Running Tide

by Joan Benoit, Sally Baker (Collaborator)

From School Library Journal:
YA This outstanding female athlete, acknowledged to be one of the three greatest American runners of this de cade, chronicles her love of sports from the age of three when she learned to ski. The most interesting aspects of the book are the sections that deal with the pressures of juggling academics and competition and the influence that cer tain teachers and coaches have exerted on her. The picture she presents of her self is of a living, real human and not a perfect, unapproachable public fig ure. Barbara Weathers, Duchesne Academy, Houston
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal;
Benoit was a gold medal winner in the first Olympics' women's marathon in 1984. The story of her rise is almost a textbook lesson in athletic achievement. As a youngster in Maine, she engaged in a variety of sportstennis, baseball, field hockey, and skiing. Ultimately, she settled on a running career when an accident ended her skiing at age 15. She attributes her success to hard work and supportive friends, coaches, and parents who taught her that "winning was neither everything nor the only thing." This is a straightforward American success story devoid of overly controversial or sensational subject matter. Libraries with an eye toward the upcoming Olympic year may wish to add. William H. Hoffman, Ft. Myers-Lee Cty. P.L., Fla.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Genres: Sports, Nonfiction

213 pages, Hardcover

First published September 12, 1987

Reviews

[Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely enjoyed this book as it gave me insights into Joan Benoit Samuelson as a person in addition to an athlete. I found some of the training methods somewhat dated, but I could also identify with a lot of the psychology behind these methods. I also found her attitude towards injury and medicine to be similar to my own. When Joan hurt her knee before the Olympic trials she takes note of her "ridiculous" attitude. She thinks "I shouldn't be this upset This is only running. I could be dying of cancer." I've had these same thoughts about injuries. In addition, I loved the fun facts the book uncovered about this athlete. I didn't know that she walked down the aisle at her wedding to "Chariots of Fire", that she was an accomplished skier, or that she has such a special place in her heart for Maine. While I felt like sometimes she got into reporting her race times a bit too much and I wish she had focused more on how her contributions really changed women's sports, I enjoyed getting this intimate look at Joan's thoughts, goals, and achievements.

Here are some of my favorite quotes:
1. "I feel about marathons the way my parents taught me to feel about the ocean: it is a mighty thing and very beautiful, but don't underestimate its capacity to hurt you."
2. From Jeff Drenth - "It is better to burn out than to rust."

[Jenna Groeber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally had time to sit down and read this book after my track coach gifted me it in high school! I loved Joan’s story, and I admire her never-ending perseverance, grit, and devotion to running. Feeling a bit motivated to get back into running ◡̈

[Cristen K · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must.

[Bang Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Memoir about Joan Benoit - an American runner who won the gold medal at 1st Olympic Marathon. Not a super interesting story teller but some tit bits in the book can appeal to runners in general.

[Karina Dulin · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting to read Benoit's perspective on competition and inner drive. The book has the feel of an unfinished narrative, and as her greatest accomplishments have come as age-group records in her 40s and 50s, that's just as it should be.

[Elisabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up a Tom-boy in Maine, much of this book reminded me of home and childhood. As a runner her story highlights the struggles and possible successes of a running career. Given when the book was written and her decades of success since, it is a fun read to understand her thought at the beginning.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite quote of this book states, "Don't lose sight of your goals. No matter what the obstacles are, don't let anything deter you from your best effort. Don't allow anyone to tell you what you can and cannot do. Be tough, be stubborn, love yourself, and find friends who believe in you. Most of all, recognize your victories..."

[Esther · Rating 4 out of 5]

gearing up for the Olympics with this book by the 1984 womens marathon winner. Very interesting hearing the psychology behind running 26 miles. She took to swimming during a spell with a knee injury and complains that its really boring. Honestly, runners...

[Kate · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was kind of surprised at how down to earth and homey Joan's voice is. And it's not often that you can run wicked fast and write in a readable manner, too. She's pretty inspirational.

[Kristen Iworsky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Needed a dose of motivational reading as I start my marathon training... didn't get too much though.

[James · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a whole lot you can do to make a life dedicated to a strict training regimen, interesting, and she (Joan Benoit Samuelson), was not up to the task.

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

This would have benefited greatly from a more ruthless editor.

[Florence · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating insight into this great runner and she gives plenty of great advice too, marathon runners take note