Up to Speed

by Christine Yu
Up to Speed cover
Good Books rating 4.0
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Waterstones
Hardback • £26.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 5583
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
sekarwrites.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
inspiring 4.50

The reviewer found 'Up to Speed' to be a relatable and inspiring book about running and overcoming personal challenges. They appreciated the author's journey and the practical tips provided, making it a valuable resource for anyone starting their running journey.

The reviewer connected deeply with 'Up to Speed', finding it to be a fast-paced and inspiring read. The book captures the author's journey from tentative beginnings to completing a marathon, which resonated with the reviewer's own experiences. They particularly appreciated the emphasis on the daily training runs leading up to the marathon, which the reviewer found to be the true achievement. The book also touches on coping with depression, anxiety, and loss, adding emotional depth to the narrative. The reviewer loved the descriptions of the beauty of being outdoors and running with a companion dog. They found the practical tips and resources at the end of the book to be very helpful. Overall, the reviewer highly recommends this book to anyone starting their running journey, as it can be a supportive and encouraging companion.

Quick quotes

    What changes your life is the day-to-day stuff leading up to and following the events.

    I loved this quote: "What changes your life is the day-to-day stuff leading up to and following the events.

    For me running was catharsis, a way to move through grief.

kirkusreviews.com · Unknown · 2025-10-24
mixed 3.00

The book is a detailed account of the author's marathon training, which some found repetitive and lacking in depth on mental health. Others appreciated the practical running advice and the inspiring story of overcoming depression through running.

The book 'Up to Speed' by Christine Yu is a memoir that chronicles the author's journey from a sedentary lifestyle to completing a marathon. The narrative is filled with detailed descriptions of her training schedule, which some readers found to be more like a running log than an engaging story. The subtitle's promise of a deeper exploration of running with her dog was not fully met, leaving some readers disappointed. However, the book does offer practical advice on training, form, shoes, and hydration, which was appreciated by those interested in running. The author's struggle with mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, is a central theme. While some readers found the book inspiring and encouraging, others felt it lacked depth and humor, making it repetitive and dull. The author's candidness about her mental health journey is commendable, but the execution fell short for some, making the book a mixed bag of practical advice and personal struggle.

Quick quotes

    To be honest, this was kind of a slog to get through. I really admire the author for her determination and I'm also very aware of the effects of working out to mental health, so I understand how she felt.

    It's never easy for her. The inner voices discourage her at every step, and frequently send her back to bed or to long bouts of sobbing.

    I'm listening to it on audible when running, but i feel like she constantly complains about one ache or pain throughout the entire book.

ericafinds.com · Unknown · 2024-02-15
insightful 4.50

Up to Speed is a book that delves into the life of Christine Yu, offering a unique perspective on her journey. The book is praised for its engaging narrative and insightful commentary, making it a compelling read for those interested in personal growth and self-discovery.

Up to Speed by Christine Yu is a captivating exploration of her personal journey, filled with moments of introspection and growth. The book's narrative is both engaging and insightful, providing readers with a deep understanding of Yu's experiences and the lessons she has learned along the way. The writing style is accessible and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with the author's story. The book's themes of resilience and self-discovery are particularly noteworthy, as they offer valuable insights into the human condition. Overall, Up to Speed is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Quick quotes

    They found the book to be a refreshing and honest account of Yu's journey.

    The narrative is both engaging and insightful, providing readers with a deep understanding of Yu's experiences.

    The book's themes of resilience and self-discovery are particularly noteworthy.

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