"This is the first running book I've read that I think, wow this is like peeking into my brain and my way of thinking. I will be reading it again and again."
CHRIS SOLINSKY, Former American Record Holder - 10,000 m (26:59.60)
Nobody wants him here anyway, but he can't quit.
Quitting isn't in his DNA.
In 2083, Benjamin Brandt is among the millions of "slummers" who are relegated to poverty and struggle on the outskirts of society. As a minority growing up in the gritty underbelly of Cleveland's Industrial Valley, Ben sees the way genetically designed "elites" live only from a distance: from the shadows of public spaces people like him are forbidden to use, and on TV, where he watches the enhanced athletes compete at an extraordinary level. For years, a national track championship has inspired Ben to ferociously cultivate his own talent as a runner.
As Ben logs miles through the potholed, darkened streets of his community, an idea takes hold of him that could turn his highly stratified society upside down. He isn't prepared to lead a revolution; however, he is prepared to run like a slummer with nothing to lose.
About the Author :
Geoffrey Simpson was born and raised in Avon Lake, Ohio, just outside Cleveland. He attended Avon Lake High School and competed in the state cross country and track & field championships on multiple occasions. At Kent State he graduated from the School of Technology and was a member of the Track & Field and Cross Country programs. His primary events were the 5,000 meters (14:57) and 10,000 meters (31:14). After graduating from Kent State University, he built a career in program management throughout various technology companies and is now a global PMO manager. His family of two boys, Jonathan and Henry, and his beloved wife Lili, impassion his craving for adventure. An adventurous spirit which is passed down to his sons. Now living with his family in Minden, Germany, in the pre-dawn hours, he is an author. Geoffrey is the author of the middle-school aged adventure-mystery series, The Three Hares, and the near-future, speculative fiction novel, The Slummer.
Review :
"This is the first running book I've read that I think, wow this is like peeking into my brain and my way of thinking. I will be reading it again and again."
CHRIS SOLINSKY, Former American Record Holder - 10,000 m (26:59.60)
"Lace up for a powerful story of commitment, loss, aspiration and an unlikely challenger of systematic oppression."
ANDY SCHMITZ, US Olympic Coach - Triathlon
"The Slummer's inspiring story pits the indomitable spirit of a runner against economic disparity and genetic engineering in a believable, dystopian tomorrow."
JONATHAN BEVERLY, Editor in Chief - PodiumRunner
"I couldn't help but lace up my shoes and go for a run."
COLORADO RUNNER Magazine
"Well written, there is a message of oppression, hope and determination. Is this where we are headed in spite of all the talk of affirmative action? Thought-provoking and one of those reads that leaves a mark."
TOME TENDER Book Blog
