August 15, 2007

Dear Smithy Ide:

I am writing to you as part of my summer reading assignment for high school. I’ve been instructed to write to a character from the book I chose. Because The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty is the current “Read Across Rhode Island” novel, and because I talked to a number of students who recommended it, I chose it for this assignment. I was interested in reading a fictional story set in my home state that describes real places around Rhode Island that I’m familiar with as a resident. As the narrator, you are the character who made the strongest impression on me. I admire your fortitude despite the many obstacles you faced. I also appreciate your humble honesty in describing yourself as a person who is far from perfect but trying to improve yourself and your life even as you grieve for lost family members.

One passage that captures your character particularly well is: “I gave her the four quarters, had a long drink of water at the fountain by the door, and then I ate three bananas outside by the Raleigh. Bananas are easy to chew, and they fill you. The air was getting heavier as the night rain evaporated, but it had that sweet summer smell, and the wetness brought up the hay and manure and other things I’d forgotten.” I was struck by your fascination with bananas as you described more than once “rediscovering” them. This seemed to reflect your rediscovering your true self as you continued on your bicycle ride across the country, changing not just your diet but your entire life.

One question I want to ask you is whether or not your sister ever hurt your feelings. I understand that she suffered from mental illness, which caused her to behave erratically, but sometimes in the novel she says really cruel things to you. Were you always able to remind yourself that her mood swings were part of her illness, or did her hurtful words ever get to you? I admire your strength and patience as a big brother who did your best to support and protect Bethany.

Your character is the reason I have already recommended this novel to several friends. Smithy, you’re so likeable and honest and serious and kind. I know my friends will appreciate getting to know your character and reading about so many places in Rhode Island that are familiar to us. Your story leaves me wishing for a sequel so that I can read more about what happens with you and Norma. I wonder if you still ride your Raleigh everywhere, too!

Sincerely,

Nick Duffy