Running with a Police Escort

December 5, 2016
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.

December 15, 2016
Cleveland librarian Grunenwald's closest connection to exercise was an occasional interest in the weight-loss show The Biggest Loser when she received a wake-up e-mail from her sister, who was worrying about her health. Then over 300 pounds, Grunenwald started dieting and running on her apartment complex's dreadmill. Soon, Grunenwald, who blogs and records a podcast about her experiences, could hardly believe that she, never before an athlete and still vividly remembering the traumas of childhood PE, was suddenly enjoying running. Her first 5K race became several, before she started running 10K races and half marathons. Whether she's writing about setting goals, finding the best sports bra ( Strap. That. Shit. Down ), or getting out of a running slump, self-proclaimed slow runner Grunenwald's chatty, confessional style will entertain readers and perhaps even inspire them to lace up, too. (Clevelanders especially will appreciate her detailed descriptions of race routes and the local running scene.) Readers will find that the author's unique perspective from the back of the pack challenges preconceived notions as it encourages stepping outside of one's comfort zones.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)