401: The Man Who Ran 401 Marathons in 401 Days and Changed His Life Forever
Ben Smith ★★★★★
Find out more about the 401 Challenge:
https://www.the401challenge.co.uk/
Read more reviews on Goodreads:
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37941674-401
What an adventure!
Here are my "magic of threes" on Smith's novel:
1. Inspirational & Motivational
Reading Will's story, I was in awe of his courage to recreate a new life for himself and work through his emotional trauma. This novel follows his rise and reflections of some of the lowest points of his life and presents an inspirational comeback story. The charity and goodness of Will's heart is beautiful.
2. Heartfelt and emotion-packed
This novel explores many raw and honest emotions that come along with bullying and discrimination. Will's retelling of his experiences with the physical and mental abuse is emotive and I found myself holding my breath throughout chapters in shock. This novel is emotion-packed and explores a wide range of experiences and feelings: happiness, sadness, gratitude, anger...
I enjoyed the descriptions and retellings from his friends and family that were included in the novel.
3. Well-written, great narrative
In terms of writing, Will's novel is well-written and presents an entertaining narrative. I enjoyed its jumps to Will's personal history and the use of a gripping frame narrative to present Will's life. I cannot wait to see what he will get up to next!