Running with Raven: The Amazing Story of One Man, His Passion, and the Community He Inspired

In this vivid biography, Huttenbach (The Boy Is Gone) narrates the story of an unlikely hero: a dedicated runner who has run over 125,000 miles for over four decades on the unforgiving sands of Miami’s South Beach. Robert “Raven” Kraft, a high school dropout and failed songwriter, has not missed his eight-mile trot for a single day since a 1975 New Year’s Day resolution, and his dedication fascinates Huttenbach. Over 2,500 people, ages six to 80, have committed to joining the man’s runs, which Huttenbach narrates with admiration and disbelief. The ragtag Raven runners, according to Huttenbach, are very devoted to their leader, who sometimes runs in downpours and bad thunderstorms despite a series of degenerative back woes that have slowed his stride. Marked by personal tragedies and health problems, Raven’s tale of perseverance, understanding, and courage will inspire anyone. (May)