The Runaway

Revised and re-edited for 2024, including a new forward and an unpublished story. In 1951, Michael, a 15-year-old boy, ran away from his home in Providence, RI, for the 72nd and last time, setting off on a one-year odyssey that would forever change his life. "The Runaway" is a semi-autobiographical tale that immerses readers in a whirlwind of murder, revenge, torture, encounters with the mob, kidnapping and the complexities of love, all while showcasing the boy's incredible journey of survival and growth. Originally published as an e-book in 2011, this captivating story has been revisited and lovingly reimagined by the author's son, J. Christopher Walsh, five years after his father's passing. This enriched edition, a testament to the author's love and dedication, features a heartfelt foreword, meticulous re-editing, and expanded narratives and concludes with an additional, previously unpublished story, providing readers with an even deeper dive into this unforgettable adventure. Join this young runaway as he navigates a world fraught with danger and possibility, witnessing his remarkable transformation from a boy seeking freedom to a young man discovering his true identity. "The Runaway" is not just a story of escape but a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure and the transformative power of life's trials. "This book grabbed me from the first page and never let go. I think it will be with me forever. It is an amazing odyssey, a fabulous tale, an incredible story." --Lee Harris, author of "Murder in Alphabet City" and the Cristine Bennett series. "If you like road novels, coming-of-age novels, and no-holds-barred depictions of life on the edge in 1950's America, The Runaway is your meat. Strong and trenchant stuff." --Bill Pronzini, author of the Nameless Detective series.