Heartbeat by Sharon Creech
A touching story about a young girl finding her identity and learning how it fits with the many rhythms of life. Annie loves running, drawing, and her family. She has a best friend called Max who also loves running, but things are not so great in Max's life. As the two come to terms with growing up and getting on and dealing with the many events and pressures around them a new and wonderful rhythm is established. A classic novel by a Carnegie Medal-winning author.