The Boy Who Runs

Advance praise for The Boy Who Runs Brant proves again why he is one of our best sportswriters, masterfully weaving a compelling narrative of an African country at war, along with the transformation of a young man from athlete to humanitarian. . . . [Achon s] life story is a shining example of the Olympic spirit. Booklist (starred review) Fantastic . . . Brant does a beautiful job of chronicling the tension. . . . Indeed, his work is first-rate throughout the book, and it makes for a read-in-one-sitting story. Publishers Weekly (starred review) Inspiring . . . Achon s difficult journey as an athlete and humanitarian reveals how sport can provide a valuable avenue of hope for those seeking to rise above tragic circumstances, and how true sportsmanship is not about winning but about harnessing strength that contributes to creating a better world. Library Journal Inspiring . . . With breezy, accessible prose, Brant s profile incorporates African history and insider details on the physical demands of race-running, strategies for success, and how Achon personally paved the way for others like him to succeed with pride and humanitarianism both on the track and in everyday life. A bright, uplifting biography about determination and giving back. Kirkus Reviews This is an astonishing story about an amazing athlete who outruns not only the grinding poverty and deprivation of the Ugandan bush but brutal war and imminent death, then dedicates himself to saving his family and friends. This man has the heart of a lion. I couldn t put this book down. John L. Parker, Jr., author of Once a Runner An instant classic . . . John Brant has given us an epic, moving, and ultimately hopeful story about the power of sport and friendship to transcend boundaries and make the world a better place. Daniel Coyle, author of The Talent Code Ace writer John Brant unearths meanings and connections forged in the fires of competition. Julius Achon runs for his life, then for his sport, and finally for his people. This is a book you can t put down and won t forget. Benjamin Cheever, author of Strides: Running Through History with an Unlikely Athlete The Boy Who Runs tells Julius Achon s story with gripping detail and anecdote, while never once slipping into cliche or sentimentality. It s an inspiring tale of linked cultures African and American and what they can achieve together. Amby Burfoot, editor-at-large, Runner s World