Run to Overcome Review

From Publisher:  When Meb Keflezighi won the New York City Marathon in 2009—the first American to do so in 27 years—some critics questioned whether the Eritrean-born runner was “really” an American despite his citizenship status and representing the USA on two Olympic and several World Championship teams. Yet Meb is the living embodiment of the American dream. His family came to the U.S. to escape from a life of poverty and a violent war with Ethiopia; Meb was 12 at the time, spoke no English, and had never raced a mile. Yet he became an A student and a high school state and national champion. And when he stood on the platform as a silver medalist in the 2004 Olympics, Meb knew his hard work and determination had paid off. How could life be any better?

Then it all came crashing down. Meb, a favorite for the Beijing Olympics, fractured his pelvis during the trials and was left literally crawling. His close friend and fellow marathoner suffered a cardiac arrest at the trials and died that same day. Devastated, Meb was about to learn whether his faith in God, the values his parents had taught him, and his belief that he was born to run were enough to see him through.

Run to Overcome tells the inspirational story of a man who discovered the real meaning of victory, and who embodies the American spirit of overcoming the odds.

My Take: From very humble beginnings, Meb relies heavily upon his Christian faith and belief in the American Dream.  Coming from a war-torn country where food is scarce and luxury includes owning your own skinny cow, Meb recognized the positives in life early on.  His father, willing to sacrifice his own safety and well-being, traversed the continent to reach Sudan then emigrated to Italy.  At this point the very large family joined him.  Meb recalls the joyful reunion in detail.

Two years later, the family immigrated to the United States.  Through hard work and positive relationships, Meb learned to love running.  The book details his journey from a small country on the African continent to his Olympic showing and winning the New York Marathon.  Following each chapter, the reader is provided with "Runner's Tip" and "Overcomer's Tip."  Overcomer's tips are not only applicable to running but succeeding in other endeavors. 

Inspiring and enjoyable read. I was personally so inspired that I took my youngest son to the park and walked around it for 15 minutes.  Wahoo!

Win an autographed copy and read the first chapter by clicking here.