The Runaways (book)

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This article is about the 1987 novel. For other uses, see Runaway.

The Runaways is a 1987 novel written by Ruth Thomas about two children, Julia Winter and Nathan Browne, who run away from their individual homes once their teachers and parents find out that they have money that does not belong to them.

[edit] Plot summary

Spoiler warning: Plot and/or ending details follow.

The story generally follows their struggle to avoid being found. They adopt false names and pretend to be adopted brother and sister. They use their money they have taken to travel around and inadvertently assume unrecognisable appearances. After Nathan loses his half of the money and Julia hurts her leg and is unable to walk they give themselves up. The story ends the moment they are found so the consequences of them running away are left to the readers' imagination.

[edit] Awards and nominations

Winner of the Guardian Children's Fiction Award 1988, it drew critical acclaim, with The Guardian declaring it "A first rate novel". It is set in the East End of London in the 1980's, but throughout the book the children travel to places including Brighton and Exmoor.