Ultramarathon Man

"Highly recommended but I think four stars rather than five...

Well, I really do think that many endurance athletes will get something out of this book. The style isn't great and the language is not really up there with that of Richard Askwith, and in agreement with another reviewer it is pretty easy reading. But easy reading can be a good thing sometimes!

I enjoyed reading this book and I think that there is always something to be gained from understanding another athletes' experiences and perspectives. The quotes aren't great, the format (big font but bigger margins!) doesn't contribute anything positive, but the spirit of adventure is all that this needs to be about.

Dean has accomplished some great feats by being well-trained and well-focussed. I think that for any ultra-endurance athlete it is very easy to empathise with his approach, even if we might all prefer to do things differently. He is lucky to have a supportive family, and to have been a good runner since his school days. I do think things came easy for him - far easier than for many - and I'm sure that a lot of people wouldn't like the way he puts down non-ultra-runners (I'm an ultra-runner and I don't like it!). I almost didn't buy the book based on the reviews on the amazon.com site, but changed my mind following advice from a friend. The main complaint is that the book is all about Dean, and he does come across as quite narcissitic at times, but that can be forgiven as it is actually not too often (the photo of him naked at the pole probably didn't need to be included!).

Dean has completed the Western States 100-miler (10 times), the death valley ultra, and was one of the first few runners to complete a marathon to the South Pole. I do not think that he is qualified to judge other runners as he does, and he definitely isn't qualified to give advice on nutrition or training programmes (that's what Mike Stroud is for). But, this is definitely the book to read for the general enjoyment of it and perhaps for some inspiration.

If you are interested in ultra-marathons, then this is definitely worth a read."
~ Written on 2008-06-17

"Dean is truley a great runner...totally awesome and perhaps one of the worlds great athletes. What he does and how he does it are amazing.

Parts of this book are very funny - taking up running again after a huge night out and running in his boxers and vest for 30 miles or so. Bits very moving - the charity relay run he did solo for the girl who needed a kidney transplant. Bit truely inspirational - how he overcomes obstacles and lets nothing stop him in reaching his amazing goals.

Enjoyed reading the book and would recommend it. But...two or three issues stop this being a great book for me. First its very light - read it over a couple of days, could have done with more depth in places. Second its a bit too "american" not not quite right but thats sort of self help look at me approach - did not quite feel real (although I know it is). Finally not sure if its a wise book to follow - pain is good is hardly a mantra that sounds recommendable.

So a good read but left me feeling a little light afterwards."
~ Written on 2008-06-04

"Fab book. Dean has a very easy writing style. I finished this book in a couple of days and know that I will be reading it again (and again!).
Dean proves that you can do anything if you set your mind and body to it."
~ Written on 2008-04-16

"if you're into running or a similar sport (at any level) you should buy this book; a compelling read and a great motivator."
~ Written on 2008-02-27

"This man is truly extraordinary. I read this book and now I'm signed up for the Marathon des Sables - the world's toughest footrace.

Read it, be inspired, get out there and do it!"
~ Written on 2008-01-21