Running Lean

December 1, 2013

Gr 8 Up-"Running lean" is a term used to describe an engine with too much air and not enough fuel. Calvin and Stacey are running lean as they try to give each other support. After the loss of his older brother, Calvin finds solace in his girlfriend, and he grows to depend on her as his family tries to deal with their recent loss. Stacey, while trying to comfort him, begins to exhibit disturbing behaviors and he later learns that she is anorexic. Both teens are delicate and find it difficult to maintain a healthy relationship. Through time and guidance from parents and friends, they find the help they need. Calvin's strong character and supportive family help him be there for Stacey, who needs to overcome her eating disorder. Some readers might grow weary of the uncertain relationship and frequent breakups but those who continue will find a hopeful ending and see the strength that Calvin displays and his unconditional love. Elements of spirituality throughout the book are depicted as a natural part of family life and not forced. The author writes from alternate points of view, allowing readers insight into thoughts and feelings of both Calvin and Stacey. A chaste teen romance, this novel provides positive resolutions to real-life issues.-Denise Moore, O'Gorman Junior High School, Sioux Falls, SD

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2013
Grades 8-12 In alternating third-person perspectives, debut author Sharples paints a desperate picture of a girl battling anorexia and her deeply concerned boyfriend. Calvin is reeling from the loss of his older brother, a soldier killed in Afghanistan. Now he's afraid he's going to lose someone else he loves. Internet articles, faith and prayer, and good old-fashioned powers of persuasion are Calvin's tools as he tries to fix Stacey, like he fixes his motorcycle. Of course, that's impossible. The adult characters here are frustratingly clueless as Stacey exercises increasing control over what she puts in her mouth and suppresses negative emotions, many of which stem from events in her past. This presents the daily back-and-forth arguments between Calvin and Stacey as their relationship is tested, time and again. There are obviously many, many stories like this onein YA lit and in real lifebut what Sharples does so well is capture the turmoil as seen from a loved one's perspective. Pair with Adrienne Maria Vrettos' Skin (2006), a portrait of anorexia told from a brother's point of view.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)