“He just wanted to be a dog, and he was the best dog in the world.”
— Uri's early observation about Dinka, highlighting her simple, pure dog nature.
Archivist's Choice
Someone to Run With
Genre
Young Adult / Romance
Reading Time
7-8 hours
Key Themes
See below
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In Jerusalem's gritty streets, a shy teenager's search for a stray dog's owner leads him to a talented singer on a mission to save her drug-addicted friend, and together they find first love.
Synopsis
Sixteen-year-old Assaf must find the owner of a stray yellow Labrador in Jerusalem. This task quickly pulls him into a harsh urban world of street kids, criminals, and drug addiction. Assaf's path crosses with Tamar, a talented young singer. She is trying to rescue her brother, Pesach, a teenage drug addict, from a local crime boss. Assaf follows the dog, uncovering clues that reveal Tamar's story and her connection to the dog, Dinka. As Assaf and Tamar meet, they face dangerous people and navigate loyalty, sacrifice, and first love. They work together to free Pesach and find hope amid their shared experiences.
Reading time
7-8 hours
Difficulty
Medium
Pacing
Moderate
Mood
Gritty, Hopeful, Romantic, Suspenseful
✓ Read this if...
You enjoy coming-of-age stories set in unique urban landscapes, with elements of mystery, romance, and social realism.
✗ Skip this if...
You prefer lighthearted reads without themes of drug addiction, crime, and urban grit.
Plot Summary
The Dog's Arrival
Sixteen-year-old Assaf, a shy and somewhat clumsy boy working for Jerusalem's municipality during summer, gets an unusual task: find the owner of a large, scruffy yellow Labrador. He names the dog Dinka. Dinka seems to know the city streets well and appears to be looking for someone. Assaf's first attempts to find the owner, like checking for tags or asking around, fail. He is hesitant but starts to form an unexpected bond with the intelligent and determined animal, who seems to lead him rather than be led.
Tamar's Mission
The story then focuses on Tamar, a talented young singer living in a Jerusalem convent, who has run away from home. She is desperately searching for her older brother, Shay. Shay has become addicted to drugs and lives on the streets under the control of a criminal named Pesach. Tamar uses her musical talent to earn money and find information, often performing for strangers and observing the city's hidden side. She is driven by a strong love for Shay and a fierce will to rescue him from Pesach, despite the dangers.
Following Dinka's Lead
Assaf continues his search for Dinka's owner, but the dog's behavior suggests a deeper goal. Dinka repeatedly leads Assaf through unfamiliar neighborhoods, busy markets, and quiet alleys, often stopping at places as if remembering them. Assaf, usually a creature of habit, finds himself drawn into a world he never knew. He meets various street vendors, homeless people, and eccentrics. He starts to suspect Dinka is not just lost but actively trying to find someone specific. His passive search turns into an active pursuit of Dinka's mysterious goal.
The First Clues
Through flashbacks and Tamar's experiences, the reader learns more about her family and Shay's involvement with Pesach. Shay, once a promising artist, became involved with Pesach's gang after a period of disappointment and a desire to escape. Tamar's parents, heartbroken, sent her to live in the convent for safety and education, hoping to protect her from Shay's destructive path. Tamar, however, feels a deep responsibility for her brother and believes she is the only one who can save him, remembering their childhood and close bond.
A Near Miss
Assaf, still following Dinka, finds himself in a part of the city where Tamar has recently performed. They narrowly miss meeting several times. Assaf sees posters of a missing girl, Tamar, put up by the convent, but does not connect it to Dinka's quest. Meanwhile, Tamar continues to gather information about Shay, often putting herself in dangerous situations. Dinka's persistent sniffing and leading often bring Assaf close to Tamar's trail, creating a sense of an upcoming connection without either character realizing it.
The Brothel and Pesach's Influence
Tamar learns that Shay is likely being held and exploited at a brothel run by Pesach's associate, Theodora. Disguising herself and using her singing, Tamar manages to enter the brothel, a dangerous place. She observes the girls working there, the oppressive atmosphere, and the extent of Pesach's control. She sees how Shay, weakened by drugs, is trapped and unable to escape. Her resolve to rescue him strengthens, but she realizes the huge challenge and risk of confronting Pesach directly.
Assaf's Growing Awareness
As Dinka continues to lead Assaf through the city, the dog's behavior becomes more precise. Dinka consistently stops at places where Tamar has been, sniffing her scent. Assaf starts to notice the posters of the missing girl and overhears conversations about a young singer. He slowly connects the dots, realizing that Dinka is not just looking for an owner, but specifically for a girl. The dog's steady loyalty and focus begin to inspire Assaf, pushing him out of his shell and making him more observant and active.
The Confrontation at the Brothel
Tamar, after careful planning, confronts Pesach at the brothel in a desperate attempt to free Shay. She uses her wit and courage, trying to appeal to any remaining humanity in Pesach or exploit his weaknesses. The confrontation is tense and dangerous, with Pesach showing his cruel nature. Shay, barely aware due to drug use, cannot fully understand or help himself. Tamar's bravery is clear, but she finds herself in a perilous situation, outnumbered by Pesach and his associates.
The Meeting
Just as Tamar is in great danger at the brothel, Dinka, with Assaf, arrives. Dinka immediately recognizes Tamar as her owner, having been Shay's dog before he gave her to Tamar. The dog's happy reunion with Tamar makes Assaf understand the full situation. Assaf, despite his shyness, feels he must act, drawn into Tamar's dangerous world. Their meeting is chaotic and intense, marking the end of their separate journeys and the start of their shared fight against Pesach.
The Escape and the Chase
Assaf, driven by the urgency and Tamar's courage, helps her and the weakened Shay escape from Pesach. A thrilling chase follows through Jerusalem's winding streets, with Pesach and his men pursuing them. Assaf, though clumsy, uses his knowledge of the city's shortcuts and Dinka's speed to escape. Tamar, despite her exhaustion, shows remarkable resilience. This frantic escape strengthens the bond between Assaf and Tamar as they rely on each other to survive.
Seeking Refuge
Assaf, Tamar, and a barely conscious Shay find temporary refuge in a hidden, abandoned building. Here, they get a moment of rest from the chase. Tamar tends to Shay, and Assaf and Tamar connect for the first time. Away from immediate danger, they share their stories and vulnerabilities. Assaf's shyness begins to fade in Tamar's presence, and Tamar finds unexpected strength and companionship in Assaf. Dinka remains a constant, comforting presence, symbolizing their shared journey.
The Final Confrontation
Pesach eventually tracks them to their hiding place. A tense and dangerous confrontation happens. Assaf, despite his fear, bravely stands by Tamar, while Dinka fiercely protects them. Tamar uses her intelligence and quick thinking to try and outsmart Pesach. The climax involves a physical struggle and a battle of wits, with Shay's life and their freedom at high risk. The outcome is uncertain, testing their courage and resourcefulness against a ruthless enemy.
Aftermath and Resolution
After the confrontation, Pesach is either caught or driven away, and the immediate threat ends. Shay is taken to get the help he needs for his drug addiction. Assaf and Tamar, having faced extreme danger together, have formed a deep and clear bond. While Shay's recovery will be long, there is hope. Assaf has changed from a shy boy into a courageous young man, and Tamar has found not only her brother but also a true partner. Dinka, who brought them together, is finally home.
A New Beginning
With Shay safe and recovering, Assaf and Tamar are free to explore their growing feelings. Their shared ordeal has created a strong connection, moving past initial attraction to a deep understanding and respect. They spend time together, talking, walking the city, and simply being together. Their relationship is based on the extraordinary events that brought them together, showing that love and hope can be found even in the darkest parts of life. Dinka, always present, is a reminder of their journey.
Principal Figures
Assaf
The Protagonist
Assaf transforms from a timid, passive boy into a courageous and resourceful young man, discovering his own strength and the capacity for love.
Tamar
The Protagonist
Tamar's relentless pursuit of her brother leads her to confront her fears, find unexpected allies, and ultimately discover love and a renewed sense of hope.
Dinka
The Supporting
Dinka's journey from lost dog to reunited companion serves as the catalyst for the entire story, bringing the protagonists together.
Shay
The Supporting
Shay's arc is one of being rescued from the depths of addiction, offering a glimmer of hope for recovery through his sister's love.
Pesach
The Antagonist
Pesach remains a figure of malevolence, his defeat symbolizing the triumph of love and courage over exploitation.
Theodora
The Supporting
Theodora remains a static character, embodying the harsh realities of the criminal underworld.
Sister Agnes
The Supporting
Sister Agnes remains a consistent source of moral support and concern for Tamar.
Assaf's Parents
The Mentioned
Their understanding of Assaf deepens as he returns changed by his experiences, though their role is peripheral.
Themes & Insights
The Journey of Self-Discovery
Assaf and Tamar both grow significantly through their individual and shared quests. Assaf, initially shy and passive, is pushed out of his comfort zone by Dinka's leading. He discovers courage, resourcefulness, and a capacity for love he did not know he had, changing from a boy into a young man. Tamar, already strong, deepens her understanding of resilience, trust, and the importance of accepting help. Their journeys show how facing difficult realities can lead to self-discovery and the formation of identity.
“He had always been a passenger in his own life, but now, with Dinka pulling him forward, he was suddenly the driver, steering into the unknown.”
Unconditional Love and Loyalty
The novel explores various forms of powerful love: the fierce, unconditional sibling love between Tamar and Shay, which drives Tamar's mission; the steady loyalty of Dinka the dog, who tirelessly searches for her owner; and the developing romantic love between Assaf and Tamar, formed in shared danger. These forms of love are shown as strong forces that can inspire courage, overcome problems, and provide hope in the darkest situations. Dinka's loyalty brings these different forms of love together.
“She would find him. Even if she had to tear the city apart with her bare hands, she would find her brother.”
The Hidden Underbelly of Society
The book vividly shows the darker, often hidden side of Jerusalem, moving beyond its historical and religious image to reveal a world of street kids, drug addiction, poverty, and criminal exploitation. This theme highlights the vulnerability of youth and the destructive power of addiction and manipulation. Through Tamar's desperate search and Assaf's accidental entry into this world, the novel exposes the grim realities faced by those on the margins of society, urging readers to look beyond the surface. The brothel and Pesach's operations are central to this theme.
“The city had a thousand faces, and he was only just beginning to see the ones that stayed hidden in the shadows.”
Connection and Belonging
A main theme is the human need for connection and belonging. Tamar, despite her independence, longs for her brother and a sense of family. Assaf, initially isolated by his shyness, finds deep connection first with Dinka, then with Tamar. The search for Dinka's owner is, at its core, a search for belonging. The novel suggests that true belonging is not just about a physical home, but about finding people with whom one shares a deep emotional bond and a sense of purpose. This theme culminates in the strong connection formed between Assaf and Tamar.
“He realized he wasn't just finding a dog's owner; he was finding a piece of himself, and maybe, a piece of someone else too.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Lost Dog (Dinka)
A seemingly simple object that acts as the primary catalyst and guide.
Dinka, the stray yellow Labrador, is the central plot device. Her initial appearance sets Assaf's journey in motion, and her uncanny ability to navigate the city and lead Assaf to specific locations serves as a literal and metaphorical guide. Dinka acts as a crucial link between the two protagonists, Tamar and Assaf, without whom their paths would never have crossed. Her loyalty and determination mirror the human emotions driving the story, making her more than just an animal, but a character vital to the plot's progression and the weaving together of the dual narratives.
Dual Narrative Perspective
Alternating viewpoints to build suspense and reveal character.
The novel employs a dual narrative structure, alternating between Assaf's and Tamar's perspectives in separate chapters. This device allows the reader to experience both sides of the unfolding mystery simultaneously, building suspense as their paths gradually converge. It provides deep insight into each character's motivations, fears, and internal struggles, creating empathy before they even meet. The alternating viewpoints also highlight the contrast between their worlds – Assaf's sheltered life and Tamar's gritty existence – making their eventual meeting even more impactful and destined.
The City of Jerusalem
A vibrant and multifaceted setting that acts as a character itself.
Jerusalem is not merely a backdrop but a dynamic character in the story. It is depicted with gritty realism, revealing its hidden alleys, bustling markets, and dangerous underbelly, far removed from its common tourist image. The city's labyrinthine streets and diverse inhabitants provide both obstacles and opportunities for the protagonists. It is a place of both ancient history and modern struggles, mirroring the complex themes of the novel. The city's geography dictates the chase scenes and the places where connections are made, making it an active participant in the plot.
Music and Singing
Tamar's talent as a means of survival, expression, and connection.
Tamar's exceptional singing talent serves multiple functions as a plot device. It is her primary means of survival on the streets, earning her money and gaining access to information. More deeply, it is her form of emotional expression, allowing her to convey her pain, hope, and determination. Her singing also acts as a subtle clue for Assaf, as he hears whispers of a talented young singer, unknowingly following her trail. It highlights her unique strength and vulnerability, and eventually becomes a way for her to connect with others, including Assaf.
Critical analysis
Notable Quotes
“The world was full of people who were just waiting for someone to run with them.”
— A central theme of the book, reflecting the search for connection and companionship.
“Maybe love was just the ability to see someone truly, completely, without any filters.”
— Uri's evolving understanding of love as he gets to know Tamar.
“You don't choose your family, but you can choose who you run with.”
— Tamar's reflection on her life choices and the people she allows into her inner circle.
“Every person has a secret world inside them, and sometimes, if you're lucky, you get a glimpse of it.”
— Uri's growing empathy and curiosity about the inner lives of others.
“Sometimes the greatest bravery is just holding on, even when everything tells you to let go.”
— Tamar's resilience in the face of her difficult circumstances.
“A dog sees the world with its nose, and a person sees it with their heart.”
— Uri comparing his own perception to Dinka's, highlighting different ways of experiencing reality.
“The silence between two people who understand each other is more powerful than any words.”
— Uri and Tamar's growing bond, where unspoken understanding becomes key.
“You can't save everyone, but you can try to save the one you're running with.”
— Uri's realization about the limits of his help, focusing on Tamar.
“The city has its own rhythm, its own heartbeat, and if you listen closely, it tells you stories.”
— Uri's observations of Jerusalem as he navigates it, seeing it as a living entity.
“Fear can make you do strange things, but so can love.”
— Tamar's motivations for some of her more extreme actions.
“Even in the darkest places, there's always a flicker of light, if you know where to look.”
— A message of hope amidst the harsh realities the characters face.
“Sometimes you have to get lost to find out where you truly belong.”
— Uri's journey of self-discovery through his search for Dinka and Tamar.
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Key Questions (FAQ)
The novel follows two intertwined quests in Jerusalem: Assaf, a shy sixteen-year-old, is tasked with finding the owner of a stray yellow Labrador, Dinka. Simultaneously, Tamar, a talented street singer, is on a determined mission to rescue her drug-addicted brother, Shay, from a dangerous criminal organization.
About the author
David Grossman is an internationally acclaimed Israeli author known for his profound and emotionally resonant novels. His works, including "Someone to Run With" and "To the End of the Land," often explore themes of conflict, love, and the human condition with lyrical prose. Grossman has received numerous prestigious awards for his contributions to literature.
