About The Book
Tom Mallalieu always wanted to teach but the students at Ysgol Abaty – a special school in North Wales – didn't always want to learn, until running and a love of the mountains of Snowdonia brought them together.
Buddy one of many dogs who over the years shared Gene's mountain adventures. Buddy was also a Pets As Therapy Dog and went into special schools with Gene to stimulate the children and be a four-legged friend.
Initially overwhelmed by the challenging behaviour of some of his students, Tom realises that building a relationship with them is essential if any teaching and learning is to take place. His own interest in running and his love of the mountains of North Wales are the vehicle he uses to develop strong bonds with his students. Through the running club that he establishes, Tom builds positive relationships with both students and staff.
Various troubled and challenging students appear in the story, with whom we empathise deeply. But we also experience the humour of day-to-day life in a special school. One student stands out in particular – Eve, an excellent and committed runner. Older and quieter than many of her peers, she loves running, is extremely fit and never seems to tire. Tom notices her great potential and soon his academic calendar becomes a running fixtures calendar as he helps Eve and others to develop into remarkable athletes.
The scenery of Snowdonia and North-East Wales forms a dramatic backdrop to the story, and the culture of North Wales is evident through the school’s Eisteddfod, local place names and traditional events like ‘Rolling the Barrel’ in Denbigh.
Sadly, not long after Tom has established an excellent running squad, and Eve has achieved outstanding successes as a mountain marathoner, it’s time to say goodbye to the students and staff at Ysgol Abaty as funding for special needs education is being axed. It’s with a heavy heart that Tom has to say goodbye to a place he has come to love.
Running on the Spectrum is Gene's debut novel and is published by Jelly Bean Books, sister imprint of award-winning independent publisher Candy Jar Books.
Running on the Spectrum is Gene's debut novel and is published by Jelly Bean Books, sister imprint of award-winning independent publisher Candy Jar Books.