Running with a Police Escort: Tales from the Back of the Pack

Grunenwald, a librarian and podcast host, shares her life in fitness, from her middle school days avoiding gym class to the present, in which she is an enthusiastic slow runner of races. She often finishes last as the police reopen the streets, hence the title. She also documents her journey from being in denial about her unhealthy lifestyle to acknowledging it and taking action via Weight Watchers and, eventually, running. The story leads up to her first runs in Cleveland, where she lives, to her first race, her first destination race, and many other races. The author is open about her physical pains as a 311-lb. runner, her food cravings, and the mental hurdles she overcomes throughout her races and runs. No matter the challenge, readers witness her walking and finishing last with dignity. Readers can count on Grunenwald to be honest about herself and others, and sprinkled in the chapters are fun references to writers such as Joyce Carol Oates and Stephen King (she is a librarian, after all). This autobiography will appeal to and inspire those struggling to get healthy. (Jan.)