Run For Your Life

"Run for Your Life ... confronts its central theme, the Mafia, head on. Violence is always present, in a way that suggests contemporary Sicily still is tied to its ancient demons.... This is a true coming-of-age novel in which violence is not masked behind a metaphor…. The book is also distinguished by its narrative structure: the suspense keeps readers glued to the page from beginning to end, and throughout stimulates their powers of judgment."

* Prix Sorcières Judges’ Citation—Best Novel for Teens *

“A brilliantly executed novel that older readers won’t be able to put down, Run for Your Life is inspired by real-life Mafia encounters by leading Italian author, Silvana Gandolfi. Intelligent, heart-pounding and thought-provoking, this novel is a must-read.”

-- Kendal A. Rautzhan * Times Herald *

“I loved Run For Your Life. Silvana Gandolfi tackles the difficult topic of how the mafia affects everyday lives and depicts the powerlessness of the children in a very real way. The author's different points of view intrigued me. I was totally surprised by the 'twist' and even uttered a loud, ‘Ohhhh!’ in a public waiting room. It's not often that a book blindsides me in such a rewarding way. What an elegantly well constructed plot. I am so pleased that teen readers will get to experience this translation. It will definitely have them asking for more.”

-- Jen Kraar, City of Asylum (Pittsburgh,