Amazon.com
There is a passage early in Augusten Burroughs's harrowing and highly entertaining memoir, Running with Scissors, that speaks volumes about the author. While going to the garbage dump with his father, young Augusten spots a chipped, glass-top coffee table that he longs to bring home. "I knew I could hide the chip by fanning a display of magazines on the surface, like in a doctor's office," he writes, "And it certainly wouldn't be dirty after I polished it with Windex for three hours." There were certainly numerous chips in the childhood Burroughs describes: an alcoholic father, an unstable mother who gives him up for adoption to her therapist, and an adolescence spent as part of the therapist's eccentric extended family, gobbling prescription meds and fooling around with both an old electroshock machine and a pedophile who lives in a shed out back. But just as he dreamed of doing with that old table, Burroughs employs a vigorous program of decoration and fervent polishing to a life that many would have simply thrown in a landfill. Despite her abandonment, he never gives up on his increasingly unbalanced mother. And rather than despair about his lot, he glamorizes it: planning a "beauty empire" and performing an a capella version of "You Light Up My Life" at a local mental ward. Burroughs's perspective achieves a crucial balance for a memoir: emotional but not self-involved, observant but not clinical, funny but not deliberately comic. And it's ultimately a feel-good story: as he steers through a challenging childhood, there's always a sense that Burroughs's survivor mentality will guide him through and that the coffee table will be salvaged after all. --John MoeBook Description
The #1 New York Times Bestseller An Entertainment Weekly Top Ten Book of the Year Now a Major Motion Picture Running with Scissors is the true story of a boy whose mother (a poet with delusions of Anne Sexton) gave him away to be raised by her unorthodox psychiatrist who bore a striking resemblance to Santa Claus. At the age of twelve, Burroughs found himself amidst Victorian squalor, living with the doctor's bizarre family, and befriending a pedophile who resided in the backyard shed. The story of an outlaw childhood where rules were unheard of, and the Christmas tree stayed up all year-round, where Valium was consumed like candy, and if things got dull, an electroshock therapy machine could provide entertainment. The funny, harrowing, and bestselling account of an ordinary boy's survival under the most extraordinary circumstances. Running with Scissors AcknowledgmentsGratitude doesn't begin to describe it: Jennifer Enderlin, Christopher Schelling, John Murphy, Gregg Sullivan, Kim Cardascia, Michael Storrings, and everyone at St. Martin's Press. Thank you: Lawrence David, Suzanne Finnamore, Robert Rodi, Bret Easton Ellis, Jon Pepoon, Lee Lodes, Jeff Soares, Kevin Weidenbacher, Lynda Pearson, Lona Walburn, Lori Greenburg, John DePretis, and Sheila Cobb. I would also like to express my appreciation to my mother and father for, no matter how inadvertently, giving me such a memorable childhood. Additionally, I would like to thank the real-life members of the family portrayed in this book for taking me into their home and accepting me as one of their own. I recognize that their memories of the events described in this book are different than my own. They are each fine, decent, and hard-working people. The book was not intended to hurt the family. Both my publisher and I regret any unintentional harm resulting from the publishing and marketing of Running with Scissors. Most of all, I would like to thank my brother for demonstrating, by example, the importance of being wholly unique. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (784)

The memoir that requires a suspension of disbelief
Midway through Burroughs' memoir, in a demonstration of perfect dramatic irony, the character Natalie suggests, "You really should write all this stuff down," to which the narrator replies, "Even if I did, nobody would believe it" (173).

Indeed, the entire book reads like a troubled tug-of-war between suspending one's disbelief and reminding oneself, disconcertingly, that these stories are actually based on real events. Each page contains a tale or anecdote slightly more disturbing than the next, until you eventually find yourself dwelling alongside the author in a demented world that bears only minimal resemblance to what was previously considered reality. Several of the narratives in this book are intriguing and even humorous, but in order to experience them you must also be willing to enter the sick and twisted parallel universe of Burroughs' childhood.

A word of warning to prospective readers: most of the chapters in this book will leave you with a squeamish or even outright dirty feeling; you certainly won't want to read it and eat something at the same time. And although I am glad I read Running With Scissors and enjoyed the writer's style and perspective, I'm not in any hurry to jump into the sequel.

Disturbing, but hilarious!
This book took me only a few hours to read. Although the story is much to stomach; believe me, this novel will have you engrossed the entire time.

Disturbingly funny
In this memoir, we follow the coming-of-age of Augustin Burroughs, a budding homosexual with narcissistic parents.His mother is a self absorbed amateur poet who thrives on her own inner chaos and his father is pretty much absent.Early on, he abandons Augustin and won't accept any of his collect phone calls.His mother, not only narcissistic, but bipolar and prone to fits of drama, gets into an unusual relationship with her shrink, a character even more outrageous than either of the two parents.Boundaries get blurred and Augustin is sent to live in a bizarre communal environment created by the psychiatrist, Dr. Finch and a collection of his patients and his own biological children.The remainder of the book details the various relationships between teenager Augustin and members of the Finch household, including his affair with a man 20 years his senior.

The characters in this soap opera are unforgettable.I had to keep reminding myself that this was a memoir, not a novel.These crazy people actually exist.And therein lies the thrall of this particular read.These are characters that should be paraded around on a Jerry Springer show, if for no other purpose, than to watch someone throw a chair at the entire lot of them.I would have felt better then.Alas, the only justification for any of this mayhem, is that Augustin exposed them for the pathetic batch of loonies they are.Oh, and Dr. Finch loses his license.But I would have rather seen him get pelted in the head with a chair.

Blaugh! Glad it was 1/2 price
Ok, I understand it was a memoir, but please...I can't imagine for a moment that the doctor was for real. It would have been pretty good but for so much silliness at the doctor's house. Some good parts, true, but for the most part, I was disappointed. I'm glad I didn't pay full price.
Linda

Disappointing and depressing
This book was given to me as a gift based on the comparison to David Sedaris.I discovered nonfiction humor a few years ago, greatly enjoying Sedaris, Jill Conner Browne and others who have turned mishaps in life into tales that delighted.

Life is disturbing and to be able to find humor in even the darkest moments is a gift.Burroughs has this gift, but these stories are too graphic, disturbing and depressing to make into humor.Mental illness and abuse are not funny.These are not mundane topics in which to find the light - there is no light.

I found the writing to be simple, straight forward and descriptive (sometimes too descriptive); however the style helped me to feel the voice of Burroughs as a teen - I felt it was appropriate and well written in that respect.He's telling these stories as they happened (or as he remembers) and expects you to laugh.

If you are able to find humor in funerals, traffic accidents and cancer, you may find it among these recollections, too.I did not and left hoping that he and all who were represented in the story were able to find help and heal. ... Read more

Book Description

Customer Reviews (15)

Resourceful and Motivational
This book has gotten me motivated to think about running in another marathon. I ran in one about 6 years ago and trained with a team. I love to run but have never been too serious about it. This book has good information for people who are getting back into it. I bought the book because I wanted the marathon training plan in it, but found it to be so much more than that. I wasn't planning on reading the book cover to cover at first, but overall it has kept me interested to do just that.

Excellent resource for the beginning runner
I am starting the Couch 2 5k program, but wanted to read something specific for women.This book is great for anyone who is thinking about running/wanting to get into running.I highly recommend it.

Runner's World Complete Book of Women's Running
This book is really great for someone who is a beginner.It really has a lot of great tools and information from how to move from a walk to a jog, a jog to start running, and how to train your body to run a marathon.

Everything You Need To Know
One of the best books on running and issues unique to women. Would recommend for all levels of runners from beginner to advanced.

wife loves it
my wife has begun running recently and says this is a great book.If she likes it im happy ... Read more

Book Description
More women than ever are discovering the unique benefits of running -- forstress relief, weight management, endurance, and self-esteem. Women'sbodies are not the same as men's, and though we can train just as hard andwith the same passion for excellence, we have certain special concerns.Finally, there is a comprehensive guide exclusively for women whoexperience the pure joy of running, or want to.

It's the simplest, fastest, most accessible way to fitness and good health known to woman. You don't need a partner, equipment, or even much time. Now, Claire Kowalchik, former managing editor of Runner's World magazine, answers every question about the overwhelmingly popular activity that builds endurance, melts fat, and even prevents illness. In this total running book for women, you'll learn:

• How to get started and stay motivated

• What to eat for optimal nutrition

• How to run during pregnancy and after menopause

• Why running is the most effective form of exercise

• How to prevent and treat injury

• What to wear -- from sports bras to running shoes

• How to prepare for everything from a 5K to a marathon

Authoritative and friendly, The Complete Book of Running for Women is a sourcebook for both beginners and long-time runners. Along with wisdom drawn from the author's personal experience, you'll find advice from the experts: coaches, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, doctors, and other women runners. Including question-and-answer sections and a complete list of resources, The Complete Book of Running for Women tells you everything you need to know to be off and running toward better health and richer living. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (51)

The Single Best Running Book for Women
In all respects, this book is a thoughtful and thorough reference piece for any new or experienced runner.After months of struggling with stomach pain after long runs, this book was the only one to offer me any sort of meaningful insights to the source and remedy for my stomach pain.I have shared this book with friends, who are new and old runners, and everyone that I have recommended this book to has appreciated the guidance and information detailed in the book.

Great book for any runner
I recently purchased this book for a friend and decided to get out my old copy to read again.

I forgot what a wealth of information it has. Everything from stretching to gear to training plans plus wonderful short articles by actual runners. It also has information specific to women's health and pregnancy.

If you are just starting out or don't consider yourself a runner, this book will inspire you. If you have been running for a while, this book can help you improve your PR or keep you motivated.

It has inspired me to get serious about running again and am looking forward to my first half-marathon later this year.

The BEST book for Runners beginner or advanced. . . .
I am a 30 year old mother of 3 and I wanted to start running again. When I was younger (beore kids) I ran daily and I wanted to gradually buid up to where I was nearly 10 years ago!! A friend referred me to this book and I loved every morsel of information from cover to cover. Nothing is left out! Buy the book, read it, change your life. . .then run a marathon baby!!

A keeper!
I really like this book because it has so much great info. I keep refering back to it every few days and there's an answer for every question that I have had. Also, I read it cover to cover and picked up answers to questions that I would not have thought to ask. The layout of the book makes it very easy to find what you are looking for. Definitely a keeper!

Good for beginners
This is a good book for beginning women runners. It has quite a bit of information, but not too much. The book is friendly/chatty. She tries to make running approachable for anyone. I even read parts of this book outloud to my husband. Good useful information. For most women who just want to take up running for fun, fitness, recreation this book will be sufficient. It has training plans for training for races, if you should choose to try racing. Also information about stretching, weight training and so on. However, if you decided to get "serious" about running and want to become competitive, you will outgrow this book. That's fine. It's a good stepping stone until you figure out what level you want to train at. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Ron McLarty has joined the ranks of writers of the quirky hero with The Memory of Running. His hero, Smithy Ide, is in the grand tradition of Ignatius J. Reilly of A Confederacy of Dunces and Quoyle of The Shipping News. What these gentlemen have in common is their lumpen-loser looks, their outsider status and their general befuddlement about the way the world works and their place in it.Smithy rises above them because of his self-effacing nature, his great capacity for love, his inability to show it and his endless willingness to forgive.

Smithy is a 279-pound, hard-drinking, chain-smoking, 43-year-old misfit who works in a G.I. Joe factory putting arms and legs on the action heroes. (How did McLarty come up with that?) He is also the most beguiling anti-hero to come into view in a long, long time. McLarty, an award-winning actor and playwright best known for his many appearances on TV in Law & Order, Sex and the City, The Practice, and Judging Amy, has added another star to his creative crown with this novel.

The first sentence of the book is: "My parents' Ford station wagon hit a concrete divider on U.S. 95 outside Biddeford, Maine, in August 1990." This tragic accident eventually claims both their lives. It is on the day of their funeral that Smithy finds a letter to his father about Bethany, his beloved and deeply troubled sister, stating that, "Bethany Ide, 51, died from complications of exposure... and she has since that time been in the Los Angeles Morgue West." Beautiful Bethany, given to taking off her clothes in public places, holding impossible poses for long periods of time, responding to voices that only she can hear, and disappearing for no known reason. This time, she has been gone for many years and now Smithy knows that she died destitute and alone.When he reads the letter, he is drunk, grief-stricken and, despite a house full of people, he is alone. He goes out to the garage to smoke and have another drink and spies his old Raleigh bicycle. He sits on it, flat tires and all, wheels it to the end of the driveway--and--Smithy doesn't know it yet, but he is going to ride a bicycle from Maine to Los Angeles to claim his sister's remains.

On the road he meets the good, the bad, and the really bad.He frequently calls Norma, the Ides' across-the-street neighbor, confined to a wheelchair for years, and always in love with him. He has never acknowledged nor returned her ardor, but he starts to count on her friendship during his travels. Their conversations are sweet and revelatory.McLarty has done a superb job of showing us who Smithy is and who he is becoming. It's a wonderful story told with great poignancy and humor. --Valerie RyanBook Description
Once in a great while, a story comes along that has everything: plot, setting, and, most important of all, the kind of characters that sweep readers up and take them on a thrilling, unforgettable ride. Well, get ready for Ron McLarty’s The Memory of Running because, as Stephen King wrote in Entertainment Weekly (Stephen King’s “The Pop of King” column for Entertainment Weekly), “Smithy is an American original, worthy of a place on the shelf just below your Hucks, your Holdens, your Yossarians.”

Meet Smithson “Smithy” Ide, an overweight, friendless, chain-smoking, forty-three-year-old drunk who works as a quality control inspector at a toy action-figure factory in Rhode Island. By all accounts, including Smithy’s own, he’s a loser. But when Smithy’s life of quiet desperation is brutally interrupted by tragedy, he stumbles across his old Raleigh bicycle and impulsively sets off on an epic journey that might give him one last chance to become the person he always wanted to be. As he pedals across America—with stops in New York City, St. Louis, Denver, and Phoenix, to name a few—he encounters humanity at its best and worst and adventures that are by turns hilarious, luminous, and extraordinary. Along the way, Smithy falls in love and back into life.

McLarty’s novel has already received significant attention for its unusual genesis as an audiobook. Now, in a major publishing event, Viking heralds the arrival of a major new voice in American fiction with his stunning debut, The Memory of Running. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (147)

Amazing
This book is a wonderful read. The whole family of characters in this book is one that I can relate to. It's one of those books to pick up on a rainy day when you've nothing else to do but read, because, honestly, you'll want to read it all the way through. It's definitely a five star book, and deserves all the recognition in the world. Pick it up and give it a try.

Five Star Review
Ron McLarty has that rare quality of deep-depth character development- I was so impressed with this work, I looked him up on the internet. No wonder, he has such insight. He's a character actor! I found The Memory of Running extremely well written and riveting.

I made a list of people I wanted to read this book
An amazing work - riveting and incredibly insightful on family and social dynamics.Hard to believe what could be a very depressing life story left me feeling hopeful and inspired. I left it at a sibling's house with a list of others siblings (I have 10 total) who I hope will read it.

Running
I picked up this book in my Grocery Store for 1.79 (marked down from 6.99) I also chose it for its cover and title (being a runner!) I had no idea what was in store for me and at the end I just started crying and was filled with hope all at the same time.This is a wonderful book.In my head I tried to think what was it about:hope, love, schizophrenia, betrayal, false judgment, obesity, exercise, faith, humanity, death, family ties, simplicity, AIDS, quests, but in the end Love triumphs and in the most wonderful simple and quiet way.Some saw it as a tragedy because of the death at either end, I saw it as life as it should be: we often are asleep (dead if you will) to life. Escaping.Smithy learns through tragedy of course (and as it often happens) to stop sleeping and embrace life and then love. READ THE BOOK.

Great book!
Well this book may not be a literary masterpiece but it is none the less a wonderful book.If you've every felt a little lost in your own life I think you will find this book inspirational. ... Read more

Book Description
More mushrooms, less pollution! Yes, you heard right: growing more mushrooms may be the best thing we can do to save the environment. Microscopic cells called "mycelium"—the fruit of which are mushrooms —recycle carbon, nitrogen, and other essential elements as they break down plant and animal debris in the creation of rich new soil. What fungi expert Paul Stamets has discovered is that mycelium also breaks down hydrocarbons —the base structure in many pollutants. So, for instance, when soil contaminated with diesel oil is inoculated with strains of oyster mushroom mycelia, the soil loses its toxicity in just eight weeks. In MYCELIUM RUNNING, Stamets discusses this revolutionary trend in mushroom cultivation and provides tips for choosing the appropriate species of fungi for various environmental purposes. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Very well put together book!
This book is clearly written, well illustrated, filled with relevant background and detail and a variety of important angles on the use of mushroom.While my primary interest was food, I have already taken up the call of site remediation using mushrooms.The authors experimental results are off the chart.Natural selection for digesting the nastiest of manmade toxins, oil and selectively destroying destructive pests and all in his repertoire.And yes, there are lots of great ones to eat...

Help myceliate our world
I have read Mycelium Runing and I found it to be an inspiring read. Mr. Stamets goes into philosophies about the innate intelligence of mycelia and mushrooms and how we can befriend them and recruit them to restore our world and break down toxic chemicals. I think of fungal intelligence as chemical expertise. The fungi can figure out how to break down just about anything, including nerve gas and diesel. The book goes into how to start growing your own musrooms and to use them for restoration of damaged areas, as well as for re-establishing forests. I am a permaculturist,and this book is a very useful addition to my libraery of practical books with high information content.

Mushrooms saving the world?
The title suggests that mushrooms can solve the world's problems, and that sounds a little hard to believe.But fact is that the authors put so much knowledge about the growing habits of mushrooms in this book that it can indeed be used to solve problems.For example, the authors mention recovery of burnt areas as well as the absorption of spilled oil.

The book on the whole is impressive and full of knowledge, as wel as beautifully illustrated.Anyone considering to grow mushrooms should read it; and practitioners of permaculture are certainly advised to get this book.

we can save the world
This book is so fascinating, if u even have the slightest interest in mushrooms, or any type of fungi then this is the book to get.Paul stamets answers any question anyone would ever have about fungi, and who would have thought that mushrooms, play such an important role in mother nature.You will be stunned by the information in this book.So if u want a good read with lots of facts and lots of very interesting information then this is the book for you.

Should be Required Reading
This book is incredible.If more people read this book, there could be an ecological revolution.

The reader will not go a page in this book without a "What?? No Way!!" kind of moment.I found myself laughing simply at how amazingly effective and important mushrooms can be.

Mushrooms can help save the world."Mycelium Running" should be a high school textbook. ... Read more

Book Description
Get in the best shape of your running career with the scientifically based training in Daniels' Running Formula. In the book that Runner's World magazine called "the best training book," premier running coach Jack Daniels provides you with his proven VDOT formula to guide you through training at exactly the right intensity to become a faster, stronger runner.

Choose from the red, white, blue, and gold programs to get into shape, target a race program, or regain conditioning after a layoff or injury. Race competitively with programs for 800 meters, 1500 meters to 3000 meters, cross country races, 5K to 15K, and half-marathon up to the marathon. Each program incorporates the right mix of the five training intensities to help you build endurance, strength, and speed, and Daniels' intensity point system makes it easy to track the time you spend at each level.

The formula can be customized to your current fitness level and the number of weeks you have available for training, and it provides the perfect solution for short training seasons. Get the results you're seeking every time you lace up your shoes for a training run or race with the workouts and programs detailed in Daniels' Running Formula. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (64)

Great running book
I'm an old, but fairly serious competitive runner.Book was great set of routines to get faster without getting injured.Not as encyclopedic as Noakes', Lore of Running, but this is the book I will use to set my training schedule.

Solid, if dry, textbook on running
Every now and again I get back in the running habit.And what with it being so long since I've done any formal training and not being able to afford an actual coach, I usually call on my Brooklyn Road Runners Club buddies to recommend a decent training book.

Turns out Jack Daniels, the author of the book they recommended, lives less than an hour from where I spent my summer in 2006, in upstate New York. Not that it did me any good, as he's almost 80 years old and not taking in new athletes. Too busy taking in new wives, I guess - the newest one is as young as I am and has borne him a child that probably can't remember when her father wasn't farting dust.

But I digress. Geriatric standing aside, he's written the running book I've always wanted to find - very little of the confessional, running-as-spiritual-quest crap or Runner's World-style product mongering of the newest insoles or energy gels - just distance-specific training plans, time conversation tables, and scientific (as far as I know) reasoning for all of his advice.

There is some padding throughout - the "Training Essentials" unit is kind of general and not very useful, he puts runner's profiles at the end of each section that are uniformly dry and uninspiring ("Sara's ability to graciously accept both success and disappointment, her resolve to take one day at a time, and the faith we both share make me a fan of hers," "It's amazing how favorably his lab tests results compare to those of Jim Ryun"), and the "Training for Fitness" seems to have been added after the rest of the book was written just to get people who've never run before started. Come to think of it, some people may get something out of that section; I didn't even read it.

Overall though, a great textbook - easy to read, what's useful is easy to pick out, and the inevitable padding is easy to page through. So, like all good textbooks, the key word is "easy."

The definitive training book
Comprehensive, clearly written explanation of the physiology and psychology of training and competing at all levels. For all serious, even if not elite, runners. Encouraging and inspiring.

Daniel's running formula is great
This is a great book. It addresses the basic problem that most runners have when looking for workouts. All runners are different and have varied abilities. Strength of the book is learning how to target your workouts so that you can get the most out of them. The science is a bit wordy, but the concepts are great.

Great Book - Always helpful
I previously owned this book and my dog literally ate it, but it was so good that I am buying it again.I competed in corss country and trackall four years in college and I was tremendously successful for the mileage that I ran.My coach's approach was based on the Jack Daniels' approach.In my opinion, this book is a good written summary of an intuitive system.It is also a system that let's you get the most out of every mile run - without running hard every mile.Finally, the tables in back that help you figure out the various paces at which you should train are invaluable.They would also be tremendously helpful for anyone coaching an athlete. ... Read more

Book Description
By age twelve, Luis Rodriguez was a veteran of East L.A. gang warfare. Lured by a seemingly invincible gang culture, he witnessed countless shootings, beatings, and arrests, then watched with increasing fear as drugs, murder, suicide, and senseless acts of street crime claimed friends and family members.

Before long, Rodriguez saw a way out of the barrio through education and the power of words and successfully broke free from years of violence and desperation. Achieving success as an award-winning Chicano poet, he was sure the streets would haunt him no more -- until his son joined a gang. Rodriguez fought for his child by telling his own story in Always Running, a vivid memoir that explores the motivations of gang life and cautions against the death and destruction that inevitably claim its participants. At times heartbreakingly sad and brutal, Always Running is ultimately an uplifting true story, filled with hope, insight, and a hard-learned lesson for the next generation. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (177)

Almost too realistic, yet a must read.
I heard this book was good, but didn't know how good it actually was until I read it.There isn't a dull page.

What's most alarming about the book is not necessarily the events that take place, as many movies about this lifestyle have been made since the book's first publishing, sort of numbing the harsh realities of gang life to even outsiders who grew up in secluded suburbs, but the age that Luis Rodriguez actually is when the events are taking place.Some of the day to day drama described in the book is so adult like that you can only picture the subjects of these tales being 18 to 25 years old, yet the reader is often reminded that the author was as young as 14 when some of them took place.

What may also separate the stories told in this book from the stories told in typical 1990s west coast gang folklore, from hip hop to film to books like 'Monster', is the sexual situations Mr. Rodriguez describes that he took part in and witnesses, again, in some cases as young as 14.Some are romantic, and almost remind the reader of a time when romance was first discovered in their lives, yet there are some that are so disturbing that the reader is quickly brought down to earth, reminded that love and romance in a violent, drug infested environment is far different from the kind most Americans have grown to know, that is dictated by Hollywood fairy tales.

Luis Rodriguez finding his outlet from the gang life through art and writing could give hope to any current gang member who happens upon this book.It's one thing for a suburban high school teacher to tell a 'homeboy' that he can express his views through art, it's another for an older 'homeboy' himself to tell him.

A must read for everyone, from suburbanites with little knowledge of the gang life who would like another version than that given by media outlets and law enforcement agencies, where the knowledge tends to be limited to crime reporting and identification of territories and monikers, to kids and adults wrapped up in the gang life, and just looking for any story that can inspire them or give them some kind of direction to a better life.

The Definitive Account of Barrio Life.
What more is needed to say about this memoir? This is singlehandedly one of the most powerful memoirs I have ever read and that goes without saying. I was born and raised in the San Gabriel Valley, the same one that Rodriguez builds and describes and I can honestly say he is completely spot on. About? Everything. The racial, identity, and sexual struggle that Rodriguez weaves in this story is compelling and really grabbed me and immersed me into his life. This memoir says what there is to be said, and it says a lot.

best book ever
this os the best book i have ever read next to tommyland very different but bolth very good books

Poorly written
I suppose one of the editorial reviews summed it up nicely.

"...Mexican funerals, rapes and arrests, but his writing style renders much of that rich material forgettable."
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

I was very much interested in the topic, yet the rambling, writing style ofLuis Rodriguez
made for a disappointing experience.

Always Running
We believe that every teen should be given the opportunity to read Always Running. Luis J. Rodriguez grew up in East L.A in the 60's and 70's. This book is his life story describing all the situations he went thru as a cholo; the sex, drugs, violence, and parties. His style of writing is hypnotizing due to the vivid descriptions that create an amazing picture in your mind. As a result, you won't want to put the book down. However, readers beware; Always Running contains graphic descriptions that some readers may find as inappropriate. ... Read more

Amazon.com
The recurring metaphor in The Inmates are Running the Asylum is that of the dancing bear--the circus bear that shuffles clumsily for the amusement of the audience. Such bears, says author Alan Cooper, don't dance well, as everyone at the circus can see. What amazes the crowd is that the bear dances at all. Cooper argues that technology (videocassette recorders, car alarms, most software applications for personal computers) consists largely of dancing bears--pieces that work, but not at all well. He goes on to say that this is more often than not the fault of poorly designed user interfaces, and he makes a good argument that way too many devices (perhaps as a result of the designers' subconscious wish to bully the people who tormented them as children) ask too much of their users. Too many systems (like the famous unprogrammable VCR) make their users feel stupid when they can't get the job done.

Cooper, who designed Visual Basic (the programming environment Microsoft promotes for the purpose of creating good user interfaces), indulges in too much name-dropping and self-congratulation (Cooper attributes the quote, "How did you do that?" to Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, upon looking at one of Cooper's creations)--but this appears to be de rigueur in books about the software industry. But those asides are minor. More valuable is the discourse about software design and implementation ("[O]bject orientation divides the 1000-brick tower into 10 100-brick towers."). Read this book for an idea of what's wrong with UI design. --David Wall

Topics covered: User interfaces--good ones and bad ones--and where they come from. Also, how to improve the ones you create.Book Description

Imagine, at a terrifyingly aggressive rate, everything you regularly use is being equipped with computer technology. Think about your phone, cameras, cars-everything-being automated and programmed by people who in their rush to accept the many benefits of the silicon chip, have abdicated their responsibility to make these products easy to use. The Inmates Are Running the Asylum argues that the business executives who make the decisions to develop these products are not the ones in control of the technology used to create them.Insightful and entertaining, The Inmates Are Running the Asylum uses the author's experiences in corporate America to illustrate how talented people continuously design bad software-based products and why we need technology to work the way average people think. Somewhere out there is a happy medium that makes these types of products both user and bottom-line friendly; this book discusses why we need to quickly find that medium.

Customer Reviews (132)

No Cognitive Friction Here..
Alan Cooper gives the reader insight into why so many of today's technological products frustrate and confuse users.Yet he goes past this to discuss a methodology for keeping it simple and designing for the user i.e. avoiding cognitive friction.This book has changed the way I will develop products and should be a must read for product managers of application developers.Just learning Mr. Cooper's vocabulary is worth the read.The ideas such as personas, keywords, and designing for an individual push the book way above average.This is an easy read that should be done in your spare time if you want to avoid cognitive friction with your users.It has changed the way I view technology and brought a new awareness to thoughtless technology implementation which often cause failure or misuse.The only reason I gave this book a 4 out of 5 as I feel it could have been reduced a little bit more, certain points I felt like the author was rambling about personal fustrations.

an essential handbook for designing software
Cooper's argument in this book is simple: you have to know your users, and you have to understand what they're trying to accomplish with your software.The method that he puts forth for achieving this understanding is personas, richly-described archetypical users.

The book is easy to read and understand.He begins with a detailed description of the problem with software design as carried about by programmers who can only imagine themselves as the users of their software, resulting in software that makes really difficult things possible but doesn't bother to make easy or common things quick and easy.

After making the argument that programmers shouldn't design interfaces and making the case both for usability and interaction design, he lays out the personas concept.Cooper's guidelines for creating personas and using them are well-written and well-thought-out.However, his examples of applying them to some of his own customers are rather repetitive, and sometimes come across as somewhat whiny.

Now that it's time for my group at Microsoft to revisit our personas and determine what needs to be tweaked for our next version, I decided that I should revisit the book that first advanced the idea.It has stood up well to the test of time (something that not many computer books can do).I highly recommend it, both to usability and design professionals, as well as programmers.

Great writing, very illustrative examples, definitely not a detailed how-to
The strength of this book its clear and easy-to-read writing. Cooper's examples are instructive and the theory of why design-centric business approaches are the most powerful. It's supposed to be a business-case book but I'm quite sure all programmers and even designers would find the read very worthwhile.

My only wish for the book would be that Chapter 10 onwards seemed to be the really exciting stuff, detailing the how more than the why of design-centric approaches. This part feels like a rushed summary in comparison the the attention paid to the why aspect in the rest of the book. You may want to consider Cooper's newly revised "how" book although it is mainly a designer's handbook: About Face 3: The Essentials of Interaction Design

I'm not done with that About Face 3: The Essentials of Interaction Design but I'm starting to worry it's going to leave me wishing it had more specific methodologies as opposed to theories. Of course, it has much more methodological attention than The Inmates Are Running the Asylum: Why High Tech Products Drive Us Crazy and How to Restore the Sanity (2nd Edition) and there's no fault in what is written, only in what is omitted.

If you're really looking for the ultimate how-to, you might want to consider attending the four-day "Cooper U". Case in point: I had the chance to ask Alan Cooper where I could learn more about how to create the design documents he writes about in the last part of The Inmates Are Running the Asylum: Why High Tech Products Drive Us Crazy and How to Restore the Sanity (2nd Edition) and he really couldn't say what books would be able to instruct that (including his own) and that it would be covered in his course.

this book changed my life
I was a well-paid systems administrator/help desk guy until I read this book.This book really did inspire me to change careers!

The book basically outlines why engineers (and people who think like engineers) are INCAPABLE of designing effective interfaces. It delves into specifics and supplies some great examples.

I am amused by some of the reviewers here who display the same sort of arrogant contempt that the book outlines.OF COURSE programming a VCR is easy for YOU--you're a person with an "engineer mind".My mom can't program a VCR at all, and that's not because she didn't try hard enough or read the instructions.She can't use it because everything about it's interface is counter-intuitive to someone who does not understand machine/code logic.

Just because it's easy for you doesn't mean it doesn't stink.Just because it makes sense to you doesn't mean it can't be made better--to work intuitively for "regular" people.Buy this book.Read it.Demand more from your products.It's time to end the insanity.

Blown out of proportion
It's true that some products have poor interfaces, but in my experience this "problem" is blown way out of proportion with reality.The only people I know who couldn't figure out how to program their VCRs were people who did not try for more than 5 minutes.Read the instructions, both in the book and onscreen, and VCR programming is a snap, from the earliest models to today.

I think the real question should be:Why are so many users so lazy?This is more of a social problem than a technological one.Some think that if any effort is required to learn how to use a new device then it's poorly designed.Poppycock! ... Read more

Book Description
Revised, expanded and updated, Lore of Running gives you incomparable detail on physiology, training, racing, injuries, world-class athletes, and races.

Author Tim Noakes blends the expertise of a physician and research scientist with the passion of a dedicated runner to answer the most pressing questions for those who are serious about the sport:

·How your body systems respond to training, the effects of different training methods, how to detect and avoid overtraining, and genetic versus trainable potential

·How to train for the 10K up through ultramarathon with detailed programs from Noakes and several leading running experts

·How to prevent and treat injuries and increase your strength and flexibility for maximum performance

The book provides a fascinating look at the legendary figures and events in running history. And that's just scratching the surface. Lore of Running is not only the biggest and best running publication on the planet. It's the one book every runner should own. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (34)

Comprehensive Overview of Running, but with Noakes' specific views as well.
This is a broad, sweeping view of running, primarily from the marathon and up. Noakes covers history, physiology, current runners, ethnographic issues, and several other topics. It is very readable and each chapter is well edited, so that it can stand alone.

Noakes own views also comes through - over-training did in Bedford and Hill. My only comment is that over-training does in every runner, but perhaps this is the cost of burning brighter rahter than longer.

There are several other subjects that can be lumped into all the other various purveyors of training thought - Hadd, Lydiard, Daniels, Canova. They are all directly or indirectly addressed here.

This is the ONLY comprehensive text touching on virtually the entire spectrum of issues surrounding running which I have found. Noakes has his opinions, but this in no way detracts from this fine read.

Lore of Running
VERY detailed and explains WHY certain training recommendations are made.I'm a physician and was surprised how technical this book was.If you are not scientifically minded, this is still a great reference, but do not plan to read this cover to cover unless you took a lot of biology in college. I have used this book for help with an injury and the recommendations and explanations seem very sound.If you are merely looking for training schedules, there are other places to find them, but this book has a wide variety of "formulas" for race preparation. For serious runners, this book is a bargain.Probably cheaper and more useful than any running shoes or other equipment you are putting on your wish list.

Thorough look at the science and practice of running
Noakes's book on the "Lore of Running" covers just about everything, from what happens inside your muscles to training plans for various races, from biographies of great runners to how to stretch. Noakes seems to be writing both for the runner who wants a deeper understanding of the sport, and for the runner's trainer.

Despite the specialized nature of some of the subject matter, Noakes's writing is quite readable. If you like endurance reading and endurance running, treat yourself to this book.

Phenomenal book on running, best I've come across.
I have been reading about running for the past couple of years--probably more than I ought to. I came upon this book recently in the library (most of my reading is online!) and upon poring through its pages have realized that a lot of what I've read either came from this book, or this book has a lot of what I've read in it. Noakes has written this tome relying upon the best science we have for running with all of its available studies. He bases his conclusions and statements on journal articles where possible and where not does not go overboard in conjecture.

He is an accomplished marathoner and ultra marathoner and in his practice has treated a lot of runners.

Go ahead and buy any book on running. It will have a section on nutrition with the basics that we all know. Contrast with the nutrition section in this and it's actually worth reading; he spends many pages on such details as the proper sodium levels in a beverage, the amount of liquid we need to drink while exercising (not the vague catch-all of "drink as much as you sweat"). His guides on injury and footware are the best researched I've found anywhere.

This is not just the best book on running I've seen, it's the best book _by far_.

I slight this book in two areas:

1) Injury treatment seems to be really slanted substantially toward footwear and orthotics. Now, there may be a reason for that I'm not aware of, and he does give time to exercises and "holistic" approches for injury prevention, including training the hips for, say, a knee problem and not just the feet, but I would have just preferred a bit more.

2) Running technique. He describes in detail the typical heel-strike of most runners but doesn't spend much time that I have found on particulars of technique, such as possibly forefooting or midfooting. Bits and pieces are throughout the book in this, but a subsection on what is now in vogue (pose technique, chirunning, etc.) would have been nice. I don't know that it's reasonable to dismiss these simply because he feels they're useless; I feel like he missed out.

That said, I really can't stress enough how much solid, quality stuff is in this book. He's not simply taking what "everyone knows" about running and making a thousand pages out of it; he does go into meaningful detail.

Finally...
... A book that comprehensively covers the physiology and biochemistry of running. The volume is exceptionally well written, also a first for a book about the science and theory of running. There are some issues with redundancy and some parts of the book that seem a little out of place (training plans to Walk/Run a 5k?). I think if the reader is interested in this level of detail, that they have most likely been running for some time. Some reviewers complain about the long chapter on the history of great runners. The book is, however, called the "Lore" of running - not the 'science of running.' I found that particular chapter to be especially motivating, personally. As the tagline suggests, this book is a MUST for the serious runner or coach. ... Read more

Book Description
The national bestseller, described by Tom Brokaw as the 'wake-up call we cannot ignore,' with a new preface by the author Acclaimed by all sides of the political spectrum, Peter Peterson's Running on Emptynot only traces the deterioration of America's finances but offers solutions. This national bestseller is required reading for everyone concerned with America's long-term economic survival. In clear andconcise prose, Peterson offers America not only a vision but the practical steps by which to ensure our children's economic future. Running on Emptyis not only a warning, it is also a manifesto calling for the next administration to finally confront a deep and disturbing problem that politicians of all parties have insisted on ignoring for too long. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (58)

A political manifesto we can not ignore
This is a very important book; it will shake you out of your complacency.The author urges us all, Republicans and Democrats, to take action in order to stem the coming economic debacle.Mr. Peterson explains how the aging of our society along with our numerous entitlements (especially those arising from Medicare and Social Security) and the senseless tax cuts that have been enacted, are jeopardizing America's future.We have become an indebted society with no will to make the sacrifices that are called for in order to bring back health into our collective finances.

You will find in this book a sober assessment of our current political and economic situation, which is a dismal one, and, the author's proposals for bringing change about.Mr. Peterson is, in my opinion, a true patriot, the kind of decent person that inspires us all.

My only objection to this book is that the economic arguments are somewhat difficult to follow (at least for a layman like me).

An economics book that isn't boring
Peter G. Peterson's book "Running on Empty: How the Democratic and Republican parties are bankrupting our future and what Americans can do about it" is a very informative as well as instructive book on how "twin deficits" is destroying our nation for our children.U.S. budget deficit and America's current-account deficit is posing a challenge to Baby Boomers and Generation Xers to make sacrifices that seem foreign to our current culture.He asks "Where are the Pearl Harbor" generation who sacrificed everything for the good of the nation?"Peterson talks about how supply side economics has become the primary thought process on how our government treats deficits.It is the belief that as the economy grows, deficits don't matter but it does.Our "pay as you go" Social Security program cannot be sustainable due to a smaller working force (input versus output).Worse than Social Security is our Medicare program which is more than doubled the size of Social Security.Peterson argues that both political parties are making things worse by Republicans constantly giving American's tax cuts and the Democrats constantly giving us entitlements.He asks who among us is willing to not only raise taxes, but cut benefits at the same time.It is a sacrifice that must be done.In the end, Peterson encourages us to be more active in politics and be willing to live within our means.Only through awareness and participation will politicians take a stand on this matter.

If only the politicians would read it
An incredible look at the true fiscal situation in America and how the politicians are driving us bankrupt through their "buying" of votes through the constant creation of "programs" for the public that fail to improve anything.The author is non-partisan in his analysis, putting the blame squarely on BOTH parties, which is where it belongs.If you can think for yourself, and not buy the lines from the unions, special interests and large corporations, this will be an enjoyable and educational read!

Everyone should read this book.
Although Peterson is a Republican, his explanation about the legacy of debt we are passing on to our children is bipartisan.Peterson realizes that there is ample blame to spread between both parties!Our country's lack of fiscal responsibility and logical fiscal thinking will cost our country its future if something radical is not done soon.While attacking Social Security is unspeakable, we are rapidly approaching a time when we will have to apply a needs test to receiving benefits.Our current form of patchwork health care is costing us far more money in the long run than creating an intelligent form of universal health care ever could.The war in Iraq is also destroying our economic future as is the cost of a college education.Although as someone noted, Peterson's solutions were far too brief, his willingness to address these issues with clarity will hopefully serve the purpose of driving partisan discussions and creating a desire to reform the systems that will financially destroy our country.

Time for updated edition
This is another essential book in the runup to 2008 primaries and elections (* three others are listed below), as it confronts the economic elephant in America's room that threatens our futures and those of our children and grandchildren.

While the book is nearly three years old and ready for an update, the conclusion today is overwhelming: We are facing a crisis, and whoever wins the presidency in 2008 must create a coalition government beholden to no political theology. This government must divorce itself from Republican and Democratic orthodoxies. The parties have fed on each other in a destructive way. The Republicans tax too little and the Democrats spend too much, and they have borrowed the worst from each other and corrupted responsible governance in countless ways. The bill is past due, and the evidence is inescapable.

It is not pretty reading, damns both parties in equal measure, and points toward solutions, particularly a fairer tax system on corporate profits and urgent rethinking of entitlements.


Pete Peterson brings serious credibility to the discussion, not only as a University of Chicago-schooled fiscal conservative, but as co-founder of the Blackstone Group, chair of the Council on Foreign Relations and a principal in the Concord Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to fiscal responsibility at www.concordcoalition.org.

This book kept a small group of us awake in early 2005 after we heard and met Mr. Peterson at a conference at the United Nations, read the book and compared notes. Revisiting this book today, the message is more urgent than ever, and the paperback edition is in sore need of an update, at the very least in the introduction and postscript. The evidence is doubtless more dire than it was, but we need to hear it, particularly as our credit markets wobble.

In the current environment, neither party's candidates show real signs of confronting Peterson's formidable evidence. While the Democrats at least show early signs of grappling with issues, they deserve further prodding.

The Republican party is deep into its decadent phase, with Bush-Cheney-Rove the agents of its moral and intellectual bankruptcy. Ron Paul is at least providing some coherent ideas amid the poseurs of the moment and John McCain knows better, but neither is swaying anything.

Since 1980, when Republican congressional candidates drew the Laffer curve on napkins to demonstrate their mastery of economic quackery, the party has grown increasingly faith-based, denying evidence in the fervor of a theological belief in tax cuts.

Those cuts made proven sense after Reagan cut marginal tax rates from 71 to 50 percent, but no sense at all as Bush cuts into the bone in the low 30s and tries to make it permanent as bridges, highways, our military and trust funds go wanting and as we borrow more from the Chinese to fund our spendthrift ways.

The first step toward recovery of our bearings is facing what is. Every candidate in 2008 should be closely questioned about the evidence from Peterson and the COncord Coalition. One prays that the winner of the next election would look beyond our short-term, infotainment-driven culture of the moment, and just Do The Right Thing to keep our country strong and free at this late hour.

* P.S.: The other three books: Tragic Legacy by Glenn Greenwald (the best book on the consequences of the Bush regime's mindset); Vice: Dick Cheney and the Hijacking of the American Presidency by Lou Dubose and Jake Bernstein, and Second Chance by Zbigniew Brzrezinski (a powerful foreign policy primer on the last three administrations, with some roadmaps of solutions). ... Read more

Customer Reviews (49)

Runner's Handbook has a great plan.
I cannot imagine being a successful beginning runner without a plan like those presented in this book.I have tried running before, but with this book, I have been much more successful.It was a great find!

excellent guide
The book has been a great guide for me on how to recover the fit condition I once had, step by step, and without the risk of injury. I have recently started the training program and already feel improvement. The motivation and anti-excuse propositions the book offers for beginner runners really get you to move. A good compilation of medical and technical information support the suggested programs, so it gives you a lot of confidence in what you are doing and what to expect from the exercise.

The authority on Running
Probably the most comprehensive book on running that I have ever seen.Not to mention it was without any pressure, Bob and group were relaxed about how things should be done, I never felt like I was pressured to run in a certain way or speed.Helped me to get back into running again.Thanks everyone.

Wonderful motivator
I will not bother going on and on about the book, since there is already such an overwhelmingly positive collection of reviews.

Suffice it to say, this book really kick-started by love of running, and was filled with everything the beginner needs to know.

While it could use illustrations for good stretches, for example, it is still the classic keystone in any runners library, and strongly recommended!

Probably the only running reference you'll need
If you have any sort of interest in running, I can't recommend any book more enthusiastically than this one. Although it may seem strange to get a book about running--I mean, what is there to it, right? But it turns out there are a couple of good reasons to pick up a book on running: one, it's motivating; two, there is a ton of useful information crammed into this book. It will be the only running reference you'll ever really need.

With over 700 pages, this isn't a lightweight book. It truly is about as comprehensive as you can imagine, and will serve most runners more than sufficiently. It is an oddly engaging read, sucking you into the world of running (or jogging) while giving you all sorts of information you never even thought you could need. Everything the beginner could need is covered, from the minutae of day-to-day running (track etiquitte, cold weather clothing, eating, and on and on) to larger topics like training plans and moving into competitive racing. The book will take you all the way through intermediate running--which Glover defines as regular sustained running, maybe with an occasional race thrown in. If you are already an experienced or regular runner, you will probably find this less useful than the true beginner. However, no one but the most experienced coach would be unable to learn something from this book. Just be aware that it is geared towards the recreational runner; if you are looking for a reference specific to competitive running, you should look elsewhere.

There are 42 chapters in the book, divided into 12 major sections: Fitness, Getting Fit, Training, Racing, Equipment, Food and Drink for Health and Energy, The Running Environment, Running Lifestyle, Special Runners, Illness and Injury, Running Form and Supplemental Training, and Wellness. The three chapters in the Fitness section give you basic information about what exercise and fitness are and why all of us ought to get out there and move a bit more. The third chapter outlines various ways to measure your own current level of fitness, providing a useful set of technique that you can come back to as your level of fitness improves (with your running, of course). The chapters in the next continue along this same vein, first dealing with getting started on a fitness regime (rather relaxed or intense) and then keeping yourself motivated enough to stick with it. The principles of exercise are outlined, with an entire chapter devoted to the important three-part model: warm-up, run, and cool-down. The last chapter in the Getting Fit section is called "The Fit Prescription: How Often? How Fast? How Far?" This is an important chapter, since beginners do often struggle with finding the right balance, either overdoing it and burning out, or not working hard enough to get the desired results. The last section in the book, Wellness, goes into more depth on all of these ideas. The chapters cover a holistic approach to health and fitness, the cardiovascular aspects of running, stress and weight management. The final chapter, "Running Inside Your Head", deals more emotional aspects of running: how it can help with depressions, anxiety, self-esteem, and creative thinking, and finally moving onto the infamous "runner's high". It's an interesting read.

Parts III and IV take the ideas of the last chapter of Section II and run with them. In part III, Training, you will learn how to keep a good runner's diary and find three running training programs: beginner's, advanced beginner's (for more running-experienced readers), and intermediate. Glover helps readers identify which program (and where in the program) they ought to begin. He also convincingly argues for patience in building up ability before trying to progress. Then in Section Iv, he talks to both those who may be interested in moving into competitive running, and those who may just like more structured goals. Racing isn't always about competition, for instance. So he addresses both frequent 5k races and marathons, giving the reader many ideas of why they may want to participate in either. Finally, there is a chapter on the importance of speed training, which will be useful to any runner who wants to learn to run faster, for whatever reason. Part XI, Running Form and Supplemental Training, gives four chapters with further training information, and serves as a great supplement to those who have mastered.

Three sections of the book deal with wider running lifestyle issues, including Part VI (Food and Drink for Health and Energy), Part VIII (Running Lifestyle), and Part X (Illness and Injury). The section on food and drink includes chapters on basic nutrition as relates to running, food and drink that serves as running-specific "fuel", and the importance on good hydration in running. The Running Lifestyle part covers safety, running while traveling, managing time (as in life in general, and working running in), and the importance of balancing running with life and work. Part X addresses two issues that we'd rather be able to ignore, but shouldn't . Illness is just a human thing, and sometimes it's best to not run--Glover will convince you whan that's the case. Injury is a similar issue, as we will inevitably get hurt at some point, and while we can sometimes work through things, more often than not we will be better served to allow ourselves to heal.

The remaining sections deal with more specific, and generally pragmatic, issues. Part V, Equipment, discusses running shoes and apparel and how to choose what is best for you. These obviously aren't going to give you extremely personalized information, but the important things for you to consider are all identified. You will feel much more confident the next time you go into a running shoe store. The Running Environment, Part VII, covers environmental issues, which are very import for runners. After all, most of the time, we're running outside. People tend to overdress for cold weather, and Glover gives numerous tips for avoiding this (and he will make you much more comfortable giving cold weather running a shot if you're still a bit intimidated). The chapter on hot weather running is also very important, andprovides readers with better ideas of how to manage hydration and exhaustion in uncomfortable climates. There is also a chapter on handling the unpredictability of weather in general. Finally, the ninth section offers four chapters on specific categories of runners: women runners (including an interesting history of women and running, health issues specific to women that may impact running, like osteoporosis, pregnancy, and menopause); older runners (covering the impact that agining in general can have on running as well as the benefits); runners with specific health or physical limitations (including topics such as chronic health conditions like asthma, arthritis, or diabetes, as well as other phsyical issues such as hearing and visual impairments); and younger (child) runners (covering both running with kids in strollers and health and safety issues specific to child runners, reminding us that "children are not minature adults").

As some of the other reviewers have alluded to, this is a strangely addictive and exciting book. You wouldn't think so (I certainly did not). But the writing is excellent, and a very nice balance between a packed informative tone and an amusing anecdotal style is maintained throughout. Glover knows how to motivate, and if you are like me, you will find yourself reading this entire book in a series of sizable chunks, and then going back later and rereading parts as your running experience expands. You've got to take some breaks to actually run, right? I can sum up my opinion of this book with one simple statement: if you are the least bit interested in running, buy this book and you will soon be a knowledgeable and active runner. ... Read more

Amazon.com
Jack Reacher is back, dragged into what looks like a series of grisly serial murders by a team of FBI profilers who aren't totally sure he's not the killer they're looking for, but believe that even if he isn't, he's smart enough to help them find the real killer. And what they've got on the ex-MP, who's starred in three previous Lee Child thrillers(Tripwire, Die Trying, Killing Floor), is enough to ensure his grudging cooperation: phony charges stemming from Reacher's inadvertent involvement in a protection shakedown and the threat of harm to the woman he loves.

The killer's victims have only one thing in common--all of them brought sexualharassment chargesagainst their military superiors and all resigned from the army afterwinning their cases. The manner, if not the cause, of their deaths is gruesomely the same: they died in their own bathtubs, covered in gallons of camouflage paint, but they didn't drown and they weren't shot, strangled, poisoned, or attacked. Even the FBI forensic specialists can't figure out why they seem to have gone willingly to their mysterious deaths. Reacher isn't sure whether the killings are an elaborate cover-up for corruptioninvolving stolen military hardware or the work of a maniac who's smart enough to leave absolutely no clues behind.This compelling, iconic antihero dead-ends in a lot of alleys before he finally figures it out, but every one is worth exploring and the suspense doesn't let up for a second.The ending will come as a complete surprise to even the most careful reader, and as Reacher strides off into the sunset, you'll wonder what's in store for him in his next adventure. --Jane AdamsBook Description
Across the country women are being murdered by a killer who leaves no evidence, no fatal wounds, no signs of struggle, and no clues to a motive. They are, truly, perfect crimes. In fact, the only thing that links the victims is the man they all knew: Jack Reacher. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (114)

Some Insights
I am reading the series in order.I think this was the best one yet.It leaves my very excited to continue the Reacher series.We began to see more depth in Reacher as he struggles with understanding himself.The story moves forward at a wonderful pace.It was just great.While reading this I had the opportunity to hear Lee Child speak.He gave some insights that I think will be helpful.First he said he starts the book at the beginning and does not really know how it will turn out until he gets there.He also said that when he is stumped he has Reacher get a cup of coffee. Child does the same.

Major disappointment
I've read five or six of the Reacher books. I would say Tripwire was the best, and this was the worst. I gave this three stars because much of the writing is quite compelling and true to the character--but there is a major disappointment in terms of plausibility failure. I won't give it away (it's not quite as bad as "then he woke up and realized it was all a dream," but not too far behind that). Let's call it a plot device you definitely wouldn't expect from a good writer. If you can overlook this big problem, and you like Reacher, then you'll probably enjoy the rest of the book. Two and a half stars, leaning a bit toward three.

Reacher!
As usual, Lee Child creates a very interesting and thrilling story about the "hero" Jack Reacher. This story is in the time before he took to the roads, roaming around in the States. He is living in New York, dating the love of his life and an unfortunate involvment in a restaurant owners trouble with the maffia, Reacher gets accused of murdering woman he has known as an MP in the army.
It's very good, but some parts can get a little bit boring.
Still, from me it get's 4 stars! Hard to put down!

Running Blind
Jack Reacher is one of my favorite heros, and all of his books are excellent.I would recommend this book.

Wonderful book
Lee Child has done it again!!I have now read a total of 5 books featuring Jack Reacher.The first book I read was "Without Fail", that book prompted me to by the entire Jack Reacher series, and I am not disappointed!! ... Read more

Product Description
In his new release, Running Scared, Edward T.Welch investigates the roots of fear in the human soul and the ramifications of living in the grips of anxiety, worry, and dread. Welch encourages readers to discover for themselves that the Bible is full of beautiful words of comfort for fearful people (and that every single person is afraid of something). Within the framework of thirty topical meditations, Welch offers sound biblical theology and moment-by-moment, thoughtful encouragement for life-saving rescue in the midst of the heart and mind battlefield of rampant panic-stricken responses.This comprehensive primer on the topic of fear, worry, and the rest of God will have readers retreating to scripture for invariable constancy, stalwart care, and robust comfort, instead of as Welch terms it hitting the default switch by responding with characteristic human independence, control, and self-protectiveness. Running Scared affirms that, through Scripture, God speaks directly to our fears: On money and possessionsOn people and their judgmentsOn death, pain, and punishment Welch's lively text provides convincing evidences that humanity's struggle against active and dormant fears are countless. The good news is that God provides both the remedy and the cure for this malady in the person of Jesus Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and through powerful, life-altering promises in Scripture. Far more than merely another psychologyself-helpguide, Running Sc