"Born to Run" is a children's novel by Michael Morpurgo that tells the story of Patrick, a lonely boy who discovers a sack floating in a canal. Inside the sack are several greyhound puppies, abandoned and left to drown. Patrick rescues the puppies and forms a deep bond with the smallest one, whom he names Best Mate. Against his parents' initial disapproval, Patrick is allowed to keep Best Mate as his own.
Patrick becomes a responsible and loving owner, taking Best Mate to the park every day to run and play. However, their peaceful life takes a turn when Best Mate is kidnapped by Craig, a rogue dog trainer who sees the dog's potential as a racing champion. Craig's daughter, Becky, becomes attached to Best Mate and does her best to care for him, despite her father's mistreatment of the dogs he has kidnapped.
Through the story, "Born to Run" explores themes of loyalty, friendship, and the mistreatment of animals in the context of dog racing. Michael Morpurgo's emotive storytelling draws attention to the bond between humans and animals, while raising awareness about animal welfare concerns.
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