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Running
When fifteen-year-old Cuban American Mariana Ruiz’s father runs for president, Mari starts to see him with new eyes. A novel about waking up and speaking up, and what happens when you stop seeing your dad as your hero—while the whole country is watching.
In this thoughtful, authentic, humorous, and gorgeously written novel about privacy, waking up, and speaking up, Senator Anthony Ruiz is running for president. Throughout his successful political career he has always had his daughter’s vote, but a presidential campaign brings a whole new level of scrutiny to sheltered fifteen-year-old Mariana and the rest of her Cuban American family, from a 60 Minutes–style tour of their house to tabloids doctoring photos and inventing scandals. As tensions rise within the Ruiz family, Mari begins to learn about the details of her father’s political positions, and she realizes that her father is not the man she thought he was.
But how do you find your voice when everyone’s watching? When it means disagreeing with your father—publicly? What do you do when your dad stops being your hero? Will Mari get a chance to confront her father? If she does, will she have the courage to seize it?
In this thoughtful, authentic, humorous, and gorgeously written novel about privacy, waking up, and speaking up, Senator Anthony Ruiz is running for president. Throughout his successful political career he has always had his daughter’s vote, but a presidential campaign brings a whole new level of scrutiny to sheltered fifteen-year-old Mariana and the rest of her Cuban American family, from a 60 Minutes–style tour of their house to tabloids doctoring photos and inventing scandals. As tensions rise within the Ruiz family, Mari begins to learn about the details of her father’s political positions, and she realizes that her father is not the man she thought he was.
But how do you find your voice when everyone’s watching? When it means disagreeing with your father—publicly? What do you do when your dad stops being your hero? Will Mari get a chance to confront her father? If she does, will she have the courage to seize it?
9 pages, Audiobook
First published July 14, 2020
52 people are currently reading
4219 people want to read
About the author
Natalia Sylvester
11 books71.2k followersNatalia Sylvester is the Pura Belpré- and Schneider Family-honor winning author of the young adult novel BREATHE AND COUNT BACK FROM TEN, and the award-winning author of the young adult novel RUNNING and the adult novels EVERYONE KNOWS YOU GO HOME and CHASING THE SUN. Her first picture book, A MALETA FULL OF TREASURES, illustrated by Juana Medina, is out now from Penguin Random House. Her debut middle grade novel, NO WAY NEVER SISTERS, co-written with Chantel Acevedo, is forthcoming in March 2026 from Simon & Schuster.
Natalia's non-fiction has appeared in the New York Times, Bustle, Catapult, Electric Literature, Latina magazine, and McSweeney's Publishing. Her essays have been anthologized in collections such as A MAP IS ONLY ONE STORY and A MEASURE OF BELONGING: WRITERS OF COLOR ON THE NEW AMERICAN SOUTH.
Born in Lima, Peru, Natalia came to the US at age four and grew up in Florida and the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. She received a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Miami, was a 2021 Visiting Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, and was formerly a faculty member at the Mile-High MFA program at Regis University. She now lives in South Florida.
Natalia's non-fiction has appeared in the New York Times, Bustle, Catapult, Electric Literature, Latina magazine, and McSweeney's Publishing. Her essays have been anthologized in collections such as A MAP IS ONLY ONE STORY and A MEASURE OF BELONGING: WRITERS OF COLOR ON THE NEW AMERICAN SOUTH.
Born in Lima, Peru, Natalia came to the US at age four and grew up in Florida and the Rio Grande Valley in Texas. She received a BA in Creative Writing from the University of Miami, was a 2021 Visiting Associate Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, and was formerly a faculty member at the Mile-High MFA program at Regis University. She now lives in South Florida.
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July 27, 2025Friends, today I'm thrilled to share the cover of my debut YA novel, RUNNING, with you!
Coming July 14 2020, it’s the story of 15-year-old Mari & how she begins to find her voice when her father runs for president. Artwork by Alex Cabal, design by Sharismar Rodriguez at HMH teen.
Links!
Add it to goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Pre-order: https://www.hmhbooks.com/shop/books/R...
AND enter to win an advance copy on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/nataliasylv
Coming July 14 2020, it’s the story of 15-year-old Mari & how she begins to find her voice when her father runs for president. Artwork by Alex Cabal, design by Sharismar Rodriguez at HMH teen.
Links!
Add it to goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/4...
Pre-order: https://www.hmhbooks.com/shop/books/R...
AND enter to win an advance copy on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/nataliasylv
November 25, 2023
What a phenomenal and incisive book that asks some really fantastic questions about politics, privacy, and family, power dynamics -- and what it means to stand up for what you believe in, even at the detriment of your parent's career.
- Follows Mariana, a Cuban-American teen and daughter of a GOP presidential nominee. Growing up, Mariana has always separated her life from her father's political career, but when her privacy is invaded and she can no longer turn away from her father's political positions, Mariana will have to speak up - even if it's against her own father.
- My goodness, this book is PHENOMENAL. I'm in awe with how Sylvester deftly and perfectly wrote a teenage voice that balances being both young and vulnerable, explores the pressures and condescension that young activists face, and explores family dynamics - especially between parent and child.
- I also really enjoyed the unique YA perspective that explores what it's like being in a high-visibility contexts; that presentation and image is curated, deliberate, and absolutely everything.
- I LOVED Mariana as a protagonist. I loved that behaved like a teenager, had teenage concerns, and had an incredible coming-of-age journey where she learns, unlearns, examines her own privileges, and grows. (I also think the fact that she was a younger teen [15 years old] worked REALLY well for her character arc.)
- Honestly? Everyone should read this book.
Trigger/content warning:
- Follows Mariana, a Cuban-American teen and daughter of a GOP presidential nominee. Growing up, Mariana has always separated her life from her father's political career, but when her privacy is invaded and she can no longer turn away from her father's political positions, Mariana will have to speak up - even if it's against her own father.
- My goodness, this book is PHENOMENAL. I'm in awe with how Sylvester deftly and perfectly wrote a teenage voice that balances being both young and vulnerable, explores the pressures and condescension that young activists face, and explores family dynamics - especially between parent and child.
- I also really enjoyed the unique YA perspective that explores what it's like being in a high-visibility contexts; that presentation and image is curated, deliberate, and absolutely everything.
- I LOVED Mariana as a protagonist. I loved that behaved like a teenager, had teenage concerns, and had an incredible coming-of-age journey where she learns, unlearns, examines her own privileges, and grows. (I also think the fact that she was a younger teen [15 years old] worked REALLY well for her character arc.)
- Honestly? Everyone should read this book.
Trigger/content warning:
October 24, 2020
This books is so in my wheelhouse. Coming of age story, talking about race and politics. Yesss please
Watch me discuss the book here: https://youtu.be/F526HcbVD6w
Watch me discuss the book here: https://youtu.be/F526HcbVD6w
August 28, 2020
Cuban-American Mariana is running. She is running to keep up with her rapidly changing life as her father's political career becomes front and centre for her family. Her life will now play out in the media for all to see. Every blemish will be noticed and every smile judged for it's sincerity. I thought this was a good exploration of how violated a person can feel when they become a public figure up for scrutiny. Finding out that your parent may not be the hero you always thought they were is also quite a relatable theme, and Mari's struggle to speak out against her father felt believable. Her pain was evident as she developed an understanding of how her father was potentially failing the people he claimed to be proud to represent. I enjoyed Mari's friendships and loved that there wasn't any romance. I thought it was really important that the author also raised awareness of how Gloria, her friend and father's employee, had negative media attention directed towards her and her girlfriend because of their romantic relationships. Politics has lots of victims. The author's notes reveal that the environmental concerns covered in the book were based on a real Bill that was passed in the Florida House and Senate but was ultimately vetoed by the Senator after people raised concerns over potential health issues. Pretty inspiring stuff happens when people speak out.
October 29, 2020
4.5 Stars
CWs: Mild instances of bullying, invasions of privacy, and some derogatory comments
This is an AMAZING story and the perfect gateway into Natalia Sylvester's work. Running tells the story of a young Cuban-American girl named Mariana who's trying to come into her own and find her own voice all while being watched by the entire nation as her father runs for President. It's such a thoughtful depiction of our current political landscape in Ameria, where the advent of social media, clickbait journalism, and even meme culture has proved to change the tide from one day to the next.
Mariana's life is extremely restricted and scripted to a T for these exact reasons, and the story is very much about her rejecting her role as a political prop in her father's family man image and figuring out what she actually believes in. She's also learning that saying nothing and doing nothing are politically charged actions, and that there is no such thing as a neutral stance when it comes to real issues that effect real people.
This is about Mariana making political choices for the first time in her life, and realizing that not having a vote is not equivalent to being helpless. This is an empowering and emotional story about standing up to injustice even when it's not easy or straightforward, which is exactly the kind of story young people need right now.
I love what Natalia Sylvester has accomplished in this book and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
CWs: Mild instances of bullying, invasions of privacy, and some derogatory comments
This is an AMAZING story and the perfect gateway into Natalia Sylvester's work. Running tells the story of a young Cuban-American girl named Mariana who's trying to come into her own and find her own voice all while being watched by the entire nation as her father runs for President. It's such a thoughtful depiction of our current political landscape in Ameria, where the advent of social media, clickbait journalism, and even meme culture has proved to change the tide from one day to the next.
Mariana's life is extremely restricted and scripted to a T for these exact reasons, and the story is very much about her rejecting her role as a political prop in her father's family man image and figuring out what she actually believes in. She's also learning that saying nothing and doing nothing are politically charged actions, and that there is no such thing as a neutral stance when it comes to real issues that effect real people.
This is about Mariana making political choices for the first time in her life, and realizing that not having a vote is not equivalent to being helpless. This is an empowering and emotional story about standing up to injustice even when it's not easy or straightforward, which is exactly the kind of story young people need right now.
I love what Natalia Sylvester has accomplished in this book and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future.
April 8, 2021
3.5 stars
this felt objectively very good. the beginning dragged a bit, but other than that I had no real criticisms. I guess I just wanted a bit . . . more? like it was good but it wasn't amazing if that makes sense. either way, I do think this book would be incredibly good for young teens who are just starting to learn about politics and how to use their voices—I would absolute recommend it to someone 13-15 or so
prereview: holy fuck this sounds SO GOOD why did no one tell me this book existed????????????????
this felt objectively very good. the beginning dragged a bit, but other than that I had no real criticisms. I guess I just wanted a bit . . . more? like it was good but it wasn't amazing if that makes sense. either way, I do think this book would be incredibly good for young teens who are just starting to learn about politics and how to use their voices—I would absolute recommend it to someone 13-15 or so
prereview: holy fuck this sounds SO GOOD why did no one tell me this book existed????????????????
May 29, 2020
Incredibly powerful.
April 16, 2020
I can vividly recall the first time I stood up for myself to my mother. It was an inconsequential thing, for most of my childhood my mother had dressed my sister and I in similar outfits. We were often confused as twins since there’s only a two-year difference between us. I can’t recall why this bothered me but it did, so one day I told my mother that I didn’t want to dress alike anymore, that I wanted my own style. I remember feeling scared that I would hurt her feelings but also the importance of standing up for my own. It’s hard to stand up to family because deep down we figure that what they do for us they do it out of love, it can be one of the greatest challenges you ever face. It’s one of the challenges that Mariana Ruiz is forced to make in the amazing YA novel, Running. Mariana’s father is running for President, he’s currently a Senator for Florida, running as a Latino candidate. Mariana loves her father, she admires his tenacity, his dedication to fight for what he believes and when we first meet her he believes he can do no wrong. Of course, this is a lie that is quickly dispelled as we grow older and we are forced to see that our parents are fallible and deeply human. It isn’t disrespect or disloyalty to question your parents, no matter what they’d have to say about the matter. Part of growing up is forging your own path, unlearning certain beliefs as you start delving into the world around you. Mariana is truly the girl character I would have wished I had growing up and one that I am so excited to share with my youngest sister and nieces. I’m proud that they’ll have Mariana as a role model. As we continue following the Ruiz family through Antonio’s presidential race, we see the cracks in the foundation, cracks that we are unaware of when we’re younger, but that seem so obvious as we continue to experience life. Mariana starts hanging out with an activist group at school that makes her aware of the power she holds because of her father, a power to make changes, to be heard when so often those around her are not, and when often decisions made by those in power affect those she loves. Mariana is afraid of this power because she doesn’t know how to wield it, and to be frank, she doesn’t want it. She’s learning to reconcile the fantasy she had of her parents, these people she put on pedestals, with humans that can make wrong decisions, while standing up for what she believes in, even when it goes against her family. At the same time, this power that she is learning about has her viewing her relationship with those around her, including her amazing friend, Gloria, who had hidden a part of her life because of her father’s beliefs. How much of a friendship is there when the power dynamics are tilted in your favor? Impact and intent are also explored in this book. Sometimes an ideology is filled with the best of intentions, but the execution towards these ideals deal with an impact that can’t be ignored. This was truly one of the best YAs I’ve read all year (in a year filled with amazing YA books). I was rooting for Mari from beginning to end, I understood her struggle to stand up for herself, to stand up against her family (while remaining loyal to them), to try to find out a way to be herself and still be by their side. It’s a struggle, one that’s not often talked about especially in a country where we already feel displaced and feel as if we have to stand up for our community no matter what. Mari shows us there’s a way to stand up for yourself and for them, a way to open a dialogue to get to feel content with yourself and your community. This was truly inspirational and I hope you all will give it a chance. Don’t forget to vote in this coming election too. This book is a reminder of how much power we have, how it matters that we stand up and have our voices heard. Thank you to the publisher for the advanced copy of this book. Thank you to Natalia Sylvester for writing this, my teenage self and myself thank you.
June 14, 2020
15-year-old Mariana's father is running for president in the United States, and she's just starting to realise that maybe she doesn't agree with his positions and policies. They're a Cuban American family living in Miami, and her father is the son of immigrants, but he has voted against immigration reform. And he was the state senator who sponsored the bill that's responsible for a water contamination crisis that Miami is facing. That's just a few of the examples showing his stances that horrifies not just Mari, but also me as I read the book. As Mari becomes gradually disillusioned with her father, I also gradually develop a dislike for the guy, both as a politician and as a father. He's seriously arrogant, egoistic, stubborn and patronising when he talks to anyone, including his own daughter! His campaign invades his family's personal privacy a lot, but he doesn't genuinely give a hoot when Mariana says she's not comfortable with it. I rooted for Mariana throughout as she fumes about how he's not listening, and as she tries to gather the courage to stand her ground, talk back to him and make him listen. She's very inspiring in a not too grandly heroic way - because of her fear of speaking in public, she's always chosen to take a silent, passive role on the sides, just supporting her father in the background at rallies and parroting lines written for her by his assistant that say she supports his positions, she believes in him, blah blah blah. Finally, a crisis in her best friend's family forces her to become aware of the environmental and housing problems happening in her county, and she joins her school's political activist group - these all make her research, for the first time, her father's political positions and voting record, and she has trouble reconciling the father who's always made promises to her and the people, and the contradicting real actions he has taken.
Political elections and being informed about your representative's positions and policies is a really relevant and important topic to explore, not just because another US presidential election is coming in 2020, but also because the age of social media and clickbait online journalism has turned politics into a personality game and performance, causing a politician's personality to overshadow their policies, which should be the ultimate focus. In Running, the author shows us a lot of what goes on in campaigning - Mariana's family goes through awkward press interviews, they gotta come up with election slogans, and Mari has to replace her personal photos and posts on her social media with cheesy stock photos of nature and ~inspiring captions~ the campaign staff picks out for her. This posturing is what her father uses to show his constituents that he's a "family man," but this is superficial because not only are there tensions with his wife and his daughter behind this facade, but also why does it even matter so much what kind of people they are in their personal lives? Are we voting for the people, or for the actions and policies they will make? I've been thinking about these things recently, and this book pushed me to think further. It's a well-researched and refreshing YA novel where all the characters are well developed and the whole plot is super tight.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC from the author and HMH Books via NetGalley - thank you! The book will be out on July 14!
Political elections and being informed about your representative's positions and policies is a really relevant and important topic to explore, not just because another US presidential election is coming in 2020, but also because the age of social media and clickbait online journalism has turned politics into a personality game and performance, causing a politician's personality to overshadow their policies, which should be the ultimate focus. In Running, the author shows us a lot of what goes on in campaigning - Mariana's family goes through awkward press interviews, they gotta come up with election slogans, and Mari has to replace her personal photos and posts on her social media with cheesy stock photos of nature and ~inspiring captions~ the campaign staff picks out for her. This posturing is what her father uses to show his constituents that he's a "family man," but this is superficial because not only are there tensions with his wife and his daughter behind this facade, but also why does it even matter so much what kind of people they are in their personal lives? Are we voting for the people, or for the actions and policies they will make? I've been thinking about these things recently, and this book pushed me to think further. It's a well-researched and refreshing YA novel where all the characters are well developed and the whole plot is super tight.
Disclaimer: I received an eARC from the author and HMH Books via NetGalley - thank you! The book will be out on July 14!
November 8, 2020
TW: emotional abuse, gaslighting, harassment of a minor, descriptions of panic attacks.
Following Mari, a Cuban-American teenager, and her coming to power moments as she starts to questions her family's politics and her own role in the world. A phenomenal read about privilege, politics, standing up for what you believe in, and family. There are so many nuanced conversations about being Latinx and the racism, colorism, and homophobia of the community.
Mari's voice is so strong and honest, Running is such a powerful read and very well-written. Natalia never downplays the toxic and abusive life, but also doesn't let Mari get away with her own privilege. The novel addresses so well Mari's trauma while also calling her out. She has the space to grow, to learn, to be afraid and brave, and to become a better ally and friend. A complex and conflicting Latinx teenager and a message for resistance and hope, my type of book.
I appreciate how the novel pushes Mari, and the reader, to strike to do better while still understanding that Mari's a teen and there are things out of her control. Maybe you can't change the entire world, but you can do something. She can't exactly change her dad's policies for example, but she can focus on one single issue and protest about it. That's the kind of message that it's so important to give, you know: it may feel very overwhelming to tackle every single problem in our societies but we can and should start somewhere. There are things young people can do, even if they can't vote yet. I love, love that.
Running is a gut-punching novel that doesn't shy away from having tough conversations with its protagonist, while also giving us a hopeful and warm ending. What a book!
An arc was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Following Mari, a Cuban-American teenager, and her coming to power moments as she starts to questions her family's politics and her own role in the world. A phenomenal read about privilege, politics, standing up for what you believe in, and family. There are so many nuanced conversations about being Latinx and the racism, colorism, and homophobia of the community.
Mari's voice is so strong and honest, Running is such a powerful read and very well-written. Natalia never downplays the toxic and abusive life, but also doesn't let Mari get away with her own privilege. The novel addresses so well Mari's trauma while also calling her out. She has the space to grow, to learn, to be afraid and brave, and to become a better ally and friend. A complex and conflicting Latinx teenager and a message for resistance and hope, my type of book.
I appreciate how the novel pushes Mari, and the reader, to strike to do better while still understanding that Mari's a teen and there are things out of her control. Maybe you can't change the entire world, but you can do something. She can't exactly change her dad's policies for example, but she can focus on one single issue and protest about it. That's the kind of message that it's so important to give, you know: it may feel very overwhelming to tackle every single problem in our societies but we can and should start somewhere. There are things young people can do, even if they can't vote yet. I love, love that.
Running is a gut-punching novel that doesn't shy away from having tough conversations with its protagonist, while also giving us a hopeful and warm ending. What a book!
An arc was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2021
This book touched on so many important things within a few pages. You should definitely read this. Also, I hate politicians so much.
July 7, 2020
Thanks to HMH Teen for the free advance copy of this book.
Mariana's father has been a politician her whole life, something she's mostly been able to ignore, just posing for photo ops here and there. But now that he's running for president, all of her privacy is gone and her parents feel like they're worlds away. Plus, Mari is beginning to uncover exactly what her father's policy positions are, and she does not agree with any of them.
RUNNING is a story about finding your voice when the whole world is watching you. It's terrifying enough to try to separate yourself from your parents as a teenager, but when your classmates are booing you for your father's political ideology? That's something else entirely. This book delicately navigates the confusing layers of living a public life you didn't ask for - invasive photos, people knowing your family's business, being unable to simply be a teenager like everyone else.
Plus, RUNNING also deals with how very personal Mari's father's Republican stances are to her friends and family in Miami. Xenophobia, homophobia, inaction on climate change, and more all affect their lives in measurable, negative ways. It may be theoretical to Papi when he's away in DC, but Mari witnesses the effects firsthand and decides she cannot stand aside. RUNNING is not to be missed.
Mariana's father has been a politician her whole life, something she's mostly been able to ignore, just posing for photo ops here and there. But now that he's running for president, all of her privacy is gone and her parents feel like they're worlds away. Plus, Mari is beginning to uncover exactly what her father's policy positions are, and she does not agree with any of them.
RUNNING is a story about finding your voice when the whole world is watching you. It's terrifying enough to try to separate yourself from your parents as a teenager, but when your classmates are booing you for your father's political ideology? That's something else entirely. This book delicately navigates the confusing layers of living a public life you didn't ask for - invasive photos, people knowing your family's business, being unable to simply be a teenager like everyone else.
Plus, RUNNING also deals with how very personal Mari's father's Republican stances are to her friends and family in Miami. Xenophobia, homophobia, inaction on climate change, and more all affect their lives in measurable, negative ways. It may be theoretical to Papi when he's away in DC, but Mari witnesses the effects firsthand and decides she cannot stand aside. RUNNING is not to be missed.
August 5, 2020
This book follows the main character, Mariana, who is a 15 year old Cuban American whose father is running for President. Throughout this book Mari starts to develop her own thoughts and opinions, and she realises that her father's opinions are in direct contrast to her own. She rejects her role as a political prop in her father's campaign and learns what it truly means to think for herself.
What I Liked:
Politics. I think this book did a fantastic job discussing politics and how severely lives can be affected by political policies. This was age appropriate and well explained without being condescending. It also explored the idea that you cannot be neutral when it comes to real issues that effect real lives. This is something that isn't generally discussed in YA literature and it was extremely well done.
Mari. I really connected with Mari's character as I have always been a very independent thinker, so I really enjoyed watching her journey as she became her own person. I don't think that politics is a very developed theme in YA books but in this instance it's nuanced and is explored from a number of different angles. I liked the fact that Mari made mistakes on her journey, but she learnt from them and was able to admit when she was wrong - she was a very "real" character.
Overall, this was a thought provoking and relatable novel based on a unique theme. I didn't completely fall in love with it but it was a well written and engaging novel.
What I Liked:
Politics. I think this book did a fantastic job discussing politics and how severely lives can be affected by political policies. This was age appropriate and well explained without being condescending. It also explored the idea that you cannot be neutral when it comes to real issues that effect real lives. This is something that isn't generally discussed in YA literature and it was extremely well done.
Mari. I really connected with Mari's character as I have always been a very independent thinker, so I really enjoyed watching her journey as she became her own person. I don't think that politics is a very developed theme in YA books but in this instance it's nuanced and is explored from a number of different angles. I liked the fact that Mari made mistakes on her journey, but she learnt from them and was able to admit when she was wrong - she was a very "real" character.
Overall, this was a thought provoking and relatable novel based on a unique theme. I didn't completely fall in love with it but it was a well written and engaging novel.
July 15, 2020
4.5 STARS
Fifteen-year-old Mariana Ruiz isn’t happy her father is running for president, but she’s used to life as a politician’s daughter. The more she learns about his policies, especially support from a wealthy person polluting the waters the more Mari realizes her dad isn’t the hero she thought.
The Ruiz’s, Cuban Americans, have a paternalistic family structure though readers don’t know if that’s cultural or that Papi is a selfish, controlling jerk or possibly a little of both. For Mari, I guess it doesn’t matter. He saw Mari as part of his campaign and public persona, more than for the individual she was. Both he and her mom were dismissive of Mari’s boundaries, though Mami put thought into Mari’s feelings before acquiescing to Papi.
I was very interested in politics at Mari’s age, though I don’t think I would have liked to be the daughter of a senator running for president. I loved the growth she exhibited throughout RUNNING. Nearly all parents fall from the pedestals in which their kids see them, even the best parents. Papi was far from the best, I didn’t like him one bit. I enjoyed seeing how Mari’s journey was a model for Mami’s.
RUNNING is a satisfying coming of age story with a political backdrop.
Fifteen-year-old Mariana Ruiz isn’t happy her father is running for president, but she’s used to life as a politician’s daughter. The more she learns about his policies, especially support from a wealthy person polluting the waters the more Mari realizes her dad isn’t the hero she thought.
The Ruiz’s, Cuban Americans, have a paternalistic family structure though readers don’t know if that’s cultural or that Papi is a selfish, controlling jerk or possibly a little of both. For Mari, I guess it doesn’t matter. He saw Mari as part of his campaign and public persona, more than for the individual she was. Both he and her mom were dismissive of Mari’s boundaries, though Mami put thought into Mari’s feelings before acquiescing to Papi.
I was very interested in politics at Mari’s age, though I don’t think I would have liked to be the daughter of a senator running for president. I loved the growth she exhibited throughout RUNNING. Nearly all parents fall from the pedestals in which their kids see them, even the best parents. Papi was far from the best, I didn’t like him one bit. I enjoyed seeing how Mari’s journey was a model for Mami’s.
RUNNING is a satisfying coming of age story with a political backdrop.
April 26, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this ARC courtesy of HMH Teen from Yallfest 2019. I am grateful for the opportunity to review an ARC for my readers, but this will not influence my final rating. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and based solely on the book.
I was craving a contemporary read as spring (and this staying at home action) demanded that I pick up one. While this wasn't the fluffy one that I thought I was going to get, but it was still a great read.
📌 plot
A political contemporary that actually gets political???
To be fully honest, I kind of thought I was going to get something like Red, White, and Royal Blue, where we touch on a few politics, but it's really on our characters and their romance. While I didn't see a romance listed in the summary, I didn't quite trust it not to end up on a fun-loving contemporary romp instead of getting to the politics and our main character finding her voice.
omg, i'm such a YA cynic nowwwww with the romance. i'm sorry, book goddesses and gods!!
However, this book. It brought all the politics, and brought a group of teens that are more than ready to rise up and let their voices be heard. It was the first time that I have actually read a political story that focuses on the politics. Mari starts off the story, going along with what her father says, wanting to escape the spotlight but not want to rock the boat. However, as she goes along in the story, she learns that she can do more than just go along with him and needs to find out what and who she wants to support. This is such a timely story, with the election coming up here in the US and the fact that more teen voices are finally being heard. This is exact book to pick up if you're looking for a complex, complicated story that brings the heat and tension of the election with real issues that are being faced by communities around the US.
There are definitely various plots that happen that are so true in our climate right now: the election, the lack of privacy in candidate's lives (with photos leaking online of Mariana where people assume she is nude), racism, and contaminated water. Like Mariana, I had no clue that the contaminated water was a real crisis that could have been faced by the Miami area. It was a story that brought more horror than the ghosts and demons I read about, and this story shows how change can be done. It's this activism in the part of the story that really is captivating and exhilarating.
I loved how this was not just a story that had real actions, but also focuses on the emotional journey of our heroine. This really is more of a coming of age story - with Mariana trying to figure out where her loyalties lie and realizing that her dad might not be the man she wanted him to be. However, due to the aspect, the pacing really got to be quite slow at time for me. This was my biggest issue with the story - despite the fact that I enjoyed it, I found it to be so slow at times, and it felt like it dragged on. I just wanted the story to be slightly more concise, so we could really fly through this incredible story.
📌 characters
These characters are complex, intriguing personalities that are all dynamic and go through many journeys. Mariana is our heroine, and she is a wonderful one. She goes through many journeys, and her actions have consequences - allowing us to dive deeper into her characterization. It is amazing the growth that she sees throughout the story, and the Mari that we started with isn't the Mari we ended with. It was brilliant, authentic, and real.
The other side characters were great as well. Mariana's parents were flawed, but they were highly intriguing. The same can be said for all of the rest of the characters as well - I enjoyed all of Mariana's friends as well. They all had their own complexities to them as well as traits and backstories to them. Mariana's PODER friends as well as Vivi and Zoey were a fantastic support system, but also felt like real teens out there. I enjoyed reading about them, and they made great co-stars to Mariana's star.
📌 theme
This book definitely had a couple of different themes to it. We take on the complexity of family - the closeness of it, how you can differ, etc. - along with environment issues, rising up, and more. The environmental issues were perhaps the most compelling, since here in America, most of us take it for granted that our drinking water should and will be safe. However, this story shines a light on the fact that this isn't always the case.
📌 overall
Overall, this was a great read! Sylvester created a wonderful debut, and her writing was powerful, compelling, and easy to read. She created a wonderful journey of a story - both with action and emotional stories. Although the pacing did get really slow at parts for me, that was really the only issue that I had with the story. I definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in politics and the election this year as one girl realizes her voice can and should be heard.
rating: Anna rating, because this book would have been perfect - just wanted a slightly more faster pacing
representation: Latinx MCs and side characters, Asian-Latinx side character, Haitian side character, Cuban MC, f/f side romance
content warnings: deportation (side character's family member), leaking of underage (sort of) nude images, racism, and creepy comments made by an adult man
I was craving a contemporary read as spring (and this staying at home action) demanded that I pick up one. While this wasn't the fluffy one that I thought I was going to get, but it was still a great read.
📌 plot
A political contemporary that actually gets political???
To be fully honest, I kind of thought I was going to get something like Red, White, and Royal Blue, where we touch on a few politics, but it's really on our characters and their romance. While I didn't see a romance listed in the summary, I didn't quite trust it not to end up on a fun-loving contemporary romp instead of getting to the politics and our main character finding her voice.
omg, i'm such a YA cynic nowwwww with the romance. i'm sorry, book goddesses and gods!!
However, this book. It brought all the politics, and brought a group of teens that are more than ready to rise up and let their voices be heard. It was the first time that I have actually read a political story that focuses on the politics. Mari starts off the story, going along with what her father says, wanting to escape the spotlight but not want to rock the boat. However, as she goes along in the story, she learns that she can do more than just go along with him and needs to find out what and who she wants to support. This is such a timely story, with the election coming up here in the US and the fact that more teen voices are finally being heard. This is exact book to pick up if you're looking for a complex, complicated story that brings the heat and tension of the election with real issues that are being faced by communities around the US.
There are definitely various plots that happen that are so true in our climate right now: the election, the lack of privacy in candidate's lives (with photos leaking online of Mariana where people assume she is nude), racism, and contaminated water. Like Mariana, I had no clue that the contaminated water was a real crisis that could have been faced by the Miami area. It was a story that brought more horror than the ghosts and demons I read about, and this story shows how change can be done. It's this activism in the part of the story that really is captivating and exhilarating.
I loved how this was not just a story that had real actions, but also focuses on the emotional journey of our heroine. This really is more of a coming of age story - with Mariana trying to figure out where her loyalties lie and realizing that her dad might not be the man she wanted him to be. However, due to the aspect, the pacing really got to be quite slow at time for me. This was my biggest issue with the story - despite the fact that I enjoyed it, I found it to be so slow at times, and it felt like it dragged on. I just wanted the story to be slightly more concise, so we could really fly through this incredible story.
📌 characters
These characters are complex, intriguing personalities that are all dynamic and go through many journeys. Mariana is our heroine, and she is a wonderful one. She goes through many journeys, and her actions have consequences - allowing us to dive deeper into her characterization. It is amazing the growth that she sees throughout the story, and the Mari that we started with isn't the Mari we ended with. It was brilliant, authentic, and real.
The other side characters were great as well. Mariana's parents were flawed, but they were highly intriguing. The same can be said for all of the rest of the characters as well - I enjoyed all of Mariana's friends as well. They all had their own complexities to them as well as traits and backstories to them. Mariana's PODER friends as well as Vivi and Zoey were a fantastic support system, but also felt like real teens out there. I enjoyed reading about them, and they made great co-stars to Mariana's star.
📌 theme
This book definitely had a couple of different themes to it. We take on the complexity of family - the closeness of it, how you can differ, etc. - along with environment issues, rising up, and more. The environmental issues were perhaps the most compelling, since here in America, most of us take it for granted that our drinking water should and will be safe. However, this story shines a light on the fact that this isn't always the case.
📌 overall
Overall, this was a great read! Sylvester created a wonderful debut, and her writing was powerful, compelling, and easy to read. She created a wonderful journey of a story - both with action and emotional stories. Although the pacing did get really slow at parts for me, that was really the only issue that I had with the story. I definitely recommend this book for anyone interested in politics and the election this year as one girl realizes her voice can and should be heard.
rating: Anna rating, because this book would have been perfect - just wanted a slightly more faster pacing
representation: Latinx MCs and side characters, Asian-Latinx side character, Haitian side character, Cuban MC, f/f side romance
content warnings: deportation (side character's family member), leaking of underage (sort of) nude images, racism, and creepy comments made by an adult man
April 21, 2020
Oh this book is so much a coming of age story about identity, family and heart all dressed up in one man’s campaign for president. I loved it. I love the fact that politics has become something we can talk about in Young adult fiction. I felt like this writer assumed I had prior knowledge of the electoral system and the political playground as a whole and I love it when I feel like an author doesn’t have to talk down to me. More politics in fiction please!
Mari was a great character to spend this book with because she is at that stage of life when she has her family loyalty and that is as strong as it has ever been but she also wants to be her own person and has her own ideals and values and sometimes those go against the family values. I loved watching her trying to overcome these struggles and find a balance at the same time as forming her own identity.
There is an awful lot about friendship in this book as well. Friendships where you wouldn’t think to find them and friendships weathering the test of time. We have all been through those times when actually a friendship isn’t what it used to be and it can be painful to acknowledge that or throw away your preconceived ideas about where your loyalties lie.
Identity is such a key theme in this book, racial ideaty, family identity and identity as a woman coming of age in today’s society, Throw into that mix some political identity and some gender identity and wow Mari has a lot on her plate. It was tough to read at times but overall this book has something for everyone and is definitely something I wish I had read when I was struggling with my own conflicting identities when I was her age!
Mari was a great character to spend this book with because she is at that stage of life when she has her family loyalty and that is as strong as it has ever been but she also wants to be her own person and has her own ideals and values and sometimes those go against the family values. I loved watching her trying to overcome these struggles and find a balance at the same time as forming her own identity.
There is an awful lot about friendship in this book as well. Friendships where you wouldn’t think to find them and friendships weathering the test of time. We have all been through those times when actually a friendship isn’t what it used to be and it can be painful to acknowledge that or throw away your preconceived ideas about where your loyalties lie.
Identity is such a key theme in this book, racial ideaty, family identity and identity as a woman coming of age in today’s society, Throw into that mix some political identity and some gender identity and wow Mari has a lot on her plate. It was tough to read at times but overall this book has something for everyone and is definitely something I wish I had read when I was struggling with my own conflicting identities when I was her age!
February 6, 2024
3.5 stars
What if:
You’re the teenage daughter of a politician, and your father thrives on attention, but you hate it?
That father, whom you used to adore, has suddenly become someone you don’t know?
Your best friend’s family is wrecked by the policies he endorses?
You feel you should use your name and presence to protest against him?
Mariana has a difficult decision to make. If she stands up against her father, he could lose the election for President. And their relationship might never recover. If she stays silent, her community will suffer greatly; people might even lose their lives.
She’s just a sixteen-year-old girl, who will have to face unpleasant consequences with either choice…
What if:
You’re the teenage daughter of a politician, and your father thrives on attention, but you hate it?
That father, whom you used to adore, has suddenly become someone you don’t know?
Your best friend’s family is wrecked by the policies he endorses?
You feel you should use your name and presence to protest against him?
Mariana has a difficult decision to make. If she stands up against her father, he could lose the election for President. And their relationship might never recover. If she stays silent, her community will suffer greatly; people might even lose their lives.
She’s just a sixteen-year-old girl, who will have to face unpleasant consequences with either choice…
June 16, 2020
"Sometimes I think if she were still here [...] maybe I wouldn't care as much. Maybe I wouldn't be marching. And then I feel bad because that means I'm exactly like the people Jackie says are part of the problem: the ones who are happy to do nothing about injustice until it affects them or someone they love."
*
Mariana Ruiz's father has been a politician her whole life, but the family's made efforts to keep the politician separate from the Papi. Now, he's running to be his party's nominee for President. As the stakes rise and Mari and her brother's involvement in his campaign grows, that barrier begins to breaks down. And Mari's growing awareness of Candidate Ruiz's politics and her desire to stand up for the place and the people she loves will put her on a collision course with the father who's been on a pedestal.
*
What Sylvester does so well in RUNNING is capture the feeling of being part of a movement as it’s cresting, whether your personal awareness was fully realized yet or not. I started this awhile back and then set it down in favor of a few other books in a row. That turned out to be serendipitous, because this book hit all the harder for being read mostly in a cool dark room as I rested up after taking to the streets with thousands of other citizens for D.C.'s Black Lives Matter/Defund the Police protests. Sylvester nails the necessity of movements being inclusive enough that people can grow inside of them, as well as the uncertainty of working out an identity separate from your parents' in adolescence. RUNNING also contains glimpses of a really strong sense of place, with descriptions of Miami that convey its rich cultural heritage (& precarious ecological situation).
*
I did find it kind of wild that Mari was 15 and seemed to have sat on stage for an infinite number of her father's speeches, but still had only the vaguest sense that he was a homophobe and zero knowledge of any of his policy positions. The plot is predicated on her cluelessness, which didn't always seem to toggle with she and her brother's level of involvement in his campaigns? But I could just be misremembering the degree to which 15 year olds pay attention to what's happening around them.
*
Mariana Ruiz's father has been a politician her whole life, but the family's made efforts to keep the politician separate from the Papi. Now, he's running to be his party's nominee for President. As the stakes rise and Mari and her brother's involvement in his campaign grows, that barrier begins to breaks down. And Mari's growing awareness of Candidate Ruiz's politics and her desire to stand up for the place and the people she loves will put her on a collision course with the father who's been on a pedestal.
*
What Sylvester does so well in RUNNING is capture the feeling of being part of a movement as it’s cresting, whether your personal awareness was fully realized yet or not. I started this awhile back and then set it down in favor of a few other books in a row. That turned out to be serendipitous, because this book hit all the harder for being read mostly in a cool dark room as I rested up after taking to the streets with thousands of other citizens for D.C.'s Black Lives Matter/Defund the Police protests. Sylvester nails the necessity of movements being inclusive enough that people can grow inside of them, as well as the uncertainty of working out an identity separate from your parents' in adolescence. RUNNING also contains glimpses of a really strong sense of place, with descriptions of Miami that convey its rich cultural heritage (& precarious ecological situation).
*
I did find it kind of wild that Mari was 15 and seemed to have sat on stage for an infinite number of her father's speeches, but still had only the vaguest sense that he was a homophobe and zero knowledge of any of his policy positions. The plot is predicated on her cluelessness, which didn't always seem to toggle with she and her brother's level of involvement in his campaigns? But I could just be misremembering the degree to which 15 year olds pay attention to what's happening around them.
January 21, 2021
3.5 stars.
Running started off as a very strong read for me, and I was really enjoying myself and could not put this book down. I liked the friendships and the themes of social justice and empowerment in this novel. However, the second half let me down. I'm not quite sure how to articulate my feelings about it, but I just expected more from the ending and wanted something more impactful and nuanced, and I didn't quite get what I wanted, sadly :(
In my opinion, this book definitely reads as a very young YA novel, so much such that I thought I was reading a middle grade book at times. Nothing wrong with middle grade, obviously (I love reading MG!) but from the synopsis, I wasn't expecting this book (and the main character) to feel so young. So that took away some of my enjoyment of the novel.
I did like reading about the main character, Mari, and from her perspective as the daughter of one of the GOP presidential candidates. She grew up very sheltered from her father's politics and didn't really understand his political views or stances, blindly supporting him in his political aspirations (which, in this book, is to become the president of the United States). However, once she eventually discovers what her father has done and supported in the past, she finally starts thinking for herself and standing up for what's right. Her journey of growth and discovery was interesting to read about and made me feel so much, especially when her father would emotionally abuse or gaslight her or when her independence and privacy was invaded by the media, just because she was the child of a presidential candidate. It hurt my heart :((
Overall, Running is a very fast and fascinating read about speaking up for justice, even when you have to go against someone you've considered a hero all of your life.
Running started off as a very strong read for me, and I was really enjoying myself and could not put this book down. I liked the friendships and the themes of social justice and empowerment in this novel. However, the second half let me down. I'm not quite sure how to articulate my feelings about it, but I just expected more from the ending and wanted something more impactful and nuanced, and I didn't quite get what I wanted, sadly :(
In my opinion, this book definitely reads as a very young YA novel, so much such that I thought I was reading a middle grade book at times. Nothing wrong with middle grade, obviously (I love reading MG!) but from the synopsis, I wasn't expecting this book (and the main character) to feel so young. So that took away some of my enjoyment of the novel.
I did like reading about the main character, Mari, and from her perspective as the daughter of one of the GOP presidential candidates. She grew up very sheltered from her father's politics and didn't really understand his political views or stances, blindly supporting him in his political aspirations (which, in this book, is to become the president of the United States). However, once she eventually discovers what her father has done and supported in the past, she finally starts thinking for herself and standing up for what's right. Her journey of growth and discovery was interesting to read about and made me feel so much, especially when her father would emotionally abuse or gaslight her or when her independence and privacy was invaded by the media, just because she was the child of a presidential candidate. It hurt my heart :((
Overall, Running is a very fast and fascinating read about speaking up for justice, even when you have to go against someone you've considered a hero all of your life.
September 26, 2020
RUNNING follows the life of young Mari during her father's presidential campaign. During this campaign, her views don't align with his father's political views and she also finds out some truths behind his campaign.
This YA debut is utterly authentic and thoughtful! In the beginning, I didn't agree with some of Mari's attitudes/behaviors and found her a bit reckless, however seeing her growth throughout the story I soon began to root for her. This book shows us the importance of speaking out your beliefs and standing up for what you think it is the right thing to do - Mari's voice in this novel was so powerful as she didn't choose to be erased or silenced. Sylvester digs deep into the politics and civil issues and shows us that our voices shouldn't be buried under the social pressure and one's image.
I found Mari's journey quite tiresome yet real in a sense that it's not an easy task to change the many realities which we encounter, knowing that they are ultimately cracks in the foundation. It is an invisible line between supporting and performing and Sylvester did a fantastic job of addressing this theme. Moreover, topics of gender role and privilege are also richly explored.
The characters were developed in nuance and I really enjoyed how my opinion changed about Jackie. I found the friendship between Mari and Vivi very genuine and precious. The relationship between children and parents is a highlight in this novel that I want to discuss with everyone.
RUNNING is a politic YA that packs a punch and I can't recommend this novel enough!
[ I received an ARC from the publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an honest review ]
This YA debut is utterly authentic and thoughtful! In the beginning, I didn't agree with some of Mari's attitudes/behaviors and found her a bit reckless, however seeing her growth throughout the story I soon began to root for her. This book shows us the importance of speaking out your beliefs and standing up for what you think it is the right thing to do - Mari's voice in this novel was so powerful as she didn't choose to be erased or silenced. Sylvester digs deep into the politics and civil issues and shows us that our voices shouldn't be buried under the social pressure and one's image.
I found Mari's journey quite tiresome yet real in a sense that it's not an easy task to change the many realities which we encounter, knowing that they are ultimately cracks in the foundation. It is an invisible line between supporting and performing and Sylvester did a fantastic job of addressing this theme. Moreover, topics of gender role and privilege are also richly explored.
The characters were developed in nuance and I really enjoyed how my opinion changed about Jackie. I found the friendship between Mari and Vivi very genuine and precious. The relationship between children and parents is a highlight in this novel that I want to discuss with everyone.
RUNNING is a politic YA that packs a punch and I can't recommend this novel enough!
[ I received an ARC from the publisher/Netgalley in exchange for an honest review ]
August 16, 2020
Mari’s father is a Latinx Senator running for president and it’s brought to Mari’s attention that her father’s political positions aren’t what she thought they were. With everyone watching, she begins to question her own beliefs and has to grapple with standing behind her father or standing up to him.
The heroine in this story is everything I hope for in a book. Mari has her faults, which made her coming of age story feel so incredibly real - and that’s exactly why I loved her so much. At a time when political tensions are high, this book gave me something to cheer about. I finished and immediately wanted to reread it, which I never do!
I love that the author explores the relationship between children and parents, specifically when a child begins making decisions for themselves - even if those decisions may not align with what their parents want. It’s always hard to stand up for yourself, particularly to your own parents, but I also feel like that’s exacerbated in Latinx families. Respecting authority is instilled in us, and that typically means doing what your parents say....when they say.
This is a YA book that packs a serious punch. I’ve waited moooonths to post this review and I still feel like I can’t do this book justice. My pre-order is on its way home to me and I can’t wait to reread it. I hope you will, too! And if you haven’t picked up Everyone Knows You Go Home by Natalia Sylvester - do it! 💕
The heroine in this story is everything I hope for in a book. Mari has her faults, which made her coming of age story feel so incredibly real - and that’s exactly why I loved her so much. At a time when political tensions are high, this book gave me something to cheer about. I finished and immediately wanted to reread it, which I never do!
I love that the author explores the relationship between children and parents, specifically when a child begins making decisions for themselves - even if those decisions may not align with what their parents want. It’s always hard to stand up for yourself, particularly to your own parents, but I also feel like that’s exacerbated in Latinx families. Respecting authority is instilled in us, and that typically means doing what your parents say....when they say.
This is a YA book that packs a serious punch. I’ve waited moooonths to post this review and I still feel like I can’t do this book justice. My pre-order is on its way home to me and I can’t wait to reread it. I hope you will, too! And if you haven’t picked up Everyone Knows You Go Home by Natalia Sylvester - do it! 💕
August 15, 2020
RUNNING by Natalia Sylvester follows a Cuban American high school sophomore named Mari who’s father is running for president. While they don’t talk politics too much at home, Mari is proud that her father works hard to serve the people of Florida. Until she starts to learn what he really stands for. This novel illustrates the importance of understanding civil issues, privilege, and standing up for what you believe in.
Natalia Sylvester does it again! This book was so compelling that I finished it in 2 sittings! Mari is a character that I really related to. I grew up in a conservative household where I didn’t really challenge my family’s beliefs, or even think to research political stances, until after college. Like Mari, when I discuss politics with family members, it can be very difficult.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book and I wish I could have read it when I was young. It’s extremely important, especially for young people, to understand they have a voice and should stand up for their beliefs. I highly encourage everyone, not only YA readers, to pick this up before Election Day later this year. It is a good reminder that injustices happen everyday, and we all need to vote in order fight for equal rights.
Highly recommend for those who have gone (or are currently going) through a political awakening, or those who love a compelling protagonist paving her own way.
Natalia Sylvester does it again! This book was so compelling that I finished it in 2 sittings! Mari is a character that I really related to. I grew up in a conservative household where I didn’t really challenge my family’s beliefs, or even think to research political stances, until after college. Like Mari, when I discuss politics with family members, it can be very difficult.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book and I wish I could have read it when I was young. It’s extremely important, especially for young people, to understand they have a voice and should stand up for their beliefs. I highly encourage everyone, not only YA readers, to pick this up before Election Day later this year. It is a good reminder that injustices happen everyday, and we all need to vote in order fight for equal rights.
Highly recommend for those who have gone (or are currently going) through a political awakening, or those who love a compelling protagonist paving her own way.
May 16, 2020
What an excellent book! A great example of how to write a character that’s unlearning things and has been in a position of power yet ignoring how much privilege she has.
May 21, 2020
Mariana, daughter of political candidate Anthony Ruiz, is a Cuban-American 15 year old living in Miami who is sheltered and closed off from the political race her father is running in. When a senior at school who’s politically active catches her attention, along with other issues cropping up in her and her friends lives, it forces Mari to face it head on. Will she stay silent and go along with her father’s conservative policies, or will she go running into a future with a voice to be heard?
I am by no means a contemporary YA reader. While I will read it occasionally if the subject interests me, I don’t read it often. Natalia Sylvester’s debut into the YA sphere is one that is compulsively readable, and one that is relevant to today’s issues in a multitude of layers. Her discussion of Latinx voters, and even in a broader sense of the tendencies of them leaning to conservative political agendas and policies, is very nuanced and well written. It’s very believable that Mari would be sheltered in this way, considering that she has built her father in such a way to be her hero, but turns into a struggle of how she views him but also her own agency.
There are multiple discussions among her friends and loved ones of : immigration, white privilege (and in turn, white passing privilege), environmentalism, LGBTQ+ rights and more. Each of these things are brought up in a way that are great and broach broader discussion amongst its readers, especially teens interested in politics. The book was overall a wonderfully well written read, and I await Natalia’s future work in YA and beyond with eagerness. The only thing I were to wish for in the book is that the character, Joe, should have had one final verbal lashing from Mari, but that is a completely selfish reason on my part 😂. I would recommend this book highly.
I am by no means a contemporary YA reader. While I will read it occasionally if the subject interests me, I don’t read it often. Natalia Sylvester’s debut into the YA sphere is one that is compulsively readable, and one that is relevant to today’s issues in a multitude of layers. Her discussion of Latinx voters, and even in a broader sense of the tendencies of them leaning to conservative political agendas and policies, is very nuanced and well written. It’s very believable that Mari would be sheltered in this way, considering that she has built her father in such a way to be her hero, but turns into a struggle of how she views him but also her own agency.
There are multiple discussions among her friends and loved ones of : immigration, white privilege (and in turn, white passing privilege), environmentalism, LGBTQ+ rights and more. Each of these things are brought up in a way that are great and broach broader discussion amongst its readers, especially teens interested in politics. The book was overall a wonderfully well written read, and I await Natalia’s future work in YA and beyond with eagerness. The only thing I were to wish for in the book is that the character, Joe, should have had one final verbal lashing from Mari, but that is a completely selfish reason on my part 😂. I would recommend this book highly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2020
Another amazing and timely book!
I'm giving this 4.5 stars because the topics addressed were amazing, but I did find the writing to be simple.
It was still a great read, one that I highly recommend, but it just wasn't an all-time favorite.
I enjoyed how this story was all about how our heroes may not be all that we think they are. Especially, for family members. You can love someone and they could be profiting off the misfortunate of others. Or their decisions make no sense to you and finding the power in our voice to speak out against those we feel are harming others.
This is so timely because I know a lot of families are having those debates now. It was also interesting because the ending was realistic. After all, the "villain" didn't truly change his ways, but now Marianna regained her power.
I did appreciate that this YA book didn't have a huge romantic plot because it allowed readers to feel they can make a difference without romantic partners.
Because it's YA the "evil" people were a little too obvious. We had two characters who were the wrongdoers and in reality, it's much more complicated. I wish we could have seen more of the complexity around political choices. The message of putting people's health first could still be the main argument not having to change the heart of the story.
It was also interesting how this book admitted that certain people have more privilege and voice, who choose not to use it until their effected by it. I wish someone would've pointed that out, but I'm interested to see if a younger reader will pick that up.
I also love the Cuban rep and how Marianna flipped from Spanish to English was very nice.
A good book that's empowering youth to start having an open discussion of politics, morals, and expression.
I'm giving this 4.5 stars because the topics addressed were amazing, but I did find the writing to be simple.
It was still a great read, one that I highly recommend, but it just wasn't an all-time favorite.
I enjoyed how this story was all about how our heroes may not be all that we think they are. Especially, for family members. You can love someone and they could be profiting off the misfortunate of others. Or their decisions make no sense to you and finding the power in our voice to speak out against those we feel are harming others.
This is so timely because I know a lot of families are having those debates now. It was also interesting because the ending was realistic. After all, the "villain" didn't truly change his ways, but now Marianna regained her power.
I did appreciate that this YA book didn't have a huge romantic plot because it allowed readers to feel they can make a difference without romantic partners.
Because it's YA the "evil" people were a little too obvious. We had two characters who were the wrongdoers and in reality, it's much more complicated. I wish we could have seen more of the complexity around political choices. The message of putting people's health first could still be the main argument not having to change the heart of the story.
It was also interesting how this book admitted that certain people have more privilege and voice, who choose not to use it until their effected by it. I wish someone would've pointed that out, but I'm interested to see if a younger reader will pick that up.
I also love the Cuban rep and how Marianna flipped from Spanish to English was very nice.
A good book that's empowering youth to start having an open discussion of politics, morals, and expression.
July 14, 2020
I don’t read a lot of YA but I absolutely adored this book! This is a coming of age story centered around having an opinion and politics. It is a very timely depiction of our current political climate in America and the role social media and journalism play in elections. It is an empowering and powerful story about having a voice and realizing that not having a vote is not equivalent to being helpless.
This is a book I wish I read when I was in high school. The main character Mari is amazing and I enjoyed her character development throughout the story. It was so powerful to see her stand up for injustice and it gave me hope for the future. This is the kind of stories we need right now. It is an important reminder that we have a voice and we should stand up for what we believe in.
The book made me think a lot about elections and the current political climate. I asked myself: Why are we so obsessed with the politicians personal lives? Are we voting for what we like about their personal lives, their perception or for their policies? Not only for higher positions like president and governor but also for local offices that have a huge impact in policy making.
As a latina I loved the Spanish words sprinkled throughout the book, the foods mentioned and even the struggles some of the characters faced as latinx. I think I could see a little of myself as a teenager in Mari and that is why the book hit home for me.
I am officially a Natalia Sylvester fan and I’m looking forward to reading more from her. I’ve heard great things about Everyone knows you go home.
This is a book I wish I read when I was in high school. The main character Mari is amazing and I enjoyed her character development throughout the story. It was so powerful to see her stand up for injustice and it gave me hope for the future. This is the kind of stories we need right now. It is an important reminder that we have a voice and we should stand up for what we believe in.
The book made me think a lot about elections and the current political climate. I asked myself: Why are we so obsessed with the politicians personal lives? Are we voting for what we like about their personal lives, their perception or for their policies? Not only for higher positions like president and governor but also for local offices that have a huge impact in policy making.
As a latina I loved the Spanish words sprinkled throughout the book, the foods mentioned and even the struggles some of the characters faced as latinx. I think I could see a little of myself as a teenager in Mari and that is why the book hit home for me.
I am officially a Natalia Sylvester fan and I’m looking forward to reading more from her. I’ve heard great things about Everyone knows you go home.
July 15, 2020
I had the privilege of reading this book back in January and y’all I devoured it from cover to cover in one sitting. This is Natalia Sylvester’s young adult debut and she doesn’t disappoint to deliver a story that is remarkable. RUNNING follows Mariana who is stuck in the middle of her father’s campaign for president. There is no doubt that she loves her father to death. However, when she finds out the truth behind his campaign and his political views, she now has to grapple with the decision of staying quiet or speaking up. Taking its readers through a story that will have you flipping the pages, Sylvester has written a beautiful YA novel about what it means to speak up and the power behind having a voice. I completely adored this book and Sylvester tells this story with the most gorgeous writing that will give you all chills. If you don’t like YA I highly recommend buying this book to the young adults in your family. This book will guide them and show them what it means to stand up for what they believe in. A stunning stunning stunning book!
October 9, 2020
Besides, my anger is too powerful to waste on hurting him. My anger is powerful enough for change.
Running was a really empowering read that was at times tough to get through. Mari starts the book so powerless -- her life dictated by everyone from her parents to her father's campaign manager -- but watching her find the courage to use her voice for what she believed in was such a touching experience. I also loved that she's on the younger side for a YA protagonist; it seems so rare to find a believable 15-year-old in YA now, which made this book even more of a treat.
C/W:
Running was a really empowering read that was at times tough to get through. Mari starts the book so powerless -- her life dictated by everyone from her parents to her father's campaign manager -- but watching her find the courage to use her voice for what she believed in was such a touching experience. I also loved that she's on the younger side for a YA protagonist; it seems so rare to find a believable 15-year-old in YA now, which made this book even more of a treat.
C/W:
October 11, 2020
There’s enough to like about this one, including an examination what happens when young adults begin to formulate their own political opinions and how to navigate conflicts when those views are in opposition to one’s parents. Politically minded young readers might find the narrative engaging, but this one never quite clicked for me. Enjoyable enough, readable enough, but lacking in the spark to make me root for the characters or think about its themes seriously after it was all done.
October 25, 2020
this was an excellent YA about finding your voice and standing up for the things you believe in, which is hard for anyone, let alone someone under intense public scrutiny. Mariana's voice was so strong and vibrant; I really enjoyed reading from her perspective and seeing the way her thoughts and opinions changed as she gained new insight about the world around her. a timely read for election season, for sure!
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