Oh, where do I begin with this book? It's a self-published novel that really seems like one: heavy use of a thesaurus, a lot of indulgent scenes and characters that just disappear. There were a few great moments and descriptions, but not worth the slog and misogynistic tone. Some of this can be blamed on the times in which it was written (in the mid-70s) and the fact that it's directed toward a very narrow audience. Either way, I don't usually read books about running, as I sort of compartmentalize the running as escapism part of my life from my reading books as escapism. But, I did love The Running Dream and HIGHLY RECOMMEND that book for inspiration. As for Once a Runner, if you're a runner (especially a competitive male one) and like to read a story to nod your head along to while proclaiming "TOTALLY!" - then this is the book for you.