Again to Carthage by John L. Parker Jr. Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Again to Carthage
Book Review: I'd buy "Again to Carthage"
Summary: 4 Stars
The book was enteraining. Parts were predictable. The marathon in the book accurately portrayed what a runner goes through in an all out marathon. The author/characters in the book tend to look down upon non-elite runners. I would recommend this book.Book Review: If you enjoyed "Once A Runner"
Summary: 4 Stars
An enjoyable read for "Once A Runner" fans, "Again to Carthage" has some slow spots and some sloppy editing. Parker has an excellent grasp of what a runner experiences when training and most serious runners will enjoy his insights (the explanations about why try to get back into shape later in life seem applicable to anyone who tries to resume a running career.) Be sure to read OAR first, if you enjoy it, by all means read this. If you are not moved by OAR, give it a pass...Book Review: It all comes together in the end.
Summary: 5 Stars
I was overanxious at the beginning of this book to get back to the very clear, and precise running descriptions of Once A Runner. I was a little purturbed that it did not happen right away. Instead, Parker took time to build his characters, recount history, and lay the foundation for everything that went on during the "mental circus act" of the marathon. During this time, the events of Once A Runner, and the 1st half of Again to Carthage were brought together beautifully. My initial misunderstanding of what Parker was laying out at the beginning of the book was erased as the book went on. Kudos to Parker for showing a lot of maturity and wisdom from were he began in Once A Runner to were he is now in Again to Carthage. Running is not life; however, there are many paralles between the two. Again to Carthage is the perfect balance.Book Review: Like many a marathoner, this book hit the wall at the 20 mile mark
Summary: 3 Stars
As an avid runner, I really enjoyed Once a Runner, so I was eagerly anticipating its long awaited sequel. I really enjoyed first 276 pages, and the whole book took me no time at all to read. The development of the different characers and the rounding out of Quenton's charcter were wonderful. My only disappointment was the end. I thought last 70 pages were just could have offered so much more. In the last 75 pages he does have one of the funnier passages in the book, but other than that highlight it was disappointing. I don't think it is disclosing too much to say this book, like the first, ends with a race. However, this race was way too hokey and unrealistic. Not wanting to give away any details for those who have yet to read it, is will simply say there were several other events throughout the last chapters that were not written up to the same high standards as the begining. That said, it was a good and easy read, it just that end left a little to be desired in my mind.Book Review: Long Awaited Sequel Worth the Wait
Summary: 5 Stars
"Once A Runner" is pretty much considered "required reading" for any serious runner. Any runner who read the first book can find something to identify with in Quenton Cassidy's "trials of the miles"
I always wondered if we would ever get a sequel as the end of "Once A Runner" was pretty open ended. "Again to Carthage" had been in the works for a long time and had been long delayed. I had pretty much given up on it until I saw the article on it (and interview with John Parker) in Runner's World. I remember gently teasing my son when he was waiting for the "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" to come out and realized I was just like him with this book. It came in the mail over Turkey Day break, so I stayed up all night and read it cover to cover after my wife and son hit the sack.
OK, so was it worth it? I'd say very much so! Am I going to re-cap the entire story in this review? Hell No, I won't ruin it for you. What I will say is that the story picks up several years after the events of "Once A Runner" and that our hero has settled into a fairly successful life as a lawyer (and recreational runner). However, he starts to get that "feeling" of wanting another mountain to climb. A couple of tragic events involving those close to him kick him into action. This time the challenge is making the Olympic Marathon Team.
To help him, he once again calls on his buddy and fellow Olympic medalist Bruce Denton to provide coaching and inspiration. While there isn't as much detail in specific training like in "OAR" you still feel like you are with Quenton every step of the way.
So what happens at the end? Sorry can't tell ya! :) I WILL say this. Runners World editor Amby Burfoot reviewed "Again to Carthage" (you can find it on the net). He said, "The last three paragraphs are perfect". When I got to the end of the book and read them, I grinned and said "Here Here". Read it and see if you agree. Like me, you will probably see it coming, but it is satisfying nonetheless!
Enjoy!