Again to Carthage

Again to Carthage is the sequel to Once A Runner, the classic running novel by writer John L. Parker, Jr. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as much as the first one.

This book also focuses on Quenton Cassidy, the protagonist of Once A Runner. In this book, Quenton has returned from the Olympics and is an established lawyer in Florida. He still engages in running, but spends a fair amount of time practicing law, playing in various recreational leagues, and boating down to the Bahamas where he dives and fishes. After the death of his friend and some of his kin in North Carolina, Quenton decides to try running competitively again. This time, however, he has his eye on the marathon. So, he enlists the help of his trusted friend and coach, Bruce Denton.

This book beautifully captures the thoughts of an aging male coming to terms with his mortality. Plus, it brilliantly portrays the trials and tribulations of training for a race.

Again to Carthage

Once A Runner

As a amateur runner (some might even say a wannanbe runner), I have been aware of the nover Once A Runner by John L. Parker, Jr. for a few years. I have tried to track it down for a number of years, but it was a rare release and copies could run upwards of $100. So, I was happy to see that the book was rereleased. I know that many of my running friends who have read it have raved about it and Runner's World practically worships the book. So, I was excited to read it.

I will say, the book did not disappoint.

The story centers around Quenton Cassidy, a collegiate miler at a Florida institution. He is a fan of running the 1600 during track season and essentially despises cross country season. The book is full of witty banter between runners as they log training miles. The story really captures the playful spirit of undergraduate athletes living, training, sweating, studying, and playing together. The story features the trials and tribulations of being an undergraduate and is full of lovable characters.

However, it is definitely also a story about running. I found the book to be so inspirational. It's given me new energy in my own runs. It's an entertaining and inspirational book.

Once A Runner

Raiders from the North: Empire of the Moghul

This book was an interesting piece of historical fiction. While not entirely fast-paced, it was nonetheless enjoyable.

The book centers around a central character, Babur, who at the beginning of the books becomes King after his father was killed in an earthquake. The rest of the book follows Babur's life as he progresses into adulthood, taking wives, winning and losing kingdoms. Babur is an easily likeable character, trusting friends and striving to make a name for himself as he acquires an empire.

Raiders from the North: Empire of the Moghul