Discover the Best Running Away Books in the 2024 Updated Edition

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The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating novel about a family on the run, seeking refuge in the wilds of Alaska. Set in the 1970s, the story follows the Allbright family as they escape their troubled past and attempt to start anew in the remote wilderness. As they struggle to survive the harsh Alaskan winters, they must also navigate the complexities of their own relationships and confront the demons that have been chasing them. With breathtaking descriptions of the Alaskan landscape and a gripping tale of survival, this book about running away will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Kristin Hannah’s powerful storytelling and compelling characters make The Great Alone a must-read for anyone seeking an escape into a world of adventure and emotional turmoil.

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Educated

by Tara Westover

Educated by Tara Westover is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s extraordinary journey of self-discovery and resilience. Born into a strict and isolated family in rural Idaho, Tara Westover had little access to formal education. Determined to break free from her upbringing, she embarks on a remarkable journey of self-education, eventually earning a PhD from Cambridge University. With vivid and poignant storytelling, Westover chronicles her struggles and triumphs as she grapples with her family’s beliefs and her own pursuit of knowledge. This running away book is a powerful testament to the human spirit and the transformative power of education. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking an inspiring and thought-provoking story of overcoming adversity and finding one’s own path.

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The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a gripping and powerful novel that follows the harrowing journey of a young slave named Cora as she escapes from a Georgia plantation. The book explores the brutal realities of slavery and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Whitehead reimagines the Underground Railroad as a literal network of secret tunnels and trains, adding a fantastical element to this historical fiction. With vivid prose and compelling characters, the novel delves into the complexities of freedom, identity, and the pursuit of a better life. This is not just a book about running away; it is a profound exploration of the human desire for liberation and the sacrifices made to achieve it. The Underground Railroad is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and impactful story about the quest for freedom.

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The Girl Who Smiled Beads

by Clemantine Wamariya and Elizabeth Weil

The Girl Who Smiled Beads is a poignant memoir by Clemantine Wamariya, co-written with Elizabeth Weil, that tells the powerful story of survival, resilience, and the search for identity. The book follows Clemantine’s journey as a young girl fleeing war-torn Rwanda, experiencing displacement, and seeking refuge in various countries. The narrative is a gripping portrayal of the human spirit and the lasting impact of trauma, as well as the strength and courage required to rebuild a life after fleeing danger. Through vivid storytelling and raw emotion, Wamariya and Weil offer a stirring account of resilience and hope in the face of unimaginable adversity. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the human experience and the indomitable nature of the human spirit.

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The Road

by Cormac McCarthy

The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a gripping and haunting novel about a father and son’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world. Set in a desolate landscape, the book follows their harrowing escape from cannibalistic gangs and their struggle to survive in a world devoid of hope. As they traverse the barren terrain, they face constant danger and must rely on their wits and each other to stay alive. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the lengths a parent will go to protect their child. With its stark prose and unflinching portrayal of a world in chaos, The Road is a compelling and thought-provoking running away book that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the final page.

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The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and timely young adult novel that delves into the complex issues of race, identity, and social justice. The story follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a police officer. As Starr grapples with the trauma of the event, she must navigate the divide between her predominantly black neighborhood and the elite prep school she attends. The novel explores themes of activism, finding one’s voice, and the impact of systemic racism on communities. With its compelling storytelling and authentic portrayal of the challenges facing young people of color, The Hate U Give is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and relevant narrative.

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The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir about a tumultuous and unconventional childhood. Walls recounts her upbringing with eccentric and often neglectful parents, who had a strong aversion to traditional living and often led their family on a nomadic lifestyle. Throughout the book, Walls vividly describes the hardships and adventures she and her siblings faced while constantly on the move, painting a poignant picture of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The memoir delves into themes of poverty, survival, and the unbreakable bond between family members. The Glass Castle is a powerful and thought-provoking book about running away, resilience, and the enduring impact of childhood experiences.

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The Goldfinch

by Donna Tartt

The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating and gripping novel that follows the life of Theo Decker, a young boy who becomes entangled in a world of art theft and deception after a tragic event changes the course of his life. This coming-of-age story is a compelling exploration of loss, love, and the lengths we will go to in order to find a sense of belonging. As Theo navigates the complexities of his new reality, readers are taken on a journey through the underbelly of the art world, filled with suspense and intrigue. With beautifully crafted prose and intricate character development, The Goldfinch is a mesmerizing tale of survival and self-discovery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. This running away book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a gripping and thought-provoking narrative.

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The Catcher in the Rye

by J.D. Salinger

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who rebels against the adult world. Told in first person, the novel captures Holden’s journey as he navigates through the complexities of adolescence, alienation, and identity. The book delves into themes of innocence, alienation, and the struggles of growing up. Holden’s character is relatable to many readers as he grapples with the challenges of finding his place in the world. The novel has been both acclaimed and controversial for its exploration of teenage angst and rebellion. Overall, The Catcher in the Rye is a timeless and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with readers, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a running away book.

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The Kite Runner

by Khaled Hosseini

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a powerful and emotionally gripping novel that delves into the complex relationships between friends, family, and the haunting effects of betrayal and redemption. Set in Afghanistan, the story follows the protagonist, Amir, as he navigates the tumultuous events of his childhood and the repercussions that follow into his adult life. The novel explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the desire for atonement. It’s a heart-wrenching and poignant tale of friendship and betrayal, and the lengths one will go to seek redemption from their past mistakes. The Kite Runner is a compelling and thought-provoking book about running away from the past and the consequences that come with it.

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The Book Thief

by Markus Zusak

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a captivating historical novel set in Nazi Germany. The story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living with her foster family, as she discovers the power of words and books during a time of great turmoil and fear. Throughout the book, Liesel learns to navigate the complexities of human nature while grappling with loss, love, and the harsh realities of war. As she grows and matures, she becomes a book thief, stealing books in an effort to escape from the harsh realities of her world. This poignant and gripping tale explores themes of resilience, the importance of storytelling, and the bravery of those who dare to defy the odds. The Book Thief is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking read that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

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The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a classic American novel written by Mark Twain. It follows the story of Huck, a young boy who embarks on a daring journey down the Mississippi River with an escaped slave named Jim. This iconic novel is widely recognized for its exploration of themes such as racism, freedom, and the complexities of morality. The book is essentially a running away book, as Huck and Jim are constantly fleeing from various dangers and obstacles. Twain’s masterful storytelling and vivid characters make this a timeless tale that continues to captivate readers of all ages. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a thought-provoking and entertaining book about running away that offers a glimpse into the heart of America during a tumultuous time in history.

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The Grapes of Wrath

by John Steinbeck

The Grapes of Wrath is a powerful novel by John Steinbeck that tells the story of the Joad family, who are forced to leave their Oklahoma farm during the Dust Bowl and Great Depression. The family embarks on a journey to California in search of a better life, but they encounter numerous hardships and injustices along the way. The novel vividly depicts the struggles of the working class during this turbulent period in American history, and it explores themes of poverty, social injustice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Steinbeck’s poignant and evocative prose brings the plight of the Joad family to life, making The Grapes of Wrath a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. This is a book about running away, seeking a better life, and the challenges encountered along the way.

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The Scarlet Letter

by Nathaniel Hawthorne

The Scarlet Letter is a classic novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne that delves into the consequences of secrets, guilt, and the societal stigma of sin. Set in 17th century Puritan Massachusetts, the story follows Hester Prynne, who is publicly shamed and forced to wear a scarlet letter ‘A’ for adultery after giving birth to a daughter out of wedlock. As Hester grapples with her shame, the novel explores themes of love, redemption, and the consequences of running away from one’s past. The Scarlet Letter is a captivating exploration of human nature, moral dilemmas, and the enduring power of love, making it a timeless and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in a book about running away from the past.

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The Outsiders

by S.E. Hinton

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the lives of two rival teenage gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, in 1960s Oklahoma. The story is told through the eyes of Ponyboy Curtis, a young Greaser who struggles with societal stereotypes and the harsh realities of his world. As the tension between the two groups escalates, Ponyboy and his friends navigate themes of friendship, loyalty, and the search for identity in a world that seems to be stacked against them. This timeless novel delves into the complexities of adolescence, the pressures of conformity, and the desire for independence, making it a compelling ‘running away book’ that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.

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The Secret Life of Bees

by Sue Monk Kidd

The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd is a captivating novel about a young girl’s journey of self-discovery and resilience. Set in the 1960s, the story follows Lily Owens as she escapes her troubled home life and sets out on a quest for truth and belonging. This poignant coming-of-age tale is a compelling book about running away, as Lily flees her abusive father and seeks refuge with a trio of beekeeping sisters. As she immerses herself in their world and learns the art of beekeeping, Lily uncovers family secrets and finds solace in unexpected places. With themes of love, forgiveness, and empowerment, The Secret Life of Bees is a heartwarming and inspiring running away book that will resonate with readers of all ages.

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The Color Purple

by Alice Walker

The Color Purple by Alice Walker tells the powerful and heart-wrenching story of Celie, a young African American woman who endures abuse and oppression in the early 20th century South. Through a series of letters, Celie shares her experiences with her sister Nettie and God, providing a raw and intimate look into her life. The novel explores themes of resilience, sisterhood, and the pursuit of freedom in the face of adversity. As Celie navigates her tumultuous relationships and discovers her own strength, the novel ultimately becomes a powerful narrative of empowerment and self-discovery. The Color Purple is a profound and moving exploration of the human spirit, making it a timeless must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of marginalized individuals.

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The Alchemist

by Paulo Coelho

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is an enchanting tale about following one’s dreams and the journey of self-discovery. Set in Andalusia, Spain, the story follows Santiago, a shepherd boy, who embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure in Egypt. Along the way, he encounters various characters and experiences that shape his understanding of the world and his own desires. The novel explores themes of destiny, personal legend, and the universal language of the soul. With its timeless wisdom and captivating storytelling, The Alchemist has inspired readers around the world to pursue their dreams and listen to the whispers of their hearts. It’s not just a book about running away, but a profound exploration of the human spirit and the pursuit of one’s true purpose.

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The Little Prince

by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The Little Prince is a beloved classic that tells the story of a young prince who travels from planet to planet, meeting various unique characters and learning important life lessons along the way. The book is not just a simple children’s story, but a profound and philosophical tale about the nature of love, friendship, and the human experience. It is a book about running away from the ordinary and seeking adventure, but also about finding one’s way back home. Through its charming narrative and whimsical illustrations, The Little Prince captures the imagination of readers of all ages and continues to inspire and touch the hearts of millions around the world.

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The Hobbit

by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is persuaded to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. This classic tale is filled with adventure, danger, and the discovery of courage within oneself. As Bilbo and the dwarves encounter trolls, goblins, and other mythical creatures, they must rely on their wits and bravery to survive. The story is a thrilling ‘running away book’ as the characters flee from perilous situations and face numerous obstacles along the way. With its rich world-building and memorable characters, The Hobbit is a timeless adventure that will captivate readers of all ages.