Sole Sisters: Stories of Women and Running

asked by trailrider on November 26, 2006 3:17 AM

Half of all runners are women, and they are changing the face of the sport. It's a social outlet, a healthful way to improve mental well-being, and an opportunity to form bonds with like-minded women.

Sole Sisters: Stories of Women and Running is a gripping collection of stories that captures the inspirational heart of the women's running boom. Authors Jennifer Lin and Susan Warner have interviewed women of all ages from all walks of life and all parts of the country. All of their subjects have one thing in common: Running has transformed them. There are both heartrending stories of grief and survival and lighthearted tales of friendship. Among them are:

" Sisters who competed in a 5K race to honor a sister who survived breast cancer.

" A 9/11 widow who ran her first marathon to honor the memory of her husband.

" A 65-year-old woman who overcame obesity and alcoholism to finish the grueling Ironman triathlon.

" An unknown runner from Norway named Grete Waitz who decided to run a marathon-and changed the face of the sport.

Sole Sisters is not just for women who run. It appeals to all women who know what it means to have the support of others who share their trials and triumphs. Sometimes touching, sometimes funny, and always inspiring, Sole Sisters has the makings of a runaway hit.

Buy this book

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Reviews

I very much enjoyed the personal nature of the story each runner had to tell. One or two were a little to much brag for me. Most provided inspiration and joy at the growth the runner achieved by their running. More than a couple brought a tear to my eye. I encourage the writers to create an annual supplement. (Keep it simple and don't over do it the way the Chicken Soup guys have done.) I look forward to more!

Thanks. egm, Vermont

reviewed by smiling on November 28, 2006 4:17 PM

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Great book. No matter what your sport or fitness regime, the stories in this book will inspire and motivate you to overcome whatever obstacles stand in your way.

The lessons can be applied to any struggle you might be facing, from relationships to business to yep, even learning how to run. The stories are short and easy to read--great if you don't have much time to indulge.

These amazing and uplifting stories of the power of women would make a great gift for any woman (or man). Give a copy to all your "sisters".

reviewed by fazer on November 29, 2006 2:28 PM

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I read this book in one sitting! I purchased the book for two running friends of mine and they passed it on to other fellow runners. This book helped me to think less about the physical act of running, but more about why I run and the friendships I have established while running. Those relationships have been a wonderful source of support and inspiration, very much like the wonderful stories told in the book.

reviewed by goonball on November 29, 2006 6:15 PM

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The vignettes within this book are poignant, touching, and downright real. One of my running friends handed this to me after a 12-mile Sunday morning trek, one (which like many others) allowed us to vent, analyze, and think about our lives. Reading this compilation truly drew me in, both as a runner and a woman. But don't let the chick peg fool you. My husband, who's been a runner for more than 25 years, picked it up and agreed: This is some solid, effective writing that rewards its readers with gold coins throughout.

reviewed by megafan on November 29, 2006 6:35 PM

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add a new book!