Book Review: North: Finding My Way While Running the Appalachian Trail
Looking for a book to inspire you to push yourself to your full potential as a runner? Something that will make you want to dream big and try something new. Does the idea of running the iconic Appalachian trail spark your need for an adventure? North will check all of those boxes.
About the Author
The book is written by Scott Jurek, a legendary trail runner. He boasts an extensive list of ultra marathon victories including Spartathlon, the Hardrock 100, the Badwater 135-Mile Ultramarathon, and the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run, which he won seven times.
About the Book
The book North is about Scott Jurek’s trials and tribulations, as he embarks on breaking the speed record while running the entire Appalachian trail. The prospect of breaking the speed record is daunting to say the least. In order to break the fastest known time, he will need to run 50 miles per day to complete the 2,189 mile in about 7 weeks. The Appalachian Trail has other ideas though and it takes everything in him to carry on. He fights through sleep deprivation and injury, to claw his way to the finish to beat the fastest known time.
To complete the journey, his wife Jenny crews him. She travels the length of the trail in their van, keeping him fed and providing motivation. Many of his friends also help him along the way.
The book really hones in on what it takes to complete this endeavor. The physical and emotional toll of this venture can be felt throughout the book. It takes more than just grit to pull this off.
My Thoughts
What don’t I love about this book. I became easily drawn into the feel of the trail and what his journey represents. This book will make you want to test your limits. It definitely inspired me. This book is well worth the read for runners and non-runners alike.
