North - Jenny Jurek & Scott Jurek

North

By Jenny Jurek & Scott Jurek

  • Release Date: 2018-04-10
  • Genre: Biographies & Memoirs
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 224 Ratings

Description

From the author of the bestseller Eat and Run, a thrilling memoir about his grueling, exhilarating, and immensely inspiring 46-day run to break the speed record for the Appalachian Trail.

Scott Jurek is one of the world's best known and most beloved ultrarunners. Renowned for his remarkable endurance and speed, accomplished on a vegan diet, he's finished first in nearly all of ultrarunning's elite events over the course of his career. But after two decades of racing, training, speaking, and touring, Jurek felt an urgent need to discover something new about himself. He embarked on a wholly unique challenge, one that would force him to grow as a person and as an athlete: breaking the speed record for the Appalachian Trail.

North is the story of the 2,189-mile journey that nearly shattered him. When he set out in the spring of 2015, Jurek anticipated punishing terrain, forbidding weather, and inevitable injuries. He would have to run nearly 50 miles a day, every day, for almost seven weeks. He knew he would be pushing himself to the limit, that comfort and rest would be in short supply -- but he couldn't have imagined the physical and emotional toll the trip would exact, nor the rewards it would offer.

With his wife, Jenny, friends, and the kindness of strangers supporting him, Jurek ran, hiked, and stumbled his way north, one white blaze at a time. A stunning narrative of perseverance and personal transformation, North is a portrait of a man stripped bare on the most demanding and transcendent effort of his life. It will inspire runners and non-runners alike to keep striving for their personal best.

Reviews

  • North

    5
    By Viklee
    In the midst of covid-19 close down, I felt like I got to go on an adventure each day with Scott and Jenny Jurek. It was amazing!
  • Pure

    5
    By Koda Valencia
    This is a must for those who are called by a deeper connection; a pursuit of what never truly goes away! Pure, and raw.
  • North

    5
    By meliginestre
    Loved this book! A fantastic journey not only physically and emotionally but spiritually and a welcome escape through these difficult times. A compelling triumph of human motivation and grit (for both Scott and his team!) this is a book is a must read.
  • Thoroughly enjoyable

    5
    By Bearomine
    A great book for anyone who has spent time on the trail, whether running or backpacking, who understands the desire/need to challenge oneself. Jurek's account of his time on the AT illustrates the gamete of emotions encountered by those in the pursuit of greatness, and reminds us that success comes through incredible will and determination. I loved reading about the journey not just through Scott's eyes, but from his wife's perspective as well. I was able to relate to many episodes described in the book, and found myself longing to be out on the trail again in search of a new adventure. Very motivating and insightful. Wishing the Jurek family continued good health and thanks for being great role models.
  • Great read for hikers, runners, or lovers of long trails!

    2
    By ZacHuxley
    I downloaded the electronic copy of North and read it each night during the first few weeks of my Appalachian Trial thru hike. Every night I wouldn’t want to stop reading but I knew to save chapters for the nights that lie ahead! North gives you a true glimpse of what it takes to attempt a fastest known time, not only from the perspective of Scott as an athlete but also from his wife Jenny who supported him throughout the 2,200 mile 46 day trip. The book will leave you feeling inspired and help us understand why any couple or team would take on such a challenge and the difficulties that are faced along the way.
  • Outstanding

    5
    By sagebrush 2
    I read every book I can find about those who traverse at AT. The detail and personal insights by both authors enriched my life. Both are excellent writers and their journey has inspired me to seek the road less traveled. Thanks
  • Fantastic read!

    5
    By Rarely works
    I really enjoyed this read and found the story (told from both Jenny and Scott’s perspectives) to be fascinating. The story extends beyond the details of the race and has a good mix of backstory, humor and history. A must read for runners and would recommend to anyone who enjoys fitness, the outdoors or just a great read!