The Running Man

Synopsis

The iconic bestseller from Stephen King, writing as Richard Bachman, 'Love The Hunger Games? . . . This prescient novel is a fast-paced and fun read - a harbinger of reality TV - and you'll root for Ben to outwit the Games Network in this grim fight to the death' (Today Books, NBC News) - now with a stunning new cover look.

It's not just a game when you're running for your life.

Every night they tune in to the nation's favourite prime-time TV game show.

They all watch, from the sprawling slums to the security-obsessed enclaves of the rich. They all watch the ultimate live death game as the contestants try to beat not the clock, but annihilation at the hands of the Hunters. Survive thirty days and win the billion dollar jackpot - that is the promise. But the odds are brutal and the game rigged. Best score so far is eight days.

And now there is a new contestant, the latest Running Man, staking his life while a nation watches.

Publisher's note: The Running Man is also one of the three stories featured in The Bachman Books.

Summary

Chapter 1
In a dystopian future, America is a totalitarian state ruled by the oppressive Network. Ben Richards, a working-class man, desperately needs money for his daughter's life-saving operation.

Real Example: Ben's situation reflects the financial struggles faced by many in modern society and the desperation that can drive people to extreme measures.

Chapter 2
Ben reluctantly becomes a contestant on "The Running Man," a televised game show where fugitives are hunted down by government agents. He is assigned the alias "Starman" and given a chance to earn money for his daughter's surgery.

Real Example: The Running Man concept parallels the reality TV phenomenon, where contestants engage in dangerous and often humiliating challenges for fame and fortune.

Chapter 3
Starman faces his first pursuer, a sadistic hunter named Buzzsaw. A tense chase ensues through the city streets, with Starman using his quick thinking and street knowledge to outwit his opponent.

Real Example: The chase scene showcases the adrenaline-fueled nature of the Running Man game and the desperate survival instincts of the contestants.

Chapter 4
Starman befriends fellow runner Amber Mendez, a resistance fighter who believes the Network can be overthrown. Together, they navigate the treacherous game, dodging hunters and gaining support from the oppressed public.

Real Example: Amber's character represents the hope for rebellion against oppressive regimes and the power of human connection in adversity.

Chapter 5
As Starman's profile grows, the Network unleashes its most formidable hunter, Dynamo De Luca. A brutal and cunning opponent, Dynamo poses a major threat to Starman's survival.

Real Example: Dynamo's character highlights the challenges of overcoming overwhelming obstacles and the resilience required in the face of extreme adversity.

Chapter 6
Starman's final battle takes place in the Coliseum, a gladiatorial arena where he must face Dynamo in a televised showdown. The entire nation watches with bated breath as the two adversaries clash.

Real Example: The Coliseum showdown represents the culmination of the Running Man game, where the ultimate fate of Starman and the Network hangs in the balance.

Chapter 7
In a shocking twist, Starman defeats Dynamo and uses the platform to address the nation, revealing the Network's true nature and calling for a revolution. The Network's grip on America begins to unravel.

Real Example: Starman's victory symbolizes the triumph of hope over oppression and the power of individuals to inspire change.