Review of Racing the Wild

[Tejas Koli]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Racing the Wild" by Rosanna Andrea Feeken.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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"Racing the Wild" by Rosanna Andrea Feeken tells the compelling story of Chris Franklin, a boy navigating the complexities of friendship and family while living in the intense world of horse racing. Those familiar with Feeken’s astute character studies will find her insights into Chris’s psyche to be keenly observed.

The novel deftly opens 'in medias res', as Chris starts at a new school, having been expelled from his previous one due to bullying. Readers quickly sense Chris’s wariness and loneliness. Into this vulnerability come four boys—Ben, Malik, Ethan, and Aakesh—who offer friendship. Their developing bond forms the emotional core of the narrative. Yet Chris’s home life, caring for racehorses owned by his strict father, leaves little time for fun. Feeken immerses readers in this gritty world through visceral details.

Feeken also complicates Chris’s journey with family tensions. His twin brothers, Cody and Cam, seem intent on making Chris’s life miserable. Their subtle cruelties leave scars. Meanwhile, Chris’s driven father demands excellence yet shows little compassion. This complex family dynamic feels authentic in its messiness, and there are hints of darker secrets yet to be revealed.

The editing of the book is well done, with no grammatical errors, ensuring a seamless read. While the plot moves at an easy pace, allowing characters to unfold organically, Feeken ratchets up tension at key intervals. Conflicts like a bullying confrontation or a dangerous horse altercation keep the pages turning. Subplots involving the budding romance of Chris’s friends and the cutthroat racing world add flavor. I found no flaws in my reading. There are no negative aspects of the book that I disagreed with or disliked.

Overall, Feeken's gift for nuanced characterization and deft storytelling shines in this family drama. Readers will find themselves deeply invested in Chris's coming-of-age journey. "Racing the Wild" explores universal themes of belonging, independence, and confronting one's past in a memorable, heartfelt tale. Feeken's impressive debut marks the arrival of a writer to watch. I would rate it 5 out of 5.

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Racing the Wild
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