Get ready for the race of your life...

This is what it feels like when I'm running. When I'm running fast, I feel free.

12-year-old Lili is determined to defeat her arch rival in front of the Queen during her school's anniversary celebrations.

Adopted from China as a baby, Lili also has personal challenges to overcome, but when her training is thrown into chaos by events outside her control, she realises that she must choose between family and the race of her life.

Meanwhile in 1944, Eric Liddell, hero of the 1924 Olympics, finds himself in a war zone. Separated from his family, he is getting ready to run his final race in a prison camp in China when his lifelong principles are challenged by the imprisoned children he is trying to help...

Praise for The Race

'Not your typical happily ever after, Roy has written a wonderfully relatable and inclusive tale, where all are welcome, and the beauty of sport brings everyone together in the end. There are life lessons to be learned in this inspiring story with friendship at its heart.'

SHAUNAGH BROWN
International Rugby Player and Former Commonwealth Games Athlete

About the Author

Roy lives with his wife, two daughters, two dogs, two cats, one rabbit, one tortoise, and a few fish. When he isn't spending time with his family, writing books, or looking after the menagerie, Roy is a teacher and charity worker.

Peachey's first novel for adults, Between Darkness and Light, the story of a translator with the Chinese Labour Corps during World War I, was published in 2019 by Eyrie Press. He is also the author of three non-fiction books: Out of the Classroom and Into the World; 50 Books for Life; and Did Jesus Go To School?

roypeachey.com
@roy_peachey

Reviews

'An inspiring, inclusive story with sport at its heart.' SHAUNAGH BROWN

'An original, immensely readable take on the Eric Liddell story for the 21st century.' SALLY MAGNUSSON

'A very interesting, relatable and enjoyable read that brings the memory of Eric Liddell to life.' ALLAN WELLS MBE

'Written with a warm sense of inclusion and friendship, The Race is both an inspiration and an emotional journey into the lives of two runners, one fictional and one very real, but both with battles to fight and problems to solve.' LANCASHIRE POST

'This book is built around the foundations of sport what it really teaches children is about family, the meaning of home and of the beauty and validity of dual identity.' THE NATIONAL

'An emotional story that follows two narratives set in two different decades, with the main focus being schoolgirl Lili as she prepares for the race of her life. Recommended for lovers of Michael Morpurgo, this book will tug at your heartstrings as Lili tugs at the knot of her shoelaces.' BIG ISSUE NORTH

'The Race is an incredibly inspirational and heart-warming dual narrative about racing, family and dedication which kept me completely engrossed throughout. An absolute winner!' BOOK CRAIC

'The Race is an inspiring and multi-layered read that both celebrates sport and assesses it. It gets off to a sprint start, but as the two runners chase their bumpy destinies, it evolves into an engrossing distance event, in which they face hurdles and select strategies, and ultimately remind us that determination, compassion and love have greater value than glory.' ROARING READS

'Roy Peachey has written a fantastic dual narrative story of survival against all odds.' MY BOOK CORNER

'A moving tale of what is important - what really is important. About the decisions we make and why we make them. A book everyone should read. Buy it if you race. Buy it, if you play rugby. Buy it anyway.' SUE CHAMBERS, WATERSTONES

'The Race is a fabulous tale; Lili's story interwoven with Eric Liddell's. I loved every minute of this fairly short book... It's this kind of surprise find that makes reading such a great pleasure.' THE BOOKWITCH

'...could spark discussions about resilience, race and identity, research, the Olympics, history, family and personal priorities. Sure to offer an extra special appeal this year in the run-up to the Olympic Games.'
BOOKS FOR TOPICS

Book Information
ISBN 9781911279839
Author Roy Peachey
Format Paperback
Page Count 200
Imprint Pokey Hat
Publisher Cranachan Publishing Limited
Weight(grams) 161g
Dimensions(mm) 195mm * 130mm * 15mm