RUNKUS BLACK

A boy defies expectations while pursuing a coveted soccer trophy for his Jamaican high school in Prince’s middle-grade sequel.

Twelve-year-old Runkus Black’s primary years at Seashore Bay Preparatory are over. He wants to attend his dream high school, Castleton Academy, and join its renowned football (soccer) program, the consistent winner of the coveted Stephenson Cup. However, Runkus ends up having to go to Hillcrest Lagoon High School, where a view of the Caribbean and a comparable curriculum can’t make up for its lack of a football program and incomplete construction. Runkus also learns that money, favoritism, and a grudge against his uncle, a former coach at Castleton, influenced decisions about which students would be admitted there. The novel focuses on Runkus’ long-range plan to win the Stephenson Cup, but it spans his years at Hillcrest from the first form to the fifth (grades 7 to 11); through determination, hard work, academic success, physical training, and strategic planning, he and his friends work to gain the support of their entire school for their endeavor. Formidable challenges to success include Castleton’s arrogant star footballer, Kennedy Edward Stephenson III (known as “KES-III”), and his corrupt, powerful, media-controlling father, “KES-II.” Readers unfamiliar with the first book will likely be at a disadvantage, as Runkus’ previous exploits are referenced but not explained. However, the Jamaican-born author deftly connects the blossoming of Hillcrest (construction ends; spindly blue mahoe and lignum vitae trees grow leaves; a football field and school spirit materialize) to the year-to-year physical changes, character-building, and growing maturity of Runkus and his friends. Soccer fans will undoubtedly relish page after page of minute details of football practice, competitions, and strategy. Readers who don’t follow the sport, though, may tune out, and girls play only minor roles in the story as supportive friends and team cheerleaders. The authentic setting provides details regarding food (bammy and coco bread, curried goat), in-school devotional periods,and the importance of football programs in the country’s schools.

A benign but detailed coming-of-age novel with relatable male teen characters.