“Wow! I will be reading it again and again.” CHRIS SOLINSKY, Former US Record Holder - 10km (26:59.60)
“I couldn't help but lace up my shoes and go for a run.” COLORADO RUNNER Magazine
“One of those reads that leaves a mark.” TOME TENDER Book Blog
“Lace up for a powerful story of commitment, loss, aspiration and an unlikely challenger of systematic oppression.” ANDY SCHMITZ, 3x 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.” PODIUM RUNNER Magazine
THE SLUMMER: Quarters Till Death
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.