If you are a running enthusiast like me, then you probably have your own library of running books. Here are a few I believe that every running fan should read.
Running with the Buffaloes — This is my ALL-TIME favorite running book…never before have we gotten such an in-depth look at a TOP program and what they do on a day to day basis…and the story has so many twists and turns that it reads like a thriller.
John McDonnell Biography — Here’s another that gives a great in-depth look into the greatest coaching mind the NCAA has seen for Cross Country and Track and Field. This is right behind Running with the Buffaloes as my ALL-TIME favorite running book. The storytelling from John McDonnell is inspiring, funny, and gripping.
Bowerman and the Men of Oregon — Another book that centers on a great coach at the forefront of a great program / team. The story of Bill Bowerman and his building of the University of Oregon Track and Field program and Nike is another inspirational and humorous look into one of the greatest Track and Field programs ever in the NCAA.
The River Road: Becoming a Runner in 1972 — This fictional account of a young runner’s growing love affair with running was such a good read after I received it as a gift from Christmas that I did a book review on it for this site in two parts (Part One // Part Two).
The Animal Keepers: The Story of an Unlikely Hero and an Unforgettable Season — There’s something about this book, and I honestly can’t put my finger on it, but I could not put it down. It’s the story of a Wisconsin high school dynasty team that produced the likes of Suzy Favor Hamilton and Chris Solinsky, but this story isn’t about either of those two runners…
The Long Blue Line — This book reads as more of a collection of non-fiction short stories, but as Kenny Moore takes you through the lives of several past Olympic Champions you can’t help but to be inspired by the struggles and triumphs of each.
Pre: The Story of America’s Greatest Running Legend, Steve Prefontaine — I would imagine this is one that most people know about, but the stories of Steve Prefontaine in Tom Jordan’s classic are unmatched. If you are a fan of Pre and have not read this book, I highly recommend it.
Phillips Running 