I admit, I am a sucker for books about running. Run Like a Girl is about that, indeed, but also so much more. In fact, the book is about becoming empowered, and happy, by living life to the fullest - where the term “run like a girl” comes to stand for something strong and powerful and awesome, instead of something weak and prissy and ineffective.

We women have all been teased in grade school about running like girls, but author Mina Samuels shows us that running - and actually any kind of physical activity, from rock climbing to yoga to skiing and swimming - can be something to boast about, feel good about, and stand tall and proud about. The book is filled with inspirational, motivational, sad and hilarious stories of the author’s own experiences, as well as those of other women who found through much trial and error their own “inner girl runner.”

Some of the insights are heartbreaking, such as how marriages are broken on the running trail, or how injuries can shatter dreams of physical achievement, but others are empowering and make the heart sing - yes, you can find your soul mate and sole mate on the running trail! Yes, even after having children you can still unleash your inner athlete! Yes, even after suffering all sorts of running related injuries you can still live to see another 10k.

What this book does most is show how, for women as well as men, taking on physical challenges and empowering the body often lead to happier, more fulfilling lives in all areas. To take on the open road is metaphor for taking on the open road of life, and Mina Samuels really motivates the reader to look at the act of running in a whole different way. It’s not just about losing weight or even getting in shape. It’s about body, mind and spirit coming together, and overcoming challenges and obstacles, and finding friendship, love and the joy of sharing in a passion.

It’s about running towards life, open armed and open hearted and open minded. Running like a girl. I will pass this book on to every woman I know.