The Extra Mile

I bought this book expecting to be inspired and gain insight into the world of ultra-running, maybe some tips, etc. Instead it was mostly borderline narcissistic rambling that was very difficult to get through. I was more interested in what she said about her competitors and the recounting of The Badlands ultramarathon. The epilogue was pointless, narcissistic, sets a dangerous example, and was completely unnecessary. I finished this book only because I paid $10 for it, which was too much.

I didn’t get the same sense of defensiveness that other readers picked up on, but I agree with the disjointedness and less-than-stellar writing. What came across to me more than anything is that Pam Reed herself doesn’t understand a lot of why she does what she does, or is the way she is. Not that there’s anything wrong with that – we all are pretty mysterious, and I’d rather have someone say, “I have no idea!” rather than come up with some pat answer.

What bothered me most was the overall flat affect she conveys in her writing. She seems very disconnected from her emotions, which may make her a fantastic athlete, but makes for poor self-expression. The vitality and energy of Dean Karnazes’s books was missing. I read until the end, but wasn’t swept along with her story. And her description of her relationship with her husband bothered me – as did his editorial comments that he’s “helped her with every aspect of her career.” Maybe he should write his own book!

Overall, a decent read. I’ll be passing my copy on to a girlfriend who’s a huge marathoner. I think she’ll really like it.

To be honest the title really turned me off. She clearly doesn’t have a self-esteem problem. Even after reading this book I still feel this way. But give her credit. She’s honest about it and tells why she feels this way. I think she would have sold a lot more books with a different title, but that’s just my opinion.

A review for a book like this is in some ways hard to write. You’re supposed to be somewhat analytical when instead you feel emotional. I’m sad to be done reading this book. Over the few months I felt like I’ve gotten to know this person and now that’s its over, I bummed.

A comparison between this book and one by Dean Karnazes is interesting. Both authors are really great at what they do and both are extremely tough. But Pam has warts and frailties and she struggles with stupid ( human ) things. In that way I can much more readily identify with her much more than Dean.

First-hand account of the life and thoughts of one of the fastest and toughest racers in the world. I applaud Pam’s action plan to raise the cause of American racers and garner support for them. A valuable read for anyone interested in delving into what it takes to compete and remain on a world-class stage.

I wanted more information more details more secrets… But I’m glad I have her to follow. I need more woman heroes.

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