What makes a story stick with you long after the last page? For the authors behind Writer on the Run: Canadian Word Warriors, it’s not just gripping plots or dramatic twists—it’s the everyday truths we see in the characters, settings, and struggles.

This week, we’re diving into two books that blend entertainment with meaning: Mary M. Cushnie-Mansour’s Guilty Till Proven Innocent and Regina Jetleb’s The Boy in the Arcade. One tackles the flaws of the justice system through the eyes of a detective cat. The other invites middle-grade readers into the heart of friendship, inclusion, and growing up with curiosity.

A Cat’s-Eye View of Justice

Mary’s Guilty Till Proven Innocent isn’t your typical courtroom drama. Yes, there are accusations and legal dilemmas—but it’s also a Detective Toby mystery, and Toby, a clever feline, brings both wit and wisdom to the page.

“In our society we are asked to believe someone is not guilty until proven otherwise. In reality, that is not actually the way the system works.”

Readers love this series for its charm, but also for the way it holds a mirror to real-life injustices. With Toby curled beside you on the couch—or purring beside Ethan in the book—you’ll find yourself asking deeper questions about truth, fairness, and how we judge others.

On Sale! From July 25–31, the eBook of Guilty Till Proven Innocent is just $1.99 on Amazon.

Growing Up, One “Crap Cake” at a Time

Regina’s The Boy in the Arcade offers a lighter—but no less meaningful—look at childhood. Through Ben’s quirky world of gaming and growing up, readers meet characters like Akito, a trivia-loving kid who stands out and stands strong.

“Life should never be solo. We need people and people need us. This world would be so much better if we all just got along.” – Archie, the arcade owner

From clever “clean swears” like “double dung beetles” to heartfelt friendships, Regina mixes humour and humanity to create stories that kids devour and parents appreciate.

 Join the Conversation

Want to play along? This week we’re asking:

  • What’s your favourite substitute for a swear word?
  • Do you love trivia? Got a favourite random fact?

Drop your answers on Instagram or Facebook—we’ll be sharing our favourites!

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Discover Fiction with Heart

Whether you’re solving mysteries with a detective cat or cheering for an underdog in a video game arcade, our stories are made to resonate.

Explore more by Mary M. Cushnie-Mansour and R. Jetleb at WriterOnTheRun.ca.