Uncovering the life of a super human, ultra-marathon, vegan athlete. Yes, vegan.
4/5 stars
Hardcover, 272 pages.
Read from August 08 to 09, 2016.
“Sometimes you just do things.” – this line, from this novel has not left my brain since I read it. Not only has it popped up during some of my own difficult training runs but it has also helped me though some of the everyday realities of life. I could have said the everyday struggles of life, but that is putting a negative spin on the reality of life. Sometimes you just do things , and there isn’t any better truth than that.
Scott Jurek was an ordinary boy who grew into an extraordinary adult by committing to his beliefs and just doing what he believed he needed to do. Scott is one of the best ultra-marathoners in the world. Not only that, he is a vegan. Yes, it is true. This ultra-athlete contributes some of his success to his diet and shares with his readers that not only is veganism plausible for extreme athletes, but that it is also ideal. Yes, Scott has immense natural talent but the majority of his success come from his demeanor and attitude. This book is the story of Scott’s life, from the childhood that shaped him to his career as an ultra-marathoner.
Now I am not sure I have what it takes to be a vegan but Scott sure inspired me to push my limits. I have always wanted to run an ultra-distance race and this book solidified the belief that I could do one. It has also confirmed my own beliefs about eating real food for fuel. Every runner has to find what works best for them and I know for me, I can’t cope with the nasty tasting gels and some of the energy and protein bars that are provided to keep runners fueled during long distance runs. Now, I don’t know if I am ready to start hauling out my own hummus and pita breads on a run, but I will continue to make my own electrolyte drinks and will attempt to make some of my own fuel for my runs and races.
This isn’t just a book for runners though, as the book is full of outstanding, easy and realistic vegan recipes that anyone can use. Jurek ends every chapter with a delicious vegan recipe that is appealing to all types of eaters. That says a lot coming from me, as I do not cook. I snapped a few pictures of few recipes from this book, this is one of my favourites and I am looking forward to making it once the weather cools off:
I devoured this book. I remember when I read Born to Run, and just how much I loved it. Well, this book is infinitely better. For one, Jurek is a superior writer to McDougall and has a gift not only for running, but for writing. His story line is seamless and easy to follow, which is the biggest problem I had with McDougall’s book. Additionally, while you get all the details of Jurek’s personal life, he also gives you a detailed experience of his races and what goes through his head during these times. So if you want to be inspired and want to think like a world-class athlete, then read this book. Even if you are not a runner, you will appreciate the intensity, dedication and sheer willpower that Jurek exudes in his running as well as with his personal lifestyle choices.
Fortune favours the brave, and Jurek is one amazing example of this. If you have ever been curious about the vegan diet or how it works with athletes, become inspired, or just want to read an amazing story of human fortitude then this book is for you.
The Pluviophile Writer 
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