Strengths: An Inspiring and fabulously written account of one mans dedication and obsession with fell running. An absolutely gripping read. I loved his style - very modest considering his achievements - he writes from the refreshing point of view of someone who loves running, but who isn't an elite athlete. You come away thinking 'What a nice chap!'. (I also Bought Dean Karnazes' Ultra-Marathoner book 'Run' - its ok, but he just seems so full of himself after reading Richard Askwith).
Weaknesses: I feel lost now I've finished it. Maybe I'll start it again...
Overall: Highly recommended, whether you are a fell runner or not. Although I do think it probably helps if you know the Lake District - the magnitude of what these people achieve has more meaning if you've climbed some of these giants first! I requested this for Christmas (2011), and couldn't put it down. Wonderful descriptions of his own experiences on the fells, focused mainly on his 4 attempts at the Bob Graham Round (74 miles, 42 peaks, 24 hours) But also a great potted history of some of the greats of the fell running world over the years. When I started this book, the riveting opening chapter had me vowing never to be tempted by this crazy sport. But somehow I seem to be entering my first fell race this Easter...
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