Running to the Edge

by Matthew Futterman
Running to the Edge cover
Good Books rating 4.12
Nonfiction
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Technical
  • ID: 5554
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-29
  • ISBN: 9780385543750
  • Publisher: Anchor
  • Published: 2019-06-04
  • Reviews: 4

Running to the Edge chronicles the remarkable career of Bob Larsen, a visionary running coach who transformed a ragtag group of California runners into champions. From high school meets to Olympic glory, Larsen's relentless pursuit of the 'secret sauce' of running excellence is interwoven with the science behind human performance and the author's personal running journey. This gripping narrative captures the essence of Larsen's triumphs and the enduring impact he had on the sport of running. The book delves into the unorthodox training methods that propelled American runners to unprecedented heights, featuring stories of iconic athletes like Meb Keflezighi and the cult-favorite Jamul Toads running group. It's a must-read for anyone passionate about running and the pursuit of excellence.

Reviews
kirkusreviews.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
brilliant 4.50

The book is a unique self-help guide that focuses on self-improvement through accepting life's problems and unhappiness. The author's humor and witty writing make the book engaging and powerful, offering unconventional values for a better life.

The subtle art of not giving a f*ck is a refreshing take on self-help, targeting those who typically dislike the genre. It emphasizes self-improvement by accepting life's problems and occasional unhappiness, which sets it apart from other books on the topic. The author's bold, sarcastic, and humorous writing style makes the book engaging and powerful. The book teaches how to prioritize thoughts effectively, focusing on what truly matters based on personal values. It presents the idea of not giving a f*ck as a way to reorient life's expectations and choose what is important. The author explains that happiness comes from solving problems, which is a constant work-in-progress. The book also introduces five unconventional values that are beneficial for self-improvement, such as responsibility, uncertainty, failure, rejection, and contemplation of one's own mortality.

Quick quotes

    The key to a good life is not giving a fuck about more; it’s giving a fuck about less, giving a fuck about only what is true and immediate and important.

    Wanting positive experience is itself a negative experience; accepting negative experience is a positive experience.

    When you give better fucks, you get better problems and you get a better life!

Run Into Words · 2021-02-11
great 4.00

The book gives equal attention to both high-level and low-level competitions, making it a comprehensive read. The reviewer appreciates the balanced approach and the engaging storytelling.

This review notes that the book doesn't just focus on the elite runners but also gives due respect to lower-level competitions. This balanced approach makes the book accessible and interesting to a wider audience. The reviewer enjoys the storytelling and the way the author weaves together different narratives to create a rich tapestry of the running world. It's a book that will appeal to both casual readers and serious runners, offering a well-rounded perspective on the sport.

Quick quotes

    In Running to the Edge however, Futterman gives relatively low level competition the same space and respect as he does the highest of the high.

    The first half of the book is a fascinating exploration of the early days of running.

    The book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and culture of running.

Taking the Long Way Home · 2019-07-19
great 4.00

The book is compared to Christopher McDougall's work, highlighting its engaging narrative and insightful exploration of running culture. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to captivate readers with its storytelling.

This review places the book in the same category as Christopher McDougall's works, which is high praise indeed. The reviewer loves how it delves into the world of running, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the sport. The narrative is engaging and the insights into running culture are both informative and entertaining. It's a book that will keep you turning the pages, whether you're a runner or just someone who enjoys a good story.

Quick quotes

    Time Magazine calls Running to the Edge one of its 32 must-reads for summer.

    I'd put this book in the same category as Christopher McDougall's Born to Run.

    The book is a captivating exploration of the evolution of running and the extraordinary individuals who pushed the boundaries.

The New York Times · 2019-06-04
great 4.00

The book provides a detailed account of Bob Larsen's coaching methods and his impact on runners. The reviewer finds the book insightful and well-researched, offering valuable lessons for athletes.

This review highlights the book's focus on Bob Larsen, a legendary running coach, and his unique approach to training. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the valuable insights into Larsen's methods, which have helped shape some of the greatest runners. The book is not just for runners but for anyone interested in understanding the psychology and methodology behind athletic success. It's a well-crafted narrative that offers both inspiration and practical advice.

Quick quotes

    A new book about the running coach and guru Bob Larsen shows how, long before he made Meb Keflezighi a champion, he honed his approach to running and life.

    Athletes in any sport stand to learn from Larsen's methods.

    Futterman turns in a fluent yarn reminiscent of Plimpton and McPhee.

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