Training and Racing 

 

The Competitive Runner's Handbook, by Bob and Shelly-lynn Glover

A comprehensive book on training and racing.

 

Daniels' Running Formula, by Jack Daniels

A scientific and quantitative approach to training by a highly regarded coach.

 

Listen to Your Pain, by Ben E. Benjamin

A great reference for understanding, avoiding, and recovering from injuries.  A new edition is expected in September 2007.

Fiction 

 

Once a Runner, by John L. Parker

About a collegiate runner who trains under a former Olympic champion to compete against the best miler in the world.  This book is out of print but used copies can be found online.

Non-Fiction 

 

Marathon Woman: Running the race to revolutionize women's sports, by Kathrine Switzer

Entertaining and inspiring story about the first woman to officially enter and finish the Boston Marathon and her pioneering efforts to promote women's health and fitness through distance running.

 

Running with the Buffaloes: A season inside with Mark Wetmore, Adam Goucher, and the University of Colorado Men's Cross-Country Team, by Chris Lear

A behind-the-scenes, day-to-day look at the triumphs and tragedies of the 1998 University of Colorado cross-country team, culminating in the 1998 NCAA national meet. This is a page turner that captures the harriers' highs and lows during difficult training and intense competition.

The Perfect Mile, by Neal Bascomb

The story of the quest for the first sub-4:00 mile.

 

Duel in the Sun, by John Brant

The story of Dick Beardsley and Alberto Salazar preparing for and racing the 1982 Boston Marathon, and how their lives changed after the famous race.

 

Bowerman and the Men of Oregon, by Kenny Moore

About the University of Oregon's legendary running coach, Bill Bowerman, and his athletes.

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