.
His only hope of escape is to cross another line, the Northern Irish border, but that will mean leaving behind the only thing that really matters, his little sister, Evie.
Evie is 9 and sees it differently. Ezra took her into care, into safety, the last time they ran away. Why shouldn’t she go on the run with him now?
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 8, 2026
This is perhaps the most beautiful novel that I have ever read. It explores identity, grace, and family with both nuance and clarity. It critiques institutions in Northern Ireland while still revealing their potential to transform lives when properly resourced and staffed. Importantly, it speaks bravely about the power of paramilitaries in our society and the undue influence they have over young people, particularly those in care or living in socioeconomically deprived neighbourhoods. I experienced the full range of emotions alongside these incredibly complex characters. The way this story illustrates the power of the words spoken over us, and the importance of inviting others into the narratives that we have learned to believe about ourselves inspires me to be more vulnerable with the ones that I love and trust (and to recognise that I am indeed loved and can trust others). This novel is a triumph.
June 2, 2026
Such a brilliant story, beautifully told. A great read, with characters you root for, exploring important issues. Full of emotion, conflict, and a sly humour. Although aimed at a young adult audience it will also appeal to older readers. If you’re looking for an engaging page-turner that will stay with you long after you’ve read it, then Runaway Road fits the bill. Highly recommended
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews