“So many titles exist about the joy of running or how to become a runner, but rarely has there existed a book honoring the choice and/or necessity to take leave of the sport. Not only does she pay homage to all that the sport has done for her and her community, but Dimity also takes time and space to honor her own body and spirit, inviting other longtime runners to offer their stories as well. When you are ready to make that decision, make sure to read this first.” 

—Mirna Valerio, runner, adventurer, and author of A Beautiful Work in Progress

“Runners tie their identities to their hobby like few others. It serves us well—until it doesn’t. Then what? The grief and loss are real when running is no longer an option. The 27th Mile is the gentle, kind, and sound advice we didn’t know we needed in order to move on to the next phase of life.” 

—Erin Strout, journalist and writer

“The 27th Mile is far more truthful and helpful than that old runners’ canard, ‘There is no finish line.’ In fact, we all stop running at some point—whether from burnout, injury, or aging. McDowell understands that we must grieve first, but then get going again. Sadness gives way to revival and new life-sustaining practices. Yes, you can.”

—Amby Burfoot, author, Boston Marathon winner, and longtime Runner's World editor