You Don't Look Like An Ultrarunner....: From obsessive twitcher to unlikely ultrarunner, negotiating life with a bipolar brain

by Tristan Reid

You Don't Look Like An Ultra Runner is an honest account from a former Ecologist, tattoo collector and conservation activist as he negotiates life’s difficulties either side of his bipolar diagnosis. It is a story of extremes, so it is perhaps not too surprising that he finds some escape in ultra distance running on the fells and trails of the Cumbrian Lake District.

163 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 24, 2023

Reviews

[Osvaldo Amador · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sincere book with many lessons

This book was a surprise . First , I love nature and especially birds . The facts about the many birds and their pictures are exceptional . Then there is the interwoven story of mental health and how one person came to awareness and acceptance . Very powerful book ! Well done !

[Mike Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

bravery comes in all forms

Everyone has a story to to tell ,and thanks to Tristan we are given a first hand account of what it’s like to thrive in different disciplines while living with bipolar. Which from the my perspective I find fascinating and amazing how he’s managed to do it I mean some of his running exploits is really difficult to believe ,and with the added pressure of a mental illness even more remarkable. This book will certainly benefit anyone going through similar struggles understand what is going on inside . Thank you for sharing your story

[Joanna Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tristan exposes some of the inner workings of his bipolar thinking through his fascinating experiences of twitching, tattooing-for-fund-raising and ultra-distance running. This book will appeal to bird-watchers and others who care about our natural world, trail and fell runners and of course anyone who would like to understand more about having and coping with a bipolar disorder. An illuminating read.

[Mackenzie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very personal journey!

This was a very interesting, unexpectedly great read! A journey deep into the mind of Reid and his adventures around the world. I appreciate this perspective and also love that Reid shares his outlet of running with bipolar disorder.

[Liora Ellington · Rating 5 out of 5]

You Don’t Look Like an Ultrarunner is a compelling and refreshingly honest memoir. Tristan Reid invites readers into his world with openness and courage, sharing the realities of living with a bipolar diagnosis alongside his unexpected journey into ultrarunning. His voice is authentic and engaging, capturing both the struggles and the small triumphs that shape a life of extremes. The vivid backdrop of the Cumbrian fells adds a striking dimension, making his story not just about running but also about resilience, identity, and finding light in difficult times. Inspiring, heartfelt, and unforgettable, I highly recommend this book.