One Track Mind: What Running 150 Miles in a Day Can Teach You About Life

I simply cannot settle on any one superlative, or even a handful that adequately describe the mind-boggling human effort ultra-athlete Michael Stocks describes in his book ”One Track Mind.”

Michael’s wonderful storytelling of his 24-hour endurance run provides intimate glimpses into the mental gymnastics, the physical toll, and the emotional turmoil of preparing for and completing this phenomenal feat. After all, this Herculean task, competing in the “Self-Transcendence 24 Hour Track Run,” is being completed, step by agonizing step, by a fellow human. Even so, while Michael shares many deeply personal feelings, I still cannot comprehend his resolution, grit, and willingness to push through to the very end of this daunting, unimaginable race.

Michael’s brief, vignette-like chapters transported me along my own life-path, constantly reminding me of trials or joys, moments of euphoria or despair that I felt at different milestones in my life. I was carried along with him via his narrative and was even moved close to tears as he drew me into his confidence and shared his innermost sensitivities.

“One Track Mind” is a book that I (and many who read it) undoubtedly will turn to again, and perhaps again, as a source of encouragement whilst we all struggle to survive in this troubled and confounding world. Michael’s wonderful narrative of indomitable courage and persistence may very well help others to continue another step further in their life’s journey … albeit each in their very own way. (Read on my Kindle)