The Rainbow Runners is a true story of a sled dog adventure told by Alaskan Husky, Nija JaJa, the youngest member of the team, who along with her “Uncle Buncles” and brother set out to follow a dream to participate in a long-distance race through the mountains.
The story takes place in the white-capped mountains of Sweden. The book begins with a dream to prepare for a 250-kilometer long distance sled dog race through the Swedish Mountains. With fewer dogs in the team than is common for such a race, the team begins their journey with an uphill battle. During preparations for the race the dogs experience what it means to build a team, and not just a functioning team, but a team that is flexible and adaptable to changing conditions; a team that is built on recognizing and celebrating the unique strengths in each team member; and a team that keeps sight on their own dream, even when others doubt their ability.
Among the issues focused on in the book are teambuilding, vision, goal setting and strategic planning, diversity, and leadership.