Why Run When You Can Drive and Smoke at the Same Time

by Patrick Leber

WHY RUN WHEN YOU CAN DRIVE AND SMOKE AT THE SAME TIME is a collection of amusing, engaging, and embarrassing running stories from nearly 40 years of hitting the pavement. These stories will resonate with both runners and non-runners alike as they embark on different journeys with Leber across the United States. Why Run is an endearing running memoir, combining humor, sport-related insights, and observations about life while on the move.

Genres: Humor

138 pages, Paperback

Published February 24, 2020

Reviews

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such fun stories! To set the tone for each one, I queued up the song accompanying each story, which really made it a great reading experience!

[Mary McManus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Patrick Leber turns ordinary stories about his 40 year running career into an extraordinary memoir. The memoir's title, 'Why Run When You Can Drive and Smoke at the Same Time" is a reflection of Patrick's writing style that combines insights garnered on his many miles on the road with the ability to use tongue in cheek humor to share his adventures. You will have to read his book to experience the unveiling of the reason for the book's title. At the end of each story, Patrick shares his wisdom in a Note to self. Some of the notes are humorous but most are powerful and poignant that will appeal to runners and non-runners; advice that applies to life on and off the roads. One of my favorites was "Always look for opportunities to support others in unique ways." And on a humorous note, "Leave breadcrumbs the next time I run in a new area."

Part of the charm of Patrick's book is reminding us of what life was like before cell phones. He finds himself in various predicaments during his running adventures that would have had a very different and much easier outcome were they to happen today. It's a wonderful nostalgic look at life in a different era through Patrick's lens of warmth, wit and his passion for how music influenced his life.

Patrick's theme of running for his health is woven throughout his memoir. Reading his book is good for your health. Laughter is good medicine and you'll get a hefty dose as you turn the pages of this memoir. There are moments when you won't be able to turn the page quickly enough eager to find out the answer to the question you will inevitably ask yourself, "Oh no what happened?"

Patrick's book is a timeless classic that is sure to delight runners and non-runners for years to come!

[Erin Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

A unique collage of stories told solely by the author as he runs throughout his life. It makes me think about all the good stories each runner probably has but vastly goes untold. I love the “Note to self” portions after each story.

[Mike Bauer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I couldn't put this book down once I started it. Very easy read. Quick and funny stories. An absolute pleasure to read.

[Sarah Hallock · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a nice retelling of some running stories! Loved reading about your adventures Patrick!!

Some stories had shock value, some stories were sentimental, some stories made me laugh. I could feel Patrick’s emotions in his writing. I could put myself in his running shoes (even though for sure significantly slower), including but not limited to at the intersection amidst the storm! If I’m being honest I’m pretty sure I gasped and ducked … while safely on my living room couch. One of the kids looked up from their iPad to see what was going on. I looked back and said “don’t judge me…” held eye contact for a few seconds, and then carried on reading. Hahaha.

I’m so so glad to have been “introduced” to Patrick and his book!

[Diana · Rating 3 out of 5]

A quick, fun read! I really enjoyed reading this one since I worked with Patrick for several years. Loved reading about his running adventures, some with laugh out loud moments.

Every book I read, I try and highlight some quote or advice or embellishment. His piece of advice near the end, “keep moving” is the best advice anyone can give.
Another co-worker told me the same advice, “don’t stop moving“!

[Patrick Leber]

I had a lot of fun writing & publishing this book over a 13 month period. www.whyrunwhen.com

[Crissy]

I won a copy through goodreads and I am so excited to receive and review! I'm a long time runner/jogger and feel this read will be super fun! Have a beautiful day, cheers!

[Ian Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book with exciting stories! Loved the emphasis on running for the health benefit and the love of it

[Chelsea K · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was so interesting to hear these stories from a long time runner. I only discovered running about a decade ago but I'm hoping I will have some interesting experiences and adventures like these in my future running career (minus the dog encounters, although I am a dog lover!). I liked how each chapter had a song title theme. I had never heard many of these songs, so I will have to add some to my playlist.