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The Summit Seeker
Some people run for weight loss, general fitness, or the ability to eat whatever they want. In The Summit Seeker, Vanessa Runs explores trail and ultra running on an emotional, psychological, and spiritual level.
Vanessa started running to battle her demons, to heal her deepest wounds, and ultimately, to find her peace in the mountains. Her vivid descriptions of spectacular trails call you into wild places where you will find rugged beauty, expansive wilderness, and deep personal insights.
Weaving her personal stories of struggle, hunger, and adventure, Vanessa tugs at our heartstrings and appeals to our most primitive drive as a species: to survive.
Vanessa started running to battle her demons, to heal her deepest wounds, and ultimately, to find her peace in the mountains. Her vivid descriptions of spectacular trails call you into wild places where you will find rugged beauty, expansive wilderness, and deep personal insights.
Weaving her personal stories of struggle, hunger, and adventure, Vanessa tugs at our heartstrings and appeals to our most primitive drive as a species: to survive.
- GenresNonfictionMemoir
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2013
9 people are currently reading
572 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Runs
8 books46 followersI am an author, trail nerd, elevation junkie, and mountain-loving dirtbag. My husband Shacky and I have been living and traveling full-time in our 22-foot Rialta with the dog and cat since 2013.
I have published two books: Daughters of Distance & The Summit Seeker, both available on Amazon.
More at vanessaruns.com.
Twitter & Instagram @vanessaruns
***
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds.” (Edward Abbey)
I have published two books: Daughters of Distance & The Summit Seeker, both available on Amazon.
More at vanessaruns.com.
Twitter & Instagram @vanessaruns
***
“May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view. May your mountains rise into and above the clouds.” (Edward Abbey)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 28, 2015
Good book! Motivating - makes you want to go for a run immediately.
March 3, 2013
Vanessa is a character. Oh to be 29 again and have such optimism and grace. This book is about her, why she runs, or actually not why she runs because as she aptly points out, that can't be determined, just her and her thoughts as they flow from her brain to her fingers to the paper.
Inspirational in the way that as I bounce from crossing into ultra running or just staying at the marathon level I am leaning back to ultra as I nurse my latest injury and learn how to strengthen my body to over come it and move on to probably the next injury as I take on new challenges.
Runner or non-runner this is a nice easy read.
Inspirational in the way that as I bounce from crossing into ultra running or just staying at the marathon level I am leaning back to ultra as I nurse my latest injury and learn how to strengthen my body to over come it and move on to probably the next injury as I take on new challenges.
Runner or non-runner this is a nice easy read.
May 8, 2013
Trail runners and ultra runners are amazing creatures who have my awe and respect.
For some reason a trail runner with tattooes is just a bona fide bad-ass to me. All that time in the woods toughens their hides, fills up their soul, and mutates them into something a bit more evolved, but also closer to mother earth.
Trail runners seem more solitary yet at the same time more communal. More solitary, in that they seem to run longer distances, and by the nature of the secluded trails, more alone. Yet they also seem to share a secret language. An unspoken bond. You’ll see this at events, you’ll see it in their eyes, and it’s evident in the book I read, The Summit Seeker.
I came across The Summit Seeker because I have been secretly rewriting a series of blog posts to mash them together into an ebook (oops, secrets out of the bag) and was looking for similar works. Summit Seeker was a great purchase. The book is a great mix of running moments, glimpses into a very interesting life, and reads with a near stream of consciousness. Runners of all types will see themselves and feel inspired. In fact, I will guarantee you will like it, or I’ll give you your money back (if I can just find those secret forms you first need to fill out, now where are they...? )
There were so many take aways from this book. I enjoyed the discussion how trail running is less focused on time and how the solitary nature of a trail run contrasts to the crowded chutes of marathons. The author goes into the Stages of being tired, without being all scientific and stuffy, but is much more visceral and spiritual. It always reads with the joyful wit of someone who has logged enough miles to ascend to higher planes and then return to tell us about it. There is a great conversation on what she learned from Hobbits, and the spot-on insight into how nobody asks why we do other things, like go to the movies or why we listen to music, but they do ask why we run.
Many of these things are of course universal to all of runnng, and if you've never ran a trail you'll still find something that resonates with you. Running music, the author explaines, is best when it has a personal history in it for you. That ran true, as did the discussion on how we crave the suffering and discomfort of the run, and when we line up at the start of a race, we can never fully know what we are going to get. And that’s the beauty of it.
For some reason a trail runner with tattooes is just a bona fide bad-ass to me. All that time in the woods toughens their hides, fills up their soul, and mutates them into something a bit more evolved, but also closer to mother earth.
Trail runners seem more solitary yet at the same time more communal. More solitary, in that they seem to run longer distances, and by the nature of the secluded trails, more alone. Yet they also seem to share a secret language. An unspoken bond. You’ll see this at events, you’ll see it in their eyes, and it’s evident in the book I read, The Summit Seeker.
I came across The Summit Seeker because I have been secretly rewriting a series of blog posts to mash them together into an ebook (oops, secrets out of the bag) and was looking for similar works. Summit Seeker was a great purchase. The book is a great mix of running moments, glimpses into a very interesting life, and reads with a near stream of consciousness. Runners of all types will see themselves and feel inspired. In fact, I will guarantee you will like it, or I’ll give you your money back (if I can just find those secret forms you first need to fill out, now where are they...? )
There were so many take aways from this book. I enjoyed the discussion how trail running is less focused on time and how the solitary nature of a trail run contrasts to the crowded chutes of marathons. The author goes into the Stages of being tired, without being all scientific and stuffy, but is much more visceral and spiritual. It always reads with the joyful wit of someone who has logged enough miles to ascend to higher planes and then return to tell us about it. There is a great conversation on what she learned from Hobbits, and the spot-on insight into how nobody asks why we do other things, like go to the movies or why we listen to music, but they do ask why we run.
Many of these things are of course universal to all of runnng, and if you've never ran a trail you'll still find something that resonates with you. Running music, the author explaines, is best when it has a personal history in it for you. That ran true, as did the discussion on how we crave the suffering and discomfort of the run, and when we line up at the start of a race, we can never fully know what we are going to get. And that’s the beauty of it.
February 25, 2013
This is an inspirational book about ultra marathoning. Each chapter is divided up into many short essays that are loosely related. Vanessa Runs touches on her difficult upbringing, life experiences, and mostly talks passionately about her love of trail running. While I don't feel like I really got a sense of who she is or what her individual runs were like (except for the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim-to-rim), I did feel an overall sense of optimism and inspiration from reading this quick book.
February 27, 2013
A book about someone and their running, not a "running book". And that's a good thing. It's strongest where she sticks to her personal relationship with running. I disagree with some of the generalizations, and expect that she'll change some of those opinions after additional time passes.
December 31, 2022
What an awesome story! I listened to this book so I really enjoyed hearing about Vanessa's life, both personal and running. It was awesome to hear about some of the races I've done or been at myself (Nanny Goat, TransRockies, among others), and the people she ran with that I know and have also run with (Gordie, Ed). The section about her R2R2R was my favorite! Her description of the Grand Canyon is spot on! I realize this book is old (2013) so I don't know what she's up to now, but if she's still here in San Diego I should look her up. Ultrarunning is amazing and this book will tell you just how so! 3.5 🌟 but for the sake of Goodreads I'll round down to 3 🌟.
October 23, 2016
Probably not a bad book to plow through on the flight to a mountain race. Felt a little light on ultras specifically and what happens in the moment on a mountain run--more retrospective of what they mean in general. For example, I would have liked to see more like the chapter her first big marathon training run. Like so many ultra books, reads a lot like a bunch of blog posts strung together.
August 23, 2019
So Inspirational
Chasing my ultrarunning dreams, this book put so many good lessons in my bag for when I’m out there on the trail. Her words are so poetic and inspirational. Awesome read!
Chasing my ultrarunning dreams, this book put so many good lessons in my bag for when I’m out there on the trail. Her words are so poetic and inspirational. Awesome read!
December 31, 2020
It’s a little all over the place, but a good quick read. Nothing groundbreaking. I do enjoy hearing other people’s adventures on the trails and she definitely has had quite a life so far.
May 5, 2013
This book was fascinating, awe-inspiring, uplifting.
This is not a how to book. It doesn't tell you how to run or how to run faster. It's just a great memoir about life and running. I recommend this book to everyone. You don't have to be a runner to love this story, but I would be surprised if you didn't decide to try running after reading it.
There were parts of this book about body image where I wished I could just say thank you personally for writing them.
Words about siblings that made me think of my sisters.
Writing about death that had me in tears.
Descriptions about failed and wonderful relationships that made me think of my own.
And talk about running that sometimes gave me goosebumps and left me filled with awe and envy.
And when the book was finished. At a time when I would normally be settling in to go to sleep for the night I instead had an urge to run.
For the first time in 10 years I left the music, watch and even my shoes at home and I ran.
I came home with filty, sore and cut feet but feeling more alive than I have in a long time.
If I didn't live in a gated expat community with beautiful people riding golf carts I might have considered climbing a tree.
My family think I am insane.
This is a book I will read again. And again.
Thank you Vanessa Runs, your pretty freaking amazing.
This is not a how to book. It doesn't tell you how to run or how to run faster. It's just a great memoir about life and running. I recommend this book to everyone. You don't have to be a runner to love this story, but I would be surprised if you didn't decide to try running after reading it.
There were parts of this book about body image where I wished I could just say thank you personally for writing them.
Words about siblings that made me think of my sisters.
Writing about death that had me in tears.
Descriptions about failed and wonderful relationships that made me think of my own.
And talk about running that sometimes gave me goosebumps and left me filled with awe and envy.
And when the book was finished. At a time when I would normally be settling in to go to sleep for the night I instead had an urge to run.
For the first time in 10 years I left the music, watch and even my shoes at home and I ran.
I came home with filty, sore and cut feet but feeling more alive than I have in a long time.
If I didn't live in a gated expat community with beautiful people riding golf carts I might have considered climbing a tree.
My family think I am insane.
This is a book I will read again. And again.
Thank you Vanessa Runs, your pretty freaking amazing.
July 10, 2013
This was a thoughtful read. I was especially impressed by Vanessa's gift to herself on her 29th birthday.
Vanessa is the real deal, she has been in some rough spots. I was moved reading how she has triumphed over adversity.
There are some wonderful quotes about ultrarunning in this book, here's one for any runner who has been asked many times, Why?:
"As a friend once told me, we need people to run 100 miles just as we need people who can sing above an orchestra, or who can paint a masterpiece. It proves to us the wonder and versatility of humanity, and reminds us that as a species we are capable of extraordinary feats. And we need an army of runners who can move swiftly with no purpose. Who seek out trails that lead to nowhere. Who scale mountains just to see the other side. More importantly, we need things in our lives that we don't have to rationalize. Things we can just love recklessly. And we need to stop asking why."
Vanessa is the real deal, she has been in some rough spots. I was moved reading how she has triumphed over adversity.
There are some wonderful quotes about ultrarunning in this book, here's one for any runner who has been asked many times, Why?:
"As a friend once told me, we need people to run 100 miles just as we need people who can sing above an orchestra, or who can paint a masterpiece. It proves to us the wonder and versatility of humanity, and reminds us that as a species we are capable of extraordinary feats. And we need an army of runners who can move swiftly with no purpose. Who seek out trails that lead to nowhere. Who scale mountains just to see the other side. More importantly, we need things in our lives that we don't have to rationalize. Things we can just love recklessly. And we need to stop asking why."
March 19, 2014
I read this book in one sitting. My first introduction to The Summit Seeker was Vanessa's blog, Vanessa Runs, and wanting to know more about her inspiring nomadic lifestyle, I ordered the book.
While I originally expected to be reading a memoir, chapter-by-chapter style book, I was ultimately glad that she broke her stories into small essays. Not only did this make me appreciate each one more, but I can see how someone not wanting to read the book straight-through could pick up the book at random, read a section, and come away with an inspiring message, (or hopefully be itching to go for a long and peaceful solo run!)
Thank you, Vanessa! I look forward to reading more of your writing in the future.
While I originally expected to be reading a memoir, chapter-by-chapter style book, I was ultimately glad that she broke her stories into small essays. Not only did this make me appreciate each one more, but I can see how someone not wanting to read the book straight-through could pick up the book at random, read a section, and come away with an inspiring message, (or hopefully be itching to go for a long and peaceful solo run!)
Thank you, Vanessa! I look forward to reading more of your writing in the future.
July 19, 2013
As Vanesaa says in her introduction this is not a book that teaches you how to run faster. It won't even tell you how to train. Nevertheless it is a book that should be interesting for all sorts of runners. Even if it talks about ultrarunning and ultratrailrunning there's something for everyone. It definitely changed my view on running quite a bit and I think I do enjoy running even more now. There are many admirable and inspiring runners out there. But if you ask me who I would like to meet and spend some time running with, I clearly have to say that that would be Vanessa and her boyfriend Shacky.
April 12, 2013
I would especially recommend this book for young adults. The young adult non-fiction market is less generous to our young people than the fiction market. The Summit Seeker, is a rare gem in this area. Vanessa shares an unvarnished and edgy look at growing up, coming of age, and finding her feet, her voice, and her bliss.
You can read my full review (and interview with the author) on WanderLit at:
http://wanderlustandlipstick.com/blog...
You can read my full review (and interview with the author) on WanderLit at:
http://wanderlustandlipstick.com/blog...
February 11, 2015
Well, I'm a sucker for this one because I identified so readily with the reasons Vanessa gives for having fallen in love with ultras. Her passion for living true to herself is inspiring. As a self-published book, it lacks some polish, reading a bit like a series of blog posts, or emails from a friend--but this honesty and intimate voice is refreshing in many ways, too. Recommended for any aspiring or accomplished ultrarunners, especially those invested in the emotional draw of running long distances.
September 4, 2015
Of all the glorified blog-posts-turned-memoir running books I've read, this one is by far my favourite. I fell in love with the author because she has true humility, rather than the self-effacing pretense of humility with which so much of my treadmill reading is rife. She has the writer's gift, which is why I feel comfortable chiding her for using Wikipedia as a source. You're a journalist, gurl! Do better! I also wish that some of the subheading sections were drawn out longer. That said, I will gladly read more of her work. This book did what it set out to do: Inspire and encourage.
September 10, 2015
I won this book on Goodreads. I really enjoyed reading about Vanessa's somewhat difficult past, and how she has turned running ultras into a purifying element in her life.
Vanessa has come to term with her shortcomings and embraces life in a pretty refreshing and admirable way. You go girl! As someone who enjoys exercise (though not running, I am sad to admit) I appreciated her perspective on pain and pleasure.
An easy and pleasant read for anyone who wants to feel inspired to better themselves!
Vanessa has come to term with her shortcomings and embraces life in a pretty refreshing and admirable way. You go girl! As someone who enjoys exercise (though not running, I am sad to admit) I appreciated her perspective on pain and pleasure.
An easy and pleasant read for anyone who wants to feel inspired to better themselves!
April 7, 2013
I loved this book. I have followed Vanessa when I first started to read her insightful blog. Her story is one of strength and inspiration...one that as an Introvert who loves to run I could relate to. There are several essays which I regularly share with my patients, (I am a therapist who works with depression and anxiety) because of Vanessa's never say no attitude. Vanessa is today in her life where I wish I had the guts to be when I was 29.
May 4, 2013
I have just recently completed my first 50k a week ago and started reading this book in one reading cover to cover.
She takes you through the twists and turns of her childhood and beyond into her present day life with Shacky and Ginger and Momma, very worthy trail companions. Love the passion...well done!
Honest look at what it takes
A must read for anyone thinking of Ultra's or running them.
Thank you for the book Vanessa
She takes you through the twists and turns of her childhood and beyond into her present day life with Shacky and Ginger and Momma, very worthy trail companions. Love the passion...well done!
Honest look at what it takes
A must read for anyone thinking of Ultra's or running them.
Thank you for the book Vanessa
April 8, 2013
Well-written and inspirational, but I didn't care for the organization of the chapters (or lack-of). I hope Vanessa writes a more detailed, chronological book in the future. This book felt more like essays or blog entries mashed together. I loved her writing style and passion for running and life and look forward to reading more by her in the future!
January 27, 2014
I won this book from Goodreads giveaway. I didn't find the book special, fascinating or motivational. Some of the things were repetitive and the writing wasn't that great.. I found it a little scattered.
I guess this book will be more interesting for actual runners or people who are at least interested in it.
I guess this book will be more interesting for actual runners or people who are at least interested in it.
July 21, 2017
This was truly one of the most enjoyable things I've read in a long, long, long time...
Ultra-marathoner or not, runner or not, if you have an itch that can't quite be scratched, or feel a restlessness about living your destiny, this quirky, arguably dysfunctional, simple, beautiful spirit of a young lady may have something to share with you, too
Ultra-marathoner or not, runner or not, if you have an itch that can't quite be scratched, or feel a restlessness about living your destiny, this quirky, arguably dysfunctional, simple, beautiful spirit of a young lady may have something to share with you, too
January 28, 2017
I enjoyed reading about how she got started running and her experiences at ultra races, but every time she talked about how her dad treated her and her siblings growing up, it depressed me so much I wanted to put the book down. I know it's part of her history, and that's what make her who she is today, but I can't say I enjoy reading about what I felt like was child abuse.
May 7, 2013
I enjoyed this more than the other ultra memoirs I've read. Vanessa is not elite though an amazing runner and while I can't imagine ever running an ultra she made me understand why some one would. Her writing style is great but the chapter structure took some getting used to.
January 16, 2014
It takes a lot for me to stop reading a book I bought, but I did with this one. It came highly recommended, but I found it very self-reflective, a bit all over the place, and it did not captivate my interest.
January 21, 2014
Being an ultradistance runner
I really enjoyed this book. Being a runner it puts a different perspective on why we run. We focus so much on the end result that we often forget the journey.
I really enjoyed this book. Being a runner it puts a different perspective on why we run. We focus so much on the end result that we often forget the journey.
June 9, 2013
Wow! Such a great read. Vanessa completely pulls you into her story. It is great to see and feel her perspective through running and her experiences in life.
July 11, 2013
A quick read that was very inspiring. This will probably be a reread for me as there are lessons that I need to internalize about running and endurance.
December 22, 2013
Passionately written, wild ride through the eyes of a runner, admirable, random and thoughtful....I received a copy of this book free from goodreads firstreads.
June 21, 2014
Vanessa Runs gives her insights into running, life's joys and struggles. 'The Summit Seeker' offers an insightful friend to any who read.
I won my copy from Goodreads First Reads.
I won my copy from Goodreads First Reads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews