From the author of the groundbreaking book The End of Nature, a "wry, wise, thought-provoking book about what it takes-and what it means-to endure for the long haul." (Jon Krakauer, author of Into Thin Air)

Bill McKibben was thirty-seven when he decided to put himself to the ultimate test: training to become a competitive cross-country skier. Taking a year out of his life, the celebrated environmental writer and journalist began a rigorous fitness program followed by world-class athletes and Olympic hopefuls. McKibben's year of living strenuously would culminate in a series of long-distance races-including a major ski event in Norway.

Along the way, he learns to cope with his physical limitations and discovers something about the real meaning of endurance when his father is diagnosed with a life-threatening brain tumor.

Both an action-packed memoir and a moving and inspiring meditation on what it means to endure, Long Distance tells the story of a man at midlife who pushes his body and soul to the breaking point. Written with the author's trademark humor and honesty, it offers insight into conquering fear, overcoming obstacles, and achieving balance in our lives. It is "a wonderful book-funny, humane, inspiring." (Bill Bryson, author of A Walk in the Woods)