The Animal Keepers — Donn Behnke
Typically I get a few books for Christmas from my in-laws and that’s one of the best times of the year for me to sit down and actually get in some good reading (along with the summer)…I surprisingly got this book for Christmas a few years ago and could not put it down.
The Animal Keepers tells the true story of the Stevens Point High School cross country team and their unforgettable journey through the 1985 season. Joined by their first year runner Scott “The Animal” Longley the year takes an unexpected turn as this most unlikely hero leads them on a quest for a state title.
Told from the perspective of a young coach this is a book about running,c competing, and team building, but at its center this is the story of a young man with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities who loved to run, loved to compete, but most of all loved being part of a team.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of running or team sports. It’s such a great story told from the guy who led the team day in and day out. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up.
Phillips Running 