Joe M

This book was exactly what I needed at this point in my life. It's a nice slice of life that allowed me to slow down for 20 minutes each morning before heading into my 65-75 hour work weeks. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a nice, simple story to sink into.

Overall a decent and short read. I'd only recommend this to those who enjoy technical reading or are interested in some history of psychology. The book's premise is interesting, but it is mired in overly technical and dated language. Additionally, those who follow trends of being over ‘politically correct' will find this book insufferable. I don't like the antiquated gender norms it portrays, but if you can look past them, you can derive deeper meaning from the text.

Much of the game descriptions (the middle majority of the book) can likely be skimmed, but the beginning, an introduction to games and psychological ego states, as well as the ending, an outline of the alternative to games, was interesting. Though the book's dated examples are apparent, there is a lot of value to be derived from it. Many people are stuck in these tropes - these Games – and they likely don't know an alternative. They may know they are playing Games and being inauthentic but don't know the ramifications of their actions and the psychological stunting it develops. None of us are immune from these, but adhering to a few principles makes them much easier to avoid. In particular, following Sam Harris' guidance against lying and adhering to a philosophy that focuses on self-attained values rather than external validation can essentially get you there.

This is the most intense John Green book I have ever read - not in any sort of action-oriented way but mentally and emotionally. This is easily my 1st or 2nd favorite John Green book, and though there was almost no action in it, the story kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time.

TLDR: If you are a fan of the ultra-running genre, you will likely enjoy this book. I feel Scott's writing has improved from his previous books and seeing the trip from Jenny's point of view certainly provided greater perspective to the reader. It will both humble you and inspire you. Get out there run those miles and chase the pain that will “make you big.”

I bought this book from Scott during the Born to Run Ultra event held by Luis Escobar each year. We talked for about fifteen minutes about running and vegetarianism. There were many others from previous running books that I've read as well, and it was surreal. But then I realized how grounded they all were. Don't get me wrong, all these runners are extraordinary, but they are all weird and crazy which is something that anybody can work to be. We can accomplish similar feats - though probably at a smaller scale - ourselves. I feel the book tries to make this sentiment clear. Anybody can find a support group, and anybody can chase their goals. If you want a story to show you what real grit is and then become inspired to find it yourself, this will certainly get you there.

Excellent characters and story as always! The only regret I have is that I am now finished with the Riyria story unless (until?) more come out. If you enjoyed any of the previous Riyria books, this is well worth the read.

I read Ultramarathon Man years ago, loved it, and was excited to sink my teeth into this book. The story of Pheidippides is remarkable, but I found Dean's writing in this book hard to get through. He mires the account with superfluous detail and commentary - spreading what can be conveyed in a paragraph into a whole page.

If you don't mind reading the same thing multiple times but with different adjectives (synonyms), then you will probably enjoy this book; there's a lot of interesting story hidden within. Just know that at times it will be a slog. I thoroughly enjoyed a couple chapters in the beginning, a few chapters in the middle, and maybe the last 40 pages (maybe 120 pages in total). I hope this helps!

This story was incredibly short, strangely paced, and sort of perfect. It is a book you should come in knowing nothing about. If you want an easy and quick book to read that can impact your “feels,” it is well worth your time.

A story with great characters and an interesting writing style. The book is easy to read and relax to though it lacks some of the sophistication apparent in many other great fantasy novels. If you are looking for a pleasant read with intriguing character dynamics, I recommend giving this series a try.

An excellent end to an excellent story. If you enjoyed the previous adventures of Royce and Hadrian,
you will find yourself enthralled with this book. The world becomes increasingly complicated and then it slowly comes together into a coherent and satisfying conclusion.

A wonderful sequel to first book. The style remains the same and the relationship between the two lead protagonists continues to intrigue. If the writing style of ‘Theft of Swords' did not fit your fancy, then it won't in this book either. But I highly recommend this book if you enjoyed the first installment of the series.