Inspirational and upbeat, The Running Dream is a frank look into the feelings of Jessica, a girl with a passion for running, after she loses her leg in an accident. Jessica is tormented by her inability to pursue her one passion in life, until hope appears in the form of a prosthetic leg. But the path there isn't easy either, money, insurance, disappointments all intervene. Ultimately, The Running Dream is a novel about hope for the future and beating the odds to pursue your dream. 
 The best thing about the Running Dream is how its not just an optimistic book about Jessica's struggle, but rather how her struggle manifests in others to help her. There's a ripple effect in kindness; after Jessica can walk again, she helps her wheelchair bound classmate Rosa too. Van Draanen shows the power of people to help one another and how we all can overcome struggles united. That, in my opinion, is just a beautiful theme. Beautiful, absolutely beautiful. But Van Draanen's portrayal and style of storytelling is really what brings the story home. 
 Van Drannen uses effortless, short chapters to describe Jessica's panic and confusion about losing a leg. Her despair, her feelings are all so real, that I felt myself pausing over sections sympathetic to Jessica's battle. The writing is smooth, and undeniably talented; Jessica's distinctive teenage voice full of fears, passions and worries, in full galore, are presented as easily if Van Drannen was Jessica herself. 
 I definitely enjoyed this novel, and it's truly a book about overcoming odds and embracing your dreams. Nothing can stop you if you try hard enough!