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Given To Fly: An Improbable Story of Triumph, Tragedy and Realization at the Western States 100
252 pages, Paperback
Published April 17, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
April 27, 2026
Page turner from start to finish.
July 6, 2026
Such a well told, fast paced and honest story! Just Wow! I read about Jason’s surprise pacing in Buckle Fever, ( or else he told me in person, I can’t remember), but reading it with all the build up…just Wow! So happy I found you at TrailCon and was able to buy your book in person! It will be on my shelf next to Eat and Run, and Buckle Fever and both of John Trent’s books as forever keepers and one I’ll read again! What an inspiring story!
April 13, 2026
I'm just a little bit biased, so you may have to take my review with a grain of salt, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I have had the privilege of Brian's acquaintance and have shared many a mile out in the great PNW. He helped lead a training camp back in 2007, just a year after his epic race featured in the book, and I will be forever grateful for the knowledge I gained as I tried to keep up. But this is a review of the book.
One of my favorite running books is Bill Bowerman and the Men of Oregon, and this has a similar vibe. Given to Fly lacks the deep historical reach contained within Kenny Moore's book, but I found myself feeling I was reading a shorter Puget Sound version. The cast of characters that Brian introduces us to is nearly as rich as he recalls his meteoric rise to the pinnacle of the sport, Western States. We get glimpses of running greats like Jurek and Koerner, and lesser-known icons for those who know, like the McCoubreys. We are taken back to the heyday of SRC when the sport was the wild west and pro contracts were maybe a pair of shoes and a shirt. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the Pearl Jam tie-ins. Yeah, it's got a little bit of PJ.
If you're a runner, at any distance, I think you'll enjoy this book. If you like adventure-type stories, read on. I could quibble about the writing a little, which explains my 4 star vs 5, but for a first-time author, great job, my man. For me, the true mark of a good book is how long it takes me to read. I picked this up and barely put it down until it was finished.
One of my favorite running books is Bill Bowerman and the Men of Oregon, and this has a similar vibe. Given to Fly lacks the deep historical reach contained within Kenny Moore's book, but I found myself feeling I was reading a shorter Puget Sound version. The cast of characters that Brian introduces us to is nearly as rich as he recalls his meteoric rise to the pinnacle of the sport, Western States. We get glimpses of running greats like Jurek and Koerner, and lesser-known icons for those who know, like the McCoubreys. We are taken back to the heyday of SRC when the sport was the wild west and pro contracts were maybe a pair of shoes and a shirt. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the Pearl Jam tie-ins. Yeah, it's got a little bit of PJ.
If you're a runner, at any distance, I think you'll enjoy this book. If you like adventure-type stories, read on. I could quibble about the writing a little, which explains my 4 star vs 5, but for a first-time author, great job, my man. For me, the true mark of a good book is how long it takes me to read. I picked this up and barely put it down until it was finished.
May 24, 2026
A wild story about victory, defeat, and the unwavering courage to finish what you started! Brian is funny, relatable, and one hell of a determined athlete. The story flows well and is hard to put down at points. The tragedy that occurred for him is heartbreaking but I believe he comes back stronger and recognizes there’s more to life than races and running. That the real “winning” is the people and life you surround yourself with
May 1, 2026
Loved this book! Am I interested in running? No. Am I interested in ultra running? Also no. However, this story was captivating! I devoured this book. The author showed as much passion, mental strength and grit, as he showed vulnerability. I was emotional in several instances as if I were there seeing his journey myself. Thank you for sharing your story. 5 stars!!
May 17, 2026
Such a powerful journey of self discovery and determination.
Brian shared his most inner emotional battles and determination to be the best that he could be. Loved reading his dedication or some may say obsession to Pearl Jam 🎶. I could imagine him running through the hills and extreme heat with Pearl Jam music pushing him further and further.
Brian shared his most inner emotional battles and determination to be the best that he could be. Loved reading his dedication or some may say obsession to Pearl Jam 🎶. I could imagine him running through the hills and extreme heat with Pearl Jam music pushing him further and further.
May 12, 2026
An honest, thoughtful exploration of what drives someone to strive for excellence in an extreme sport — and what sustains someone through the devastating blows that can come with high stakes competition. I couldn’t put it down!
April 23, 2026
Incredible story.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews