The Runner's Literary Companion: Great Stories and Poems About Running

By Garth Battista

Book Overview

A collection of the best writing on running--for anyone who loves reading as much as running, or who just loves to run. This inspiring collection of forty-eight short stories and poems--brimming with courage, fear, pain, hope, and elation--offers an intimate glimpse of the runner's art and heart. The very best writing about running is here, yet the selections aren't simply about the physical challenge of going just one more mile or knocking off another second. Here you'll find a love story, two war tales, a horror story, several murder mysteries, and a surreal comedy--by such authors as Evelyn Waugh, Walt Whitman, Joyce Carrol Oates, Max Apple, and A.E. Housman. Whether you're a weekend athlete, an Olympic hopeful, or simply someone who likes to read rather than run, this wonderful and exhilarating anthology has something to offer. "Animates the spirit of running better than any other book."-- Runner's World

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 014025353X
• ISBN13: 9780140253535
• Release Date: March 1996
• Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 1.10 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.3" x 7.7"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Great collection of stories and poems.

I highly recommend this book. I read 1 or 2 stories every day while commuting on the train. I am extremely happy with the decision to buy this book.

a must have for runners

This book is a five star must have book for runners. I have purchased the book for at least four other people (runners) to read. Good variety of stories with some poems too. Andrew Gideon, Thompson Falls, MT

great collection

I thought this book had a great collection of running stories that just inspired me to just run and help me in my races to keep going. I enjoyed reading this book eminsly and it has something for all ages and all types of runners. I recommend that any runner get this book, especially if you're looking for inspiration

Encompasses all the emotions of running: excellent

This book should be in the hands of every runner. The short stories are amazing. The different portrayals of running can appeal to anyone, from beginner to advanced. Some of the stories will bring you to your race days and get your adrenaline running as if you are runninf the race. I can only read them one at a time because I get to pumped up and have to relax.The poems are very eclectic. They capture the crazy thoughts that go through your mind while you are running. They also are beautiful descriptions of a very basic act. I loved them all. Every once in a while I read one before i go run. They make you think, and isn't that what happens on a run. These poems give you good mind fuel.