Heather D. (icantswim) - reviewed on 1/26/2022 + 71 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I quite enjoyed this book! The value of this book is in its positive messaging and vulnerability. The positive messaging is relatable and low-key. I've read books with messaging that is just too over-the-top in its sugary or superficial positivity. This is not that. This is a book about a normal person who found she had a talent and interest in running. She is not overly obsessive about her sport. She just decided to keep trying at it and see how far she could go and how good she could get. Turns out she could become very good as it took her to the Olympics.

Pappas is not trying to portray a glamorous life nor is the book all about "look-at-me-I-went-to-the-Olympics." Rather, only a very small part of the book is about being at the Olympics. What Pappas offers us instead is an open and honest look at all of the personal family struggles that took place before the Olympics and the mental health issues she faced after the Olympics. This book is very raw and depicts very honest vulnerability while at the same time thought-provoking and heartwarming. It shows us that even going to the Olympics is not all bright and shiny. And that there is so much more to her life than being an Olympian.

She is not about motivating others but instead she talks about the mindset she developed that helped her to overcome her hard times. It is this growth mindset that "losses and setbacks are instructional, not damaging" that makes this book so relatable and worthy.

I highly recommend!

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