The Boy Who Gave Up the Race to Save His Rival

that house complained much.

They did not have room for it.

There were always lunches to pack, bills to stretch, socks to mend, and reasons to keep moving.

Marcus had a paper route before school.

After school, he worked three evenings a week at a small neighborhood grocery, stacking canned goods and sweeping aisles after closing.

On Saturdays, he helped continue reading …