School Library Journal, “Best Books 2023”

Azari’s life has been split in two and the halves are as different as lemons and mangoes. Running links the two
parts of her life: sometimes when she runs it is because she wants to, because she feels strong and free. But
sometimes it is because she has no other choice.

When Azari and her mother flee for their lives to Ireland they are put in a Direct Provision Centre. They must
share a room with a stranger, eat food they don’t know the name of and answer intrusive questions from authorities.

Azari’s life has secrets; she must tell them so she can stop running and live a life where she can make her own
decisions.

"

"It is important – but it is also a skilfully structured novel."

"

"Jane Mitchell's Run for Your Life stands out from this year. It is a well researched and hugely empathetic novel ... Deft and lyrical."

"

"Mitchell researched this novel meticulously and portrays life in direct provision starkly and honestly."

"

"Showing the fragile yet resilient humanity at the heart of refugee journeys ... Run For Your Life is a book which should make us all reflect on how we in more peaceful, prosperous and safe countries receive those seeking protection.”

"

"A gripping read."

"

"A powerful story featuring resourceful women bravely making their way toward safety and hope."

"

"A gripping, educational page-turner about a pressing issue that affects millions worldwide."

"

"A compassionate look at the asylum seeker system in Ireland through the eyes of a teen girl." 

"

"Very much a book for our time ... It's one of those books that grabs your heart."

"

"Stirring, honest and deeply compassionate."

"

"A hard-hitting new novel."

"

"A courageous story of having and fulfilling a dream."

"

“I was marking quotes as I went along, but I ended up with so many I couldn't choose. There are so many moments in this story that absolutely shine.”

"

"Stop everything and read this right now ... Extraordinary, moving, consuming and very, very real. I couldn’t put it down."

"

"I started it and finished it in one sitting."

"

"This would be a great classroom read."

"

 'Wonderful to read.'

"

"This book was sad but beautiful. A story of a refugee girl and her mother, the chapters bounce back and forth from the present, as they apply for protection in Ireland and try to figure out life, to the past, as we learn about their life back home and what eventually made them flee. The saddest section shook me. It was hard to read ... It was wonderful to read though and I recommend it."