Illegal, The

This award-winning Canadian novel centers on a young runner from fictional Zantoroland who must flee for his life after a change of political power and his journalist father's death. He goes to Freedom State, a wealthy island nation where the government is deporting refugees, where he keeps running, waiting for a chance at the big race, all the while becoming involved with a variety of characters from across the social spectrum. Addresses topics of poverty, racism, status, dictatorship, and refugees. Suitable as a class, individual, or lit circle novel study in grades 10-12; useful for critical thinking and class discussions, especially around present day events.