On The Run From Dogs and People

by Hal Higdon

The third edition of Hal Higdon's classic book from 1971 about long distance running as it was practiced by a few hundred dedicated (and sometimes crazy) participants in the years before the boom. A funny and entertaining autobiography by Higdon, Runner's World's leading writer.

Paperback

First published December 12, 1971

About the author

Hal Higdon is an American writer and runner. He has contributed to Runner's World magazine longer than any other writer. He is the author of 34 books, including the best-selling Marathon: The Ultimate Training Guide. He has worked as a freelance writer since 1959, and has written a variety of subjects including a children's book that was made into an animated feature. He ran eight times in the United States Olympic Trials and won four World Masters Championships. He is one of the founders of the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA).

Reviews

[Kevin J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

So many runner-writers seem to write books that rest upon an unseen but steady foundation of ego. I'm thinking of Dean Karnazes, Marshall Ulrich, Jeff Horowitz and even Kathrine Switzer. While they may not be overt or blunt about it, there a certain "I've done great things and I'm writing this book to inspire you to do great things like me" underneath. Please don't get me wrong. They have done great things and they have inspired me and probably countless others.

Then Hal Higdon comes along. He's done great things. He competed at a national level. But he shares his stories as if he really is nothing more than a ordinary guy doing ordinary things. Hal wrote for Runner's World for many, many years...and the cadence of a column writer comes through-paced at a perfect flow through his anecdotes and observations. His humor is both sharp and droll. A perfect blend of successful runner and successful mid-packer.

This book was written about the time I was born. There is a lot of dated information in here (Boston Marathon had exploded to 1500 entrants! Oh My!). It would seem, however, that the stories runners know and tell each other has not changed much in the last 40 years.

Throughly enjoyed this one. You can tell because I rarely write more than a few words as a review...if I write one at all.

[Mckinsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this the first time in high school and I have always remembered several pieces of advice from it.

[Jen (The Jenerator) · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first 3 chapters and the last chapter were great. I didn't need to know anything from the middle ones.

[Ray Charbonneau · Rating 3 out of 5]

Must reading for those who want to learn something about running just before the first boom.