Author:Haruki Murakami,Philip Gabriel
'Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional'
A compelling mediation on the power of running and a fascinating insight into the life of this internationally bestselling writer. A perfect reading companion for runners.
In 1982, having sold his jazz bar to devote himself to writing, Murakami began running to keep fit. A year later, he'd completed a solo course from Athens to Marathon, and now, after dozens of such races, he reflects upon the influence the sport has had on his life and on his writing.
Equal parts travelogue, training log and reminiscence, this revealing memoir covers his four-month preparation for the 2005 New York City Marathon and settings ranging from Tokyo's Jingu Gaien gardens, where he once shared the course with an Olympian, to the Charles River in Boston.
By turns funny and sobering, playful and philosophical, this is a must-read for fans of this masterful yet private writer as well as for the exploding population of athletes who find similar satisfaction in distance running.
*Murakami's new book Novelist as a Vocation is available now*
'There can never have been a book quite like this memoir of running and writing before. In its self-contained way, it's nothing less than an inspiration' Evening Standard
'Hugely enjoyable...You don't have to have run a marathon to be captivated' Sunday Telegraph
'Comical, charming and philosophical...an excellent memoir' GQ
It’s an inspiring, reflective read that’ll make you want to dust your trainers off
—— Andy McNicoll , Professional Social WorkAn outstanding read
—— Peter Sharkey , Eastern Daily Press[Prior-Palmer's] gorgeous, sensual depiction of this race is a literary marvel; it feels like you are riding alongside her across the desolate steppes; her verbal acuity makes vivid the most elusive of landscapes; her triumph becomes ours.
—— NYLONAbsolutely riveting.
—— BuzzfeedFilled with soulful self-reflection and race detail, this fast-paced page-turner is a thrill ride from start to finish.
—— Publishers WeeklyFeisty and exhilarating . . . Horse lovers will adore this inspiring and spirited memoir.
—— Kirkus ReviewsIn this sensual, spiritual memoir, Prior-Palmer recounts her grueling journey through immense physical hardship, and her surprising transformation from underdog to champion
—— EsquireCurrently in the top five of Amazon’s sporting books list, lineal heavyweight champion Tyson Fury opens up on his struggles with mental health issues and the rise of the “Gypsy King” to the very pinnacle of the sport.
—— DAILY MAIL OnlineFar from your typical sports autobiography […] Fury faces his mental health issues head on.
—— SortedAn amazingly honest, courageous, passionate book.
—— Adam SmithCandidly stark.
—— Daily TelegraphA great read that explores his battle with depression and the rise, fall, then rise of the Gypsy King.
—— Will MuirThe People's Champion
—— The TimesThe Amazing Real-Life Champion
—— Sylvester Stallone