It only took a few pages for me to feel as though I'd been transported back to one of my favorite classes at Cal: Sociology of Sport. We learned about the commodification of athletes, discussed gender roles, and debated requirements of student athletes. Having learned many of my greatest life lessons on the sport's field, much of the class was easily relatable to my life or things I'd been through, making much of the class content immediately tangible.

It only took a few more pages for me to realize this book was nowhere near the text I thought it would be. Written in a conversational tone, the author's poorly quoted research and platitudes weaken what could be a very inspirational read. With the title, Run Like a Girl, I expected a book about running that would provide me with personal stories of how running inspired, motivated, changed the lives of others...not so much. In fact, there is very little text about running itself. I'll save you a trip to the library or $16.95 and share the main premise of this book:

* sports can be incredibly empowering to women. Where a woman's strength can be questioned in various other realms of her life, she can rediscover, find, or uncover her own strength in sport.

Having discovered running relatively late in life, after the birth of my second child, I expected a great deal from this book. I have seen first hand just how much sports, and running in particular, can in fact empower a woman. Training for a half marathon taught me more about myself than any other single endeavor. Finishing my first half marathon ranks up there with one of the most memorable days of my life. The ladies who joined me for the journey, a journey we had no idea would impact us so greatly or forge a bond so deep, will be lifelong friends.

Extremely disappointing book. I read through page 100 and skimmed the rest. I highly recommend Run Like a Mother or Mile Markers if you are looking for an inspirational running read.