What do you think?
Rate this book
Abdi's World: The Black Cactus on Life, Running, and Fun
“You cannot fail to be inspired by Abdi’s story, an authentic tale by someone who clearly cherishes running and life.” – Gary Lough, distance coach and former pro runner
Abdi’s World is a quirky place where the only American distance athlete to qualify for five Olympics shares the stories that shaped his enduring love of running and his laid-back approach to life.
Abdi Abdirahman arrived in Tucson, Arizona as a teenager when his family escaped civil war in their home country of Somalia. How the “Black Cactus,” as he is affectionately known, stumbled upon a career as one of the world’s most durable and beloved track and road racers of the 21st century is a story of resilience, commitment, and respect for friends and competitors alike—told here in a guide that is part life lessons, part training tips, part autobiography, and all Abdi.
He has traveled the globe and shared his joie de vivre at every stop, showing a magician’s ability to balance work and play that anyone young or old, in or out of running, could learn from to live a more meaningful life.
Enter Abdi’s World to join him on his insightful journey—and see what happens when you meet his stride.
Abdi’s World is a quirky place where the only American distance athlete to qualify for five Olympics shares the stories that shaped his enduring love of running and his laid-back approach to life.
Abdi Abdirahman arrived in Tucson, Arizona as a teenager when his family escaped civil war in their home country of Somalia. How the “Black Cactus,” as he is affectionately known, stumbled upon a career as one of the world’s most durable and beloved track and road racers of the 21st century is a story of resilience, commitment, and respect for friends and competitors alike—told here in a guide that is part life lessons, part training tips, part autobiography, and all Abdi.
He has traveled the globe and shared his joie de vivre at every stop, showing a magician’s ability to balance work and play that anyone young or old, in or out of running, could learn from to live a more meaningful life.
Enter Abdi’s World to join him on his insightful journey—and see what happens when you meet his stride.
240 pages, Paperback
Published October 14, 2021
2 people are currently reading
70 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
August 5, 2024
A fun and refreshing read compared to most runner books. It has an easygoing style that makes it enjoyable and exciting, especially when it talks about running competitions and Abdi's journey.
Instead of focusing on strict training advice, the book shares Abdi's life lessons. Some of his tips include staying balanced, playing the long game, and pushing through the first ten minutes of a workout, which he calls the "magic sweat." These habits are simple and can help improve our lives.
Abdi’s World is an inspiring book that shares Abdi's experiences and wisdom, leaving readers feeling motivated and uplifted.
Instead of focusing on strict training advice, the book shares Abdi's life lessons. Some of his tips include staying balanced, playing the long game, and pushing through the first ten minutes of a workout, which he calls the "magic sweat." These habits are simple and can help improve our lives.
Abdi’s World is an inspiring book that shares Abdi's experiences and wisdom, leaving readers feeling motivated and uplifted.
July 16, 2021
Well executed autobiography that is a runner’s delight with all the name drops from Abdi’s long career. An accurate view of a very likable man
August 2, 2023
Inspiring and beautiful story. I admire Abdi’s mindset above all. He’s an incredible athlete and person.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews