Book Review: The Fastest Boy in The World, Elizabeth Laird

Review by Edward Lowe. The Fastest Boy in the World is available in The Running Bookshop here. 

Elizabeth Laird’s The Fastest Boy in the World is an inspiring and heartfelt novel that captures the vibrant culture of Ethiopia while telling the story of one boy’s journey to fulfill his dreams of running.

Centered around Solomon, an eleven-year-old boy who dreams of becoming a runner like his heroes, the book explores family, perseverance, and the power of ambition. While Solomon’s story is fictional, it is deeply rooted in the real-life experiences Laird gathered during her travels to Ethiopia, making the book a unique blend of cultural insight and adventure that is written in an engaging way for younger readers.

One of the most powerful aspects of The Fastest Boy in the World is the setting. Laird, who has traveled extensively in Ethiopia, draws on her first-hand experiences to bring the Ethiopian landscape and culture vividly to life, and drawing comparisons between the traditional country life of Solomon compared to the city-life of Kebede.

Laird weaves elements of Ethiopian culture, language, and geography into the story, giving readers a sense of the country’s beauty and the challenges faced by its people. For children, this book offers a window into a culture that may be very different from their own, helping them to develop a sense of global awareness and empathy.

The plot follows Solomon as he travels from his small village to the capital city of Addis Ababa with his grandfather. It is a journey of over 20 miles, and for Solomon, it feels like both a physical and emotional marathon. The journey itself symbolizes a rite of passage, as Solomon encounters the responsibilities and difficulties of growing up. Along the way, he learns of his family’s deep connection to Ethiopia’s history and about the incredible determination of his grandfather, a former marathon runner himself. Solomon’s love for running serves as a metaphor for his aspirations and the hurdles he must overcome, both literally and figuratively.

Children will take away several valuable lessons from Solomon’s story. First, they learn about resilience and perseverance. Solomon faces multiple challenges along the way, from physical exhaustion to family secrets, yet he persists. This determination to achieve his dream, even when the odds seem stacked against him, is a powerful message for young readers about the importance of setting goals and working hard to achieve them. They’ll also learn about the strength that comes from family, especially the wisdom and courage that elders can pass down to younger generations.

Laird’s writing style is both accessible and engaging, making The Fastest Boy in the World suitable for young readers around ages 8–12. The prose is straightforward yet evocative, drawing children into Solomon’s world with vivid descriptions and a deep sense of place. Her ability to balance action with introspection keeps readers invested in Solomon’s journey while also giving them space to reflect on his experiences.

In conclusion, The Fastest Boy in the World is a powerful running story about ambition, identity, and the importance of family. Through Solomon’s eyes, readers are introduced to Ethiopia’s culture and the timeless values of perseverance and pride. Elizabeth Laird’s authentic portrayal of Ethiopia and her heartfelt storytelling make this novel both educational and entertaining, leaving a lasting impact on young readers long after they finish the final page.

Buy The Fastest Boy in the World.