I must confess the reason I loved reading this book is not that I'm a runner, a former runner, a fan of running, although the sport has been of interest for many years. And not because Finn has written an enjoyable, interesting, self-effacing journey-of-discovery tale filled with unique observations and fascinating facts; a good read, to be sure.

No, the main reason I loved this book is its portrayal and descriptions of Iten, the town on the Rift Valley Escarpment that is the main setting and a locus for serious long-distance runners from around the world.

You see, I lived very near Iten when it was just a sleepy district center before becoming the marathoner's mecca.

How wonderful to read the town has grown with a number of training camps, the Kerio View Hotel (just in the planning stages back in my day), and yet remains recognizable despite all the growth. It seems the old Kapteren Show Grounds (where I first met my wife) has become a village center of its own, going by the name Kapshow.

Even the venerable Brother Colm O'Connell is there, still coaching and mentoring young runners, at the legendary St. Patrick's Boarding School. Just as he was all those years ago when I had the honor of meeting him and sharing a meal with him. The track and field team from the school where I taught (Kipsoen Harambee School) would compete at St. Patrick's.

So, a reminiscence for me but still a recommended book for runners, those who enjoy a real-life adventure, and a grassroots glimpse into another culture.