7 Best Running Books Every Marathon and Ultramarathon Runner Should Read (Perfect Christmas Gifts!)

Last edited December 15, 2025, by Etienne Durocher

Whether you’re looking to stay motivated for your next marathon, dream about your first ultramarathon, or simply want to dive into the inspiring world of running, books can be a powerful companion. The right story will teach you mindset, strategy, and the joy of long-distance running — all from the comfort of your favorite chair.

Plus, with the holidays around the corner, these running books make perfect Christmas gifts for the runners in your life — or a little self-indulgent “stuffing” for your own holiday stockings.

Here’s a curated list of the 7 best running books that every runner should read, reordered to take you on a journey from beginner inspiration to ultramarathon wisdom.

What You Need to Know First

Books about running go beyond training tips. They inspire, teach, and remind runners why we push ourselves mile after mile. From personal memoirs to adventure tales, these books explore:

• Mental toughness and perseverance

• The science of endurance

• The joy and struggle of training for long distances

• Cultural and personal stories from iconic races and runners

Even if you’re a beginner, these stories show you that every runner has doubts, setbacks, and victories — and that the journey is just as important as the finish line.

Before we dive in, here’s a quick takeaway: a great running book is like a personal coach you can hold in your hands — except it never yells at you, only inspires you.

The 7 Best Running Books

Below, each book is presented with author, year, and a short description highlighting why it’s essential reading.

1. Born to Run – Christopher McDougall (2009)

A classic every runner has on their shelf. McDougall explores the Tarahumara tribe in Mexico, renowned for their ability to run hundreds of miles with ease. He blends science, adventure, and personal storytelling into a book that challenges everything you thought about endurance and running shoes.

Perfect for: anyone who wants inspiration and insight into the philosophy of running.

2. Finding Ultra – Rich Roll (2012)

Rich Roll’s memoir chronicles his transformation from an unhealthy, stressed-out lawyer to an elite ultramarathoner. With lessons on vegan nutrition, mental resilience, and self-discipline, it’s a roadmap for anyone looking to reinvent themselves through running.

Perfect for: runners seeking motivation for lifestyle and performance change.

3. Eat and Run – Scott Jurek (2012)

Legendary ultrarunner Scott Jurek combines memoir, adventure, and practical insights on endurance nutrition. His stories from races like the Western States 100 inspire while offering actionable tips for fueling your long runs.

Perfect for: runners curious about the intersection of diet, endurance, and mindset.

4. Marathon Woman – Kathrine Switzer (2007)

Kathrine Switzer, the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon, tells her incredible story of breaking barriers and redefining women’s running. This memoir is a mix of history, personal courage, and race-day anecdotes that still resonate today.

Perfect for: anyone interested in women’s running history and empowerment.

5. Road to Sparta – Dean Karnazes (2012)

Ultrarunner Dean Karnazes recounts his experience running the original 246-km Spartathlon in Greece. This book blends history, adventure, and mental toughness, providing an inside look at extreme endurance racing.

Perfect for: runners fascinated by ultra-distance races and mental grit.

6. The Terrible and Wonderful Reasons Why I Run Long Distances – Matthew Inman (2012)

A humorous and relatable exploration of why runners push themselves to extremes. Inman’s witty storytelling captures the contradictions of long-distance running — pain, joy, obsession, and obsession-with-pain — all in a lighthearted, entertaining way.

Perfect for: runners who enjoy funny, introspective, and relatable tales.

7. What I Talk About When I Talk About Running – Haruki Murakami (2007)

Acclaimed novelist Murakami shares his experiences as a long-distance runner alongside reflections on writing, discipline, and life. His contemplative and poetic prose turns everyday runs into profound meditations on effort and endurance.

Perfect for: runners who love reflective, thoughtful insights on running and life.

Feeling inspired yet? Pick a book from this list, grab a cozy chair, and let it fuel your next long run or training session. For more running tips, marathon prep, and beginner guides, explore other posts on philotimorunningcoach.ca/blog — reading is just the start of your running journey.

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Practical Tips: How to Make the Most of Running Books

Running books aren’t just for leisure. They can enhance your training, improve mental toughness, and even influence your race strategy. Here’s how:

Read Before or After Long Runs

Settle in with a book during a recovery day or a pre-long-run mental warm-up. These stories prime your mind to handle endurance stress with resilience.

Take Notes on Mindset and Strategy

Many of these books include practical advice on pacing, nutrition, and recovery. Keep a notebook handy to jot down lessons you can try on your next run.

Share With Fellow Runners

Books are excellent conversation starters. Discussing stories like Born to Run or Finding Ultra with your running group adds motivation and accountability.

Use Books as Holiday Motivation

With Christmas approaching, stack a few of these titles under the tree. They make thoughtful gifts that combine inspiration with practical running knowledge. A perfect way to nudge someone into the sport or elevate an existing runner’s mindset.

Final Thoughts

The world of running is rich with stories, lessons, and inspiration. From beginners taking their first steps to ultrarunners chasing impossible distances, these seven books cover the full spectrum of human endurance and motivation.

Pick one for your next rest day, curl up with a cup of tea, and let a running legend guide your thoughts. You’ll return to your next run energized, enlightened, and inspired.

Which of these books is on your reading list? Or have you already read one that transformed your running journey? Share your thoughts in the comments — your insight might inspire another runner!

And if you’re ready to train for your next marathon or half-marathon with personalized guidance, reach out today — let’s make your running journey smarter, safer, and more enjoyable.