Choosing To Run: A Memoir

Two-time Olympian Linden has had an extraordinary career in distance running, including her historic win in the 2018 Boston Marathon—a race she thought she might have to abandon because she was recovering from an injury. Instead, she became the first American woman to win the race in 33 years. Linden narrates her debut memoir (written with Bonnie D. Ford), covering hard topics with candor. Though listeners may be aware of her remarkable win in Boston, details of the race combined with her backstory make for a suspenseful listen. Ups and downs aren’t dramatically presented but quietly reveal her personality as someone who keeps putting one foot in front of the other. Linden’s understated narration grippingly conveys her triumph over health problems, broken bones, and the politics of running, doping, and COVID cancellations of competitions. Throughout it all, she proves that determination and dedication are the keys to her success in running and life.