Running Man

In 'Running Man', Charlie Engle shares his extraordinary journey from addiction to becoming an ultra-endurance runner. With a spirit of resilience, he recounts how running transformed his life, pushing him to limits few dare to explore. As he races across deserts and mountains, each kilometer becomes a metaphor for overcoming personal demons. Engle's gripping narrative blends adventure, vulnerability, and inspiration, compelling readers to reflect on their own challenges. This book is not just about running; it's a powerful testament to the human spirit and the pursuit of redemption.

By Charlie Engle

Published: 2017

"In the depths of struggle, I found my strength; every step I took was a testament to my will to not just survive, but truly live."

Running ManBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

"After a decade-long addiction to crack cocaine and alcohol, Charlie Engle hit rock bottom after a near-fatal six-day binge ended in a hail of bullets. Then he found running, and it has helped keep him sober, focused and alive. He began to take on the most extreme endurance races, such as the 155-mile Gobi March, and developed a reputation as an inspirational speaker. However, after he made the documentary Running the Sahara, narrated by Matt Damon, which followed him on a 4500-mile crossing of the desert and helped raise $6 million, he was sent to prison after failing to complete his mortgage application properly. It was while he was in jail that he became known as 'The Running Man' as he pounded the prison yard, and soon his fellow inmates were joining him, finding new hope through running. Now, in his brilliantly written and powerful account, Engle tells the story of his life and how running has brought him so much pleasure and peace. Like such classics as Born to Runor Running with the Kenyans, this is a book that anyone who has ever found solace in the freedom of running will enjoy"--Google Books.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Running Man

About the Author

C

Charlie Engle

Charlie Engle is an acclaimed author, adventurer, and motivational speaker known for his compelling narratives that intertwine themes of perseverance and the human spirit. His notable works include 'Running Man,' a memoir that details his remarkable journey as an ultra-marathon runner and his battles with addiction. Engle's writing style is characterized by its candidness and vivid imagery, allowing readers to experience his adventures and insights on a deeply personal level. With a passion for inspiring others, Engle shares his experiences not only through his books but also through public speaking engagements and community outreach.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Charlie Engle
Published
September 2017
Publisher
Simon and Schuster
ISBN
1476785791
Language
English
Pages
304
Genres
Overcoming AdversitySports and FitnessMotivationalFitness Motivation

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Shut Up and RunBook binding

Shut Up and Run

Robin Arzon

Born to RunBook binding

Born to Run

Christopher McDougall

The Runner's World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon TrainingBook binding

The Runner's World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training

Amby Burfoot, Bart Yasso, Pamela Nisevich Bede, Jennifer Van Allen, Editors of Runner's World Maga

Better Than BeforeBook binding

Better Than Before

Gretchen Rubin

Year of YesBook binding

Year of Yes

Shonda Rhimes

RelentlessBook binding

Relentless

Tim S. Grover, Shari Wenk

SuperBetterBook binding

SuperBetter

Jane McGonigal

Tuff JuiceBook binding

Tuff Juice

Caron Butler, Steve Springer

Swimming to AntarcticaBook binding

Swimming to Antarctica

Lynne Cox

Be FearlessBook binding

Be Fearless

Jean Case

A Curious MindBook binding

A Curious Mind

Brian Grazer, Charles Fishman

Amazing Things Will HappenBook binding

Amazing Things Will Happen

C. C. Chapman

212 the Extra DegreeBook binding

212 the Extra Degree

Sam Parker, Mac Anderson

Get Off Your "But"Book binding

Get Off Your "But"

Sean Stephenson

Tough As They ComeBook binding

Tough As They Come

Travis Mills, Marcus Brotherton

UnflinchingBook binding

Unflinching

Jody Mitic

The Champion's ComebackBook binding

The Champion's Comeback

Jim Afremow

Secrets of StrengthBook binding

Secrets of Strength

Earle Liederman

BoldBook binding

Bold

Steven Kotler, Peter H. Diamandis

"It Always Seems Impossible Until It's Done."Book binding

"It Always Seems Impossible Until It's Done."

Kathryn Petras, Ross Petras

Black Box ThinkingBook binding

Black Box Thinking

Matthew Syed

A Different Way to WinBook binding

A Different Way to Win

Jim Rooney

40 ChancesBook binding

40 Chances

Howard G Buffett, Howard W. Buffet

A Message to GarciaBook binding

A Message to Garcia

Elbert Hubbard

What It Takes to Be #1Book binding

What It Takes to Be #1

Vince Lombardi, Jr.

Let Your Life SpeakBook binding

Let Your Life Speak

Parker J. Palmer

Back from the DeadBook binding

Back from the Dead

Bill Walton

Rebuilding Sergeant PeckBook binding

Rebuilding Sergeant Peck

John Peck, Dava Guerin, Terry Bivens

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.

View Collection
Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant's Book Recommendations

Naval Ravikant is an entrepreneur, angel investor, and philosopher, best known as the co-founder of AngelList, a platform that connects startups with investors. Ravikant is a prolific thinker and writer on topics such as startups, investing, and personal well-being, sharing his wisdom through essays, podcasts, and social media. He has invested in over 100 companies, including Uber, Twitter, and Yammer, making him one of Silicon Valley’s most successful angel investors. Ravikant is also known for his philosophical musings on wealth, happiness, and the meaning of life, which have garnered him a large and dedicated following.

View Collection
Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen's Book Recommendations

Marc Andreessen is an American entrepreneur, software engineer, and venture capitalist, best known for co-creating the Mosaic web browser, the first widely-used web browser, and co-founding Netscape. Andreessen is also the co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms, where he invests in groundbreaking technology companies like Facebook, Airbnb, and Coinbase. He is a thought leader on the impact of technology and innovation, often sharing his views on the future of the internet and startups. His contributions to the development of the web and the tech ecosystem have made him one of the most influential figures in technology.

View Collection
Gary Vaynerchuk's Book Recommendations

Gary Vaynerchuk's Book Recommendations

Gary Vaynerchuk, also known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and social media personality. He initially gained prominence through his family’s wine business, turning it into a digital juggernaut with his online content and wine reviews. Gary is now the CEO of VaynerMedia, a full-service digital agency, and has authored multiple bestsellers, including Crush It! and Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. He is known for his blunt, motivational style and advice on business, marketing, and personal branding. Gary continues to inspire millions with his focus on hustle, entrepreneurship, and leveraging digital platforms for success.

View Collection
Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink's Book Recommendations

Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL officer, renowned for his leadership during the Battle of Ramadi in the Iraq War, which earned him the Silver Star and Bronze Star. Transitioning from military service, he co-authored the best-selling book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" with fellow SEAL Leif Babin, which has become a cornerstone in leadership and management literature. Willink has also written the "Way of the Warrior Kid" series, aimed at empowering young readers with principles of discipline and resilience. Additionally, he hosts the popular "Jocko Podcast," where he discusses leadership, discipline, and personal development. Willink's influence extends beyond literature through his Echelon Front leadership consultancy, helping organizations implement effective leadership strategies.

View Collection
David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel's Book Recommendations

David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.

View Collection
Elizabeth Filips's Book Recommendations

Elizabeth Filips's Book Recommendations

Elizabeth Filips is a celebrated contemporary author known for her poignant and thought-provoking novels that explore the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Her debut novel, "The Silent Echo," garnered critical acclaim for its deep character development and lyrical prose, earning her a nomination for the prestigious Man Booker Prize. Filips' ability to weave intricate narratives has established her as a distinctive voice in modern literature. She is also an advocate for mental health awareness, often incorporating these themes into her writing to shed light on personal struggles and resilience. In addition to her novels, Filips has contributed essays and short stories to various literary magazines, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and impactful writer.

View Collection
George Raveling's Book Recommendations

George Raveling's Book Recommendations

George Raveling is a celebrated figure in the realms of sports and literature, best known for his profound impact on basketball and his contributions as an author and speaker. As a pioneering African American coach, he broke barriers in collegiate basketball, notably serving as the head coach at Washington State, Iowa, and USC. Raveling is also renowned for his profound influence off the court, particularly as a Nike executive and motivational speaker. His literary contributions include "Coaching for Success," a book that blends his coaching philosophy with life lessons. Additionally, Raveling is a custodian of an important historical artifact—an original copy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech, which he obtained while volunteering at the 1963 March on Washington.

View Collection
Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld's Book Recommendations

Brad Feld is a prominent American entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and author known for his influential work in the startup ecosystem. Co-founder of the Foundry Group, he has played a pivotal role in funding and mentoring early-stage technology companies. Feld is also a key figure behind the Techstars accelerator program, which has helped launch numerous successful startups. As an author, he has penned several essential books on entrepreneurship and venture capital, including "Venture Deals" and "Startup Communities," which provide invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors. His writings and active blogging have cemented his reputation as a thought leader in the tech and startup communities.

View Collection
Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason's Book Recommendations

Nat Eliason is an influential writer, entrepreneur, and educator known for his insightful work on personal growth, productivity, and digital marketing. He founded Growth Machine, a successful SEO and content marketing agency that has helped numerous companies expand their online presence. Eliason's thought-provoking articles on his blog cover a wide range of topics, from philosophy to health, attracting a large and engaged audience. Additionally, he authored "Effortless Output with Roam," a comprehensive guide on using the Roam Research tool for knowledge management. Through his diverse contributions, Eliason has established himself as a significant voice in the realms of self-improvement and digital strategy.

View Collection
Nick Huber's Book Recommendations

Nick Huber's Book Recommendations

Nick Huber is a renowned entrepreneur and writer, best known for his insightful contributions to the business and self-improvement literary genres. He gained widespread recognition through his practical advice and motivational content, which has empowered countless individuals to pursue personal and professional growth. Huber's notable works include a series of bestselling books that combine his entrepreneurial experience with actionable strategies for success. In addition to his writing, he is a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at various conferences and events. Huber's influence extends beyond literature, as he continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and leaders.

View Collection
Tom Bilyeu's Book Recommendations

Tom Bilyeu's Book Recommendations

Tom Bilyeu is an American entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and co-founder of Quest Nutrition, one of the fastest-growing companies in the health and wellness industry. After selling Quest, Bilyeu founded Impact Theory, a media company focused on empowering individuals to unlock their full potential through content, interviews, and personal development strategies. Bilyeu is passionate about mindset and the role of mental toughness in achieving success, frequently sharing insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. His content aims to inspire others to break free from limiting beliefs and pursue their dreams.

View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

View Collection
Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong's Book Recommendations

Brian Armstrong is a renowned entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding and leading Coinbase, a major cryptocurrency exchange. His literary contributions include insightful writings on the future of digital currencies and blockchain technology. Armstrong's work has been pivotal in demystifying complex financial systems for a broader audience. Beyond his business acumen, his thought leadership in publications and public speaking engagements has cemented his status as a key voice in the fintech revolution. His dedication to innovation continues to influence the trajectory of global financial systems.

View Collection
Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard's Book Recommendations

Brendon Burchard is a high-performance coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, best known for his books High Performance Habits and The Motivation Manifesto. He helps individuals and organizations achieve peak performance through strategies focused on clarity, energy, and productivity. Brendon’s work emphasizes the importance of personal growth and developing habits that lead to sustained success. He has coached Fortune 500 CEOs, Olympians, and other high-achieving individuals. Brendon is also the founder of the High Performance Academy, where he trains people to lead more impactful and successful lives.

View Collection
Sarah Pritula's Book Recommendations

Sarah Pritula's Book Recommendations

Sarah Pritula is an acclaimed novelist known for her evocative storytelling and richly detailed characters. Her debut novel, "Whispers of the Forgotten," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize in 2015, establishing her as a formidable voice in contemporary literature. Pritula's work often explores themes of memory, identity, and the human condition, resonating deeply with readers worldwide. In addition to her novels, she has penned numerous short stories and essays, many of which have been featured in prominent literary journals. Her contributions to literature have earned her a place among the most influential authors of her generation.

View Collection
Jim Kwik's Book Recommendations

Jim Kwik's Book Recommendations

Jim Kwik is a renowned brain coach and founder of Kwik Learning, known for his expertise in memory improvement, brain performance, and accelerated learning. He is the author of the best-selling book "Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life," which has empowered countless individuals to optimize their cognitive abilities. Through his popular podcast, "Kwik Brain," and numerous speaking engagements, Kwik has inspired millions worldwide with practical strategies for mental enhancement. His work emphasizes the potential of lifelong learning and the power of self-belief. Kwik's contributions have significantly influenced both educational methodologies and personal development practices.

View Collection
Justin Kan's Book Recommendations

Justin Kan's Book Recommendations

Justin Kan is an entrepreneur and author best known for co-founding the live video platforms Justin.tv and Twitch, the latter of which was acquired by Amazon for nearly a billion dollars. He has significantly impacted the tech industry with his ventures in live streaming and gaming. Kan has also shared his entrepreneurial journey and insights through various articles and public speaking engagements, inspiring a new generation of tech innovators. His contributions to literature include writing about startups, technology, and personal development. Additionally, Kan co-founded Atrium, a legal tech company, further showcasing his diverse entrepreneurial expertise.

View Collection
Amelia Boone's Book Recommendations

Amelia Boone's Book Recommendations

Amelia Boone is a renowned American obstacle racer and ultrarunner, celebrated for her remarkable achievements in the sport. She has won multiple world championships, including the Spartan Race World Championship and the World's Toughest Mudder. Boone's compelling personal journey and resilience have inspired countless athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Though primarily known for her athletic prowess, Boone has also contributed to literature through insightful articles and motivational writings on endurance, mental toughness, and overcoming adversity. Her story continues to influence and empower individuals striving for excellence in both sports and life.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

In the depths of struggle, I found my strength; every step I took was a testament to my will to not just survive, but truly live.

Running Man

By Charlie Engle

Frequently Asked Questions