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RUN for the Love of Life: What I learned while running more than 10 000 miles through some of the harshest landscapes on Earth
Run for the Love of Life is a book for anyone who wants to feel alive, inspired, and filled with a renewed enthusiasm for the year ahead.
Run recounts the extraordinary journey of South African Erica Terblanche, an ordinary woman who manages to excel on the world stage of extreme distance-running in some of the most inhospitable and majestic landscapes across the planet.
Part travel novel, the story thunders from one exotic race location to the next, as we are pulled along with the runners who battle the elements and each other across the vastness of the Sahara in Egypt, the Atacama in Chile, the Namib Desert in Southern Africa, the great Grand Canyon, Turkish Cappadocia and the Kalahari Desert, to name only a few.
Raw and honest and infinitely human, this memoir shares wisdoms from the furthest edge of endurance and valuable life lessons which will enrich any reader - whether runner or not.While you may laugh, cry, and forget to take a breath at times, it is inevitable that Run will at some point remind you of your own great potential and long-forgotten dreams, and give you the courage to start again, whatever it is that you have been wanting to for so long.
Far more than just a book on running, at its heart, Run for the love of life is a story about love, forgiveness, perseverance, and growth, and about the important things in life that ultimately make us happy. Told with wit, humor and vulnerability, it is a book that will stay with the reader long after the final page is turned.
“After reading Run for the Love of Life, I feel compelled to take the first few steps. Even if it means learning to walk before I can run, Erica’s passion is infectious. This book will get you moving, if nothing else will.” - Michelle Bristow-Bovey (Journalist)
Run recounts the extraordinary journey of South African Erica Terblanche, an ordinary woman who manages to excel on the world stage of extreme distance-running in some of the most inhospitable and majestic landscapes across the planet.
Part travel novel, the story thunders from one exotic race location to the next, as we are pulled along with the runners who battle the elements and each other across the vastness of the Sahara in Egypt, the Atacama in Chile, the Namib Desert in Southern Africa, the great Grand Canyon, Turkish Cappadocia and the Kalahari Desert, to name only a few.
Raw and honest and infinitely human, this memoir shares wisdoms from the furthest edge of endurance and valuable life lessons which will enrich any reader - whether runner or not.While you may laugh, cry, and forget to take a breath at times, it is inevitable that Run will at some point remind you of your own great potential and long-forgotten dreams, and give you the courage to start again, whatever it is that you have been wanting to for so long.
Far more than just a book on running, at its heart, Run for the love of life is a story about love, forgiveness, perseverance, and growth, and about the important things in life that ultimately make us happy. Told with wit, humor and vulnerability, it is a book that will stay with the reader long after the final page is turned.
“After reading Run for the Love of Life, I feel compelled to take the first few steps. Even if it means learning to walk before I can run, Erica’s passion is infectious. This book will get you moving, if nothing else will.” - Michelle Bristow-Bovey (Journalist)
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2021
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39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 16, 2021
There are running-themed books that are good. Some very good. And then there are running-themed books that awaken, revitalise, ignite, and go on to be legendary. Erica Terblanche 's book 'Run - For the Love of Life' is one of these.
'Run - For the Love of Life' is a story of life and love, and running. Erica opens her heart to bravely share her life in this honest memoir. She elegantly weaves a colourful cloth of her experiences, travels, races, relationships, career changes, successes, and sorrows, which are related simply, but yet so beautifully, and without fanfare.
Erica's writing is as exceptional as her athletic accomplishments. Every word used counts. Like each step that makes up a kilometre, and each kilometre covered makes an ultramarathon completed, Erica's words, paragraphs and chapters take you on a journey through the dozen years and major events that are the focus of this book.
It is significant that Erica did not just win the women's category at almost all of the gruelling ultramarathons in which she competed; she blew away most of the field to stand or knock on the podium. Overall. Again and again, and again. Her hard-won achievements will uplift and inspire, motivate and encourage - especially women - whether or not you are a runner.
Erica's courage stands out in the telling of her life story. She exposes her soft underbelly and leaves you in awe of her resilience, determination, focus, and bravery as well as her kindness, compassion and wisdom.
You do not need to be interested in running or to be a runner to be enthralled by this book. The ultramarathon events in which Erica competed are portals to her experiences. This book is about so much more than running. Erica's narration of her extraordinary journey of her life - through racing and traveling, and the people she loves - will enrich yours.
'Run - For the Love of Life' is a story of life and love, and running. Erica opens her heart to bravely share her life in this honest memoir. She elegantly weaves a colourful cloth of her experiences, travels, races, relationships, career changes, successes, and sorrows, which are related simply, but yet so beautifully, and without fanfare.
Erica's writing is as exceptional as her athletic accomplishments. Every word used counts. Like each step that makes up a kilometre, and each kilometre covered makes an ultramarathon completed, Erica's words, paragraphs and chapters take you on a journey through the dozen years and major events that are the focus of this book.
It is significant that Erica did not just win the women's category at almost all of the gruelling ultramarathons in which she competed; she blew away most of the field to stand or knock on the podium. Overall. Again and again, and again. Her hard-won achievements will uplift and inspire, motivate and encourage - especially women - whether or not you are a runner.
Erica's courage stands out in the telling of her life story. She exposes her soft underbelly and leaves you in awe of her resilience, determination, focus, and bravery as well as her kindness, compassion and wisdom.
You do not need to be interested in running or to be a runner to be enthralled by this book. The ultramarathon events in which Erica competed are portals to her experiences. This book is about so much more than running. Erica's narration of her extraordinary journey of her life - through racing and traveling, and the people she loves - will enrich yours.
December 7, 2021
I am the author of RUN and as such I can't post a review of my own book. Instead I will post here a review by Gavin Goldblatt, a well-respected member of one of the largest and oldest trail running groups in South Africa.
This is what Gavin posted to the 4000-strong running group this morning;
"For your own sakes, I strongly suggest that everyone on this group reads Erica's autobiography.
I was disappointed when I heard she was writing one – in my experience they are generally self-indulgent and solipsistic, written by people with nothing to say and no talent for saying it. And I had never thought Erica was the sort of person to do something like this.
I should never have doubted her. I started reading it last night after the book launch, thinking it was a duty to a friend and I would make one chapter before it put me to sleep. Instead I stayed up until 2.00 finishing it.
My only complaint is that in the foreword Erica refers to it as a novel, which implies a work of fiction. It is the exact opposite – like Erica herself it is truthful and honest and real.
It is without doubt the best sporting autobiography I have ever read, and a lot more than just an autobiography. And I thought I knew Erica, but had no idea she is such a talented writer – her writing is, if anything, better than her running!"
Thank you Gavin. I am deeply grateful for your generous review.
Warmest wishes
Erica
This is what Gavin posted to the 4000-strong running group this morning;
"For your own sakes, I strongly suggest that everyone on this group reads Erica's autobiography.
I was disappointed when I heard she was writing one – in my experience they are generally self-indulgent and solipsistic, written by people with nothing to say and no talent for saying it. And I had never thought Erica was the sort of person to do something like this.
I should never have doubted her. I started reading it last night after the book launch, thinking it was a duty to a friend and I would make one chapter before it put me to sleep. Instead I stayed up until 2.00 finishing it.
My only complaint is that in the foreword Erica refers to it as a novel, which implies a work of fiction. It is the exact opposite – like Erica herself it is truthful and honest and real.
It is without doubt the best sporting autobiography I have ever read, and a lot more than just an autobiography. And I thought I knew Erica, but had no idea she is such a talented writer – her writing is, if anything, better than her running!"
Thank you Gavin. I am deeply grateful for your generous review.
Warmest wishes
Erica
November 16, 2021
RUN FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE – what a gripping, awe-inspiring, and moving life story! From the very first page, Erica makes a real and soulful connection with her readers. RUN instantly grabbed my heart and soul.
Written in a beautifully poetic style with epigraph intros and a dash of humour and wit, Erica shares her life stories with insights and wisdom beyond words. She takes us on an exciting journey that starts with tales of adventure and endurance races, and in between, we encounter stories of everyday life and unexpected happenings. What makes RUN so compelling, is the courageously open and honest way in which Erica shares her story.
While RUN is rich in running adventures, with its moments of euphoria and times of suffering, this extraordinary novel is not only about running. It’s an authentic memoir about LIFE itself – it takes us back to our dreams and aspirations, struggles and loss, love and friendship, and what we hope for. RUN is just brilliant! It resonates with everyone and inspires those seeking to make a difference, to reignite a dream, to take a step onto a new path.
Congratulations on your first novel Erica. Thank you for this beautiful gift in sharing RUN FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE with us!
Written in a beautifully poetic style with epigraph intros and a dash of humour and wit, Erica shares her life stories with insights and wisdom beyond words. She takes us on an exciting journey that starts with tales of adventure and endurance races, and in between, we encounter stories of everyday life and unexpected happenings. What makes RUN so compelling, is the courageously open and honest way in which Erica shares her story.
While RUN is rich in running adventures, with its moments of euphoria and times of suffering, this extraordinary novel is not only about running. It’s an authentic memoir about LIFE itself – it takes us back to our dreams and aspirations, struggles and loss, love and friendship, and what we hope for. RUN is just brilliant! It resonates with everyone and inspires those seeking to make a difference, to reignite a dream, to take a step onto a new path.
Congratulations on your first novel Erica. Thank you for this beautiful gift in sharing RUN FOR THE LOVE OF LIFE with us!
February 11, 2022
I find it difficult to review this book. Let me try explaining my thoughts as follows:
To me, "Run" has three themes; (1) Running and racing, (2) The search for purpose and (3) The authors search for love.
(1) When discussing running, I found "Run" beautiful and mesmerizing. I couldn't wait for the next race. Erica writes with a unique perspective and an amazing ability to notice (and remember) special little details that takes the reader with her into the race. She succeeded in awakening the love of running in me again. (Not that I've stopped running, but it has become a chore).
(2) When discussing the search for purpose in life, I found many themes that resonates with me, although it does not offer earth shattering new perspectives. Obviously it doesn't have to do that to be meaningful, and I think Erica succeeded in her purpose.
(3) The sections of the book that dwell on her search for love (multiple times) left me cold. To me personally, the book would have been better without it.
Would I recommend "Run" to my friends? I have difficulty answering that question. In the end, maybe not.
To me, "Run" has three themes; (1) Running and racing, (2) The search for purpose and (3) The authors search for love.
(1) When discussing running, I found "Run" beautiful and mesmerizing. I couldn't wait for the next race. Erica writes with a unique perspective and an amazing ability to notice (and remember) special little details that takes the reader with her into the race. She succeeded in awakening the love of running in me again. (Not that I've stopped running, but it has become a chore).
(2) When discussing the search for purpose in life, I found many themes that resonates with me, although it does not offer earth shattering new perspectives. Obviously it doesn't have to do that to be meaningful, and I think Erica succeeded in her purpose.
(3) The sections of the book that dwell on her search for love (multiple times) left me cold. To me personally, the book would have been better without it.
Would I recommend "Run" to my friends? I have difficulty answering that question. In the end, maybe not.
April 1, 2022
What an incredible book. Full disclosure I am not a runner, but this book is about so much more than running. Its about love and life, about daring to dream big and daring to truly challenge yourself and be the best version of yourself.
I was moved to tears a number of times, really touched by the human connections made throughout this book. Sometimes temporary but always profound. The desire for human connection and finding it sometimes where you least expect it, is moving and heart warming.
I highly recommend this book. You don't need to be into running to enjoy this book. If you have felt the inner conflict of needing to push yourself, do better, be a better person, you will relate to this book.
I was moved to tears a number of times, really touched by the human connections made throughout this book. Sometimes temporary but always profound. The desire for human connection and finding it sometimes where you least expect it, is moving and heart warming.
I highly recommend this book. You don't need to be into running to enjoy this book. If you have felt the inner conflict of needing to push yourself, do better, be a better person, you will relate to this book.
November 16, 2021
Wow – I loved it from start to end.
Thank you, Erica, for taking the time to write this memoir.
Erica so generously shares of herself in this book, by detailing experiences from young to now. She motivates me to want to get out there and take on a challenge, knowing that I am capable.
She shares her journey of running, her tips and tricks, and while her running choices have been extreme, there is so much more to the book and message than that. This isn’t about encouraging people to start running ultra marathons in the desert at all. It’s an honest account of a phenomenal woman, and I believe strength can be found in it for everyone.
I can’t wait to share it with all my friends!
Thank you, Erica, for taking the time to write this memoir.
Erica so generously shares of herself in this book, by detailing experiences from young to now. She motivates me to want to get out there and take on a challenge, knowing that I am capable.
She shares her journey of running, her tips and tricks, and while her running choices have been extreme, there is so much more to the book and message than that. This isn’t about encouraging people to start running ultra marathons in the desert at all. It’s an honest account of a phenomenal woman, and I believe strength can be found in it for everyone.
I can’t wait to share it with all my friends!
February 5, 2022
An earth-shatteringly brilliant book! Exquisitely paced and incredibly well written, ‘RUN’ explores some of life’s greatest challenges, moments, and questions with unparalleled insight from Erica’s personal journeys and adventures. The author’s experiences and personal philosophies seem otherworldly and prophetic while remaining intensely relevant to every individual. Besides the book’s incredible depth, it is an entertaining and transfixing read that offers transportive passages about the stunning natural world. This is a book that I will return to again and again.
April 5, 2022
Erica Terblanche takes you on her spiritual journey while running more than 10 000 miles.
This book shares her adventure racing experiences and is full of wisdom nuggets. As a female runner I found this to be very motivational and inspiring, not only for running, but also to be more independent and adventurous as a woman.
Words of caution - I fear that, if you do not enjoy running or appreciate outdoor adventures, you will not enjoy this book.
This book shares her adventure racing experiences and is full of wisdom nuggets. As a female runner I found this to be very motivational and inspiring, not only for running, but also to be more independent and adventurous as a woman.
Words of caution - I fear that, if you do not enjoy running or appreciate outdoor adventures, you will not enjoy this book.
April 16, 2025
I thought the predictable "aim" of this this book was to inspire one to start running, but above and beyond that, it has inspired me in so many other facets of my life - to have a constant gentle curiosity of not only my body's limits but also my mind's limits. To know that on just on the other side of exhaustion and pain is joy and boundless energy. To look at life through romanticised lenses and carry gratitude with me in both the ups and downs. Beautiful book!
December 12, 2021
Beautifully written autobiography that is not just about running; it keeps your attention from the very first page. You can feel the heat in the vivid descriptions of the desert races, the energy in taking part in challenging events while holding down a responsible position. And a life lesson in finding peace.
November 22, 2021
Full of heart, courage and authentic truths. An awe- inspiring life story of what it takes to break through the threshold of pain, redefining the limitless potential of the human spirit. Love lost and love found, a journey of self-discovery like no other.
January 3, 2022
One of the most inspirational books I’ve ever read 👌🏻💫
March 2, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It is about endurance in running and life.
It is about so much more than running.
Read it and see what it can do for you.
It is about so much more than running.
Read it and see what it can do for you.
January 13, 2023
An inspirational story about passion, love, endurance running and chasing life's answers. Erica's awareness of the environments she runs in is poetic and the vulnerability of her story, inspiring.
February 23, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. It is so beautifully written and inspiring. So many pockets of wisdom feathered throughout.
March 16, 2025
Fantastic book.
February 15, 2022
Absolutely loved this book.
Very inspiring and a great read for any runner.
Very inspiring and a great read for any runner.
October 22, 2022
Erica is incredible, inspirational, and motivational. She gives us all hope that we can accomplish our dreams at any age! Her perseverance is admirable and her giving heart is so beautiful. She lives her life with purpose!
I had the honor of speaking with Erica on my Soulful Series podcast. You can check it out here:
https://youtu.be/07zZn77auKU
I had the honor of speaking with Erica on my Soulful Series podcast. You can check it out here:
https://youtu.be/07zZn77auKU
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews