Are you a fan of stories about adventure and independence? If so, you’ll love our list of the 20 best books about running away from home. These captivating tales explore the thrill and challenges of breaking free from the familiar and striking out on one’s own. Whether you’re looking for fiction or non-fiction, these books on running away from home are sure to ignite your sense of wanderlust and leave you feeling inspired.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a captivating book about escaping the confines of home and finding refuge in the wild. Set in the untamed wilderness of Alaska, this novel follows the Allbright family as they seek a fresh start, running away from their troubled past. The story delves into the complexities of family dynamics, resilience, and the healing power of nature. As they navigate the harsh Alaskan terrain, the Allbrights experience both the beauty and brutality of their new surroundings, testing their limits and pushing them to confront their inner demons. With vivid descriptions and compelling characters, this book about escaping the past and finding oneself is a gripping and emotional journey that will resonate with readers long after they’ve turned the final page.
Educated by Tara Westover is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s extraordinary journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Raised in a strict and isolated household in rural Idaho, Tara’s upbringing was deeply influenced by her father’s extreme beliefs and refusal to conform to societal norms. As she grapples with her family’s unconventional lifestyle and limited access to formal education, Tara embarks on a remarkable journey of self-education and personal growth. Her resilience and determination to break free from the constraints of her upbringing are truly inspiring. This powerful memoir is a compelling exploration of family dynamics, the pursuit of knowledge, and the transformative power of education. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and deeply moving story of overcoming adversity and finding one’s own path in life.
The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt is a captivating novel that follows the story 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 book on running away from home takes readers on a gripping journey as Theo navigates through the complexities of loss, love, and the pursuit of identity. Tartt’s rich and detailed storytelling immerses readers in a world of art, beauty, and betrayal, as Theo grapples with the consequences of his choices while carrying the weight of a stolen painting, The Goldfinch, with him. This book about running away from home is a compelling exploration of the human experience, blending mystery, suspense, and coming-of-age elements to create an unforgettable literary masterpiece.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman is a captivating and heartwarming novel that follows the life of the quirky and socially awkward Eleanor Oliphant. Living a solitary existence and sticking to a strict routine, Eleanor’s life takes an unexpected turn when she develops a crush on a musician and befriends a colleague. As she navigates the complexities of human connection and confronts her traumatic past, Eleanor learns to open herself up to the possibility of happiness and healing. This poignant and uplifting story explores themes of loneliness, resilience, and the power of friendship. With its delightful blend of humor and tenderness, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and touching tale of self-discovery and redemption.
The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a gripping novel about a young slave named Cora who embarks on a perilous journey to freedom. This powerful book on running away from home vividly captures the brutality and inhumanity of slavery as Cora escapes from a Georgia plantation and travels through the Underground Railroad—a secret network of safe houses and hidden routes. Whitehead’s masterful storytelling takes readers on a harrowing adventure, exploring the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through Cora’s journey, the novel delves into themes of courage, hope, and the pursuit of liberty. This book about running away from home is a compelling and thought-provoking read that sheds light on a dark chapter of American history, and the indomitable spirit of those who sought freedom at any cost.
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the lives of three women intertwined by betrayal, secrets, and deception. The story revolves around Rachel, an alcoholic who takes the same train every day and becomes fixated on a couple she sees from the window. When the woman goes missing, Rachel becomes entangled in the investigation, uncovering dark truths about the people she thought she knew. As the suspense builds, the novel delves into themes of obsession, infidelity, and the repercussions of running away from home. Hawkins weaves a complex narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, questioning the reliability of the narrators and the motivations behind their actions. This runaway from home book is a thrilling, page-turning read that will leave you guessing until the very end.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger is a classic coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Holden Caulfield, a disenchanted teenager who embarks on a journey of self-discovery in New York City. The book delves into the themes of teenage angst, alienation, and rebellion, as Holden grapples with the pressures of conformity and the adult world. As he navigates through various encounters and experiences, readers are taken on a poignant and introspective journey through the mind of a young man on the brink of adulthood. The novel has been praised for its raw and honest portrayal of adolescence, making it a timeless and relatable read for anyone who has ever felt the need to escape from the confines of societal expectations. This is a book about running away from home and finding oneself in the process.
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a captivating memoir that delves into the author’s tumultuous and unconventional childhood. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest, the story follows Walls and her three siblings as they navigate their dysfunctional family life, characterized by poverty, neglect, and a constant sense of instability. Walls vividly recounts her experiences growing up with eccentric and nonconformist parents who often prioritized their own desires over their children’s well-being. The book is a poignant exploration of resilience, determination, and the enduring bond between siblings, as they strive to overcome the challenges of their upbringing. The Glass Castle is a compelling and unforgettable narrative that sheds light on the complexities of family dynamics and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.
The Road by Cormac McCarthy is a haunting and powerful novel that tells the story of a father and son’s journey through a post-apocalyptic world. The pair traverse a desolate landscape, facing danger and hardship as they struggle to survive. This gripping tale is a book about running away from home, as the father and son are on the run from the dangers that lurk in the world around them. McCarthy’s stark and unflinching prose draws readers into a world of despair and hope, as the two characters search for safety and a new home. The Road is a running away from home book that explores the bond between parent and child, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a captivating tale set in Nazi Germany, following the life of a young girl named Liesel as she discovers the power of words and literature. The story unfolds through the eyes of Death, who narrates Liesel’s journey as she navigates the horrors of war, the power of friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit. Amidst the chaos and devastation, Liesel finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others, ultimately discovering the transformative power of storytelling. This poignant and beautifully written novel explores themes of love, loss, and the human capacity for both cruelty and kindness. The Book Thief is a remarkable and heart-wrenching story that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the final page.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a compelling novel that delves into the complex relationship between two childhood friends, Amir and Hassan, set against the backdrop of Afghanistan’s turbulent history. The story unfolds as Amir grapples with guilt and redemption after betraying Hassan, his loyal friend and servant. Through the narrative, readers are transported to a world of betrayal, forgiveness, and the enduring power of friendship. The novel also explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the search for personal identity against the backdrop of a war-torn country. The Kite Runner is a poignant and powerful exploration of the human experience and the lasting impact of our choices. This book is a riveting tale about seeking forgiveness and finding redemption.
The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, written by Mark Twain, is a classic novel about a young boy’s journey of self-discovery and freedom. The story follows Huck Finn, a rebellious and adventurous boy, who decides to embark on a daring escape from his abusive father and the constraints of society. This iconic coming-of-age tale is filled with excitement, humor, and thought-provoking themes as Huck navigates the Mississippi River with his friend Jim, a runaway slave. The novel explores the complexities of morality, friendship, and the pursuit of liberty in a racially divided America. Twain’s vivid storytelling and colorful characters take readers on a captivating journey through the American South, making The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn a timeless and compelling book about running away from home.
The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a captivating coming-of-age novel that delves into the lives of two rival teenage gangs, the Greasers and the Socs, in 1960s Oklahoma. The story follows Ponyboy Curtis, a young Greaser who struggles with the social divide and the conflict between the two groups. When Ponyboy’s friend Johnny kills a Soc in self-defense, their lives spiral out of control as they go on the run to avoid the authorities. As they navigate the harsh realities of their world, they form unexpected bonds and discover the true meaning of family and friendship. This timeless classic explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the universal desire for belonging. It’s a poignant and compelling book about running away from home that will resonate with readers of all ages.
The Secret Life of Bees is a captivating novel about a young girl named Lily Owens who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Set in the 1960s, the story follows Lily as she runs away from her troubled home life in search of the truth about her mother’s past. Along the way, she finds refuge with three eccentric beekeeping sisters who teach her about love, forgiveness, and the power of female friendship. As Lily delves into the secrets of her mother’s past, she uncovers a deeper understanding of herself and the world around her. This heartwarming and poignant coming-of-age story is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling book about escaping a difficult situation and finding a sense of belonging.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Charlie, a shy and introspective teenager struggling with the loss of his best friend and the challenges of high school. Through a series of letters to an anonymous friend, Charlie navigates the complexities of adolescence, friendship, love, and mental health. The novel delves into themes of identity, trauma, and the search for belonging, making it a poignant and relatable read for young adults and adults alike. With its raw and honest portrayal of the teenage experience, this book on running away from home has captivated readers with its emotional depth and authenticity.
The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold is a haunting and emotional novel that explores the aftermath of a young girl’s murder. Susie Salmon, the protagonist, narrates the story from the afterlife as she watches over her family and friends. The novel delves into themes of grief, healing, and the impact of violence on a community. It is a book about a young girl who is tragically taken from her family, and the subsequent struggle to come to terms with her death. As her loved ones navigate their grief, Susie learns to let go and find peace in the afterlife. The Lovely Bones is a powerful and gripping story that will stay with readers long after they have turned the last page.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon is a captivating novel that follows the journey of a young boy with behavioral difficulties as he sets out to solve the mystery of a neighbor’s dog’s murder. The story is told through the unique perspective of the protagonist, Christopher, who has a remarkable talent for mathematics but struggles with social interactions. As he delves into the investigation, Christopher uncovers family secrets and learns to navigate the complexities of the world around him. This book is not just about solving a mystery, but also about self-discovery and overcoming obstacles. It’s a thought-provoking and heartwarming tale of resilience and determination, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling coming-of-age story.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho is a captivating tale of adventure and self-discovery. Set in Andalusia, Spain, it follows the journey of a young shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a quest to find a hidden treasure in the Egyptian pyramids. Along the way, he encounters various characters who impart wisdom and guidance, leading him to uncover the true desires of his heart. This profound and thought-provoking novel explores themes of destiny, personal legend, and the importance of listening to one’s intuition. With its enchanting storytelling and philosophical insights, The Alchemist is a timeless classic that inspires readers to pursue their dreams and embrace the journey of self-discovery. It’s a book about running away from home in search of one’s destiny.
The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, is a gripping dystopian novel set in the nation of Panem, where the Capitol holds an annual event called the Hunger Games. The story follows Katniss Everdeen, a brave and resourceful young woman who volunteers to take her sister’s place in the deadly competition. Forced to fight for her life against other tributes from the 12 districts, Katniss navigates the treacherous arena while struggling with her own moral compass. As she battles for survival, Katniss becomes a symbol of hope for the oppressed citizens of Panem, sparking a rebellion against the oppressive Capitol. This thrilling book about running away from home is packed with action, suspense, and thought-provoking themes, making it a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction.
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is a classic adventure novel that follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is quite content with his peaceful life until a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf show up at his door. They convince Bilbo to join them on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. The story is filled with thrilling escapades, narrow escapes, and encounters with magical creatures. It’s a tale of bravery, friendship, and self-discovery as Bilbo ventures out of his comfort zone and discovers his own courage and resourcefulness. This beloved fantasy novel is a timeless tale of a ‘book about running away from home’ and embarking on a grand adventure, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good ‘running away from home book’.
Conclusion
Running Away From Home is a common theme in literature, and these 20 best books about running away from home offer a diverse and compelling exploration of this experience. From classic tales to contemporary stories, these books delve into the complex emotions and motivations behind the decision to leave home. Whether you’re looking for a heart-wrenching coming-of-age story or a thrilling adventure, these books have something for everyone. So, grab a copy of one of these captivating reads and immerse yourself in the world of runaway protagonists.
Which Running Away From Home book is best?
The best book on Running Away From Home can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Running Away From Home?
For those looking to learn about Running Away From Home, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Running Away From Home are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Running Away From Home books of all time?
Choosing the best Running Away From Home books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
