High School Runner effectively follows the long-held tradition of coming-of-age novels, but with some twists. It tells the story of Sherman Leopold Kindle, or K1, a ninth grader beginning his high school journey as an initially apprehensive member of the cross-country track team. Over the course of the season, he learns to rise to the challenge of the work, self-discipline, teamwork, and most importantly, empathy. His often hilarious, sometimes pathetic, and ultimately pitiful coach mentors all of the runners - veteran or rookie, braggart or slacker, star or dud - in less-than-conventional fashion. As his life falls completely apart - both personal and professional - Coach Viddstein molds his team and inspires them to their greatest success. With splendid details and incisive, humorous writing, Bill Kenley brings High School Runner to the finish line.