“The 27th Mile speaks to the heart of every athlete who’s had to pause, pivot, or let go. It’s a compassionate guide for rediscovering yourself when running no longer defines you—and proof that there’s still joy and purpose beyond the miles.” 

—Elyse Kopecky, three-time New York Times bestselling coauthor, Run Fast. Eat Slow, Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow, and Rise & Run

“This is not just a book; The 27th Mile offers a community in which we rethink our relationship with running and are given both tools and permission to thrive with or without it.” 

—Deena Kastor, Olympic Medalist, New York Times bestselling author of Let Your Mind Run

“As any runner knows, not being able to run, or moving on from a running career, is one of the hardest and painful things that can be experienced. As a woman hanging on to her running by a thread, I am comforted to know that there is a guide waiting for me when I reach the end.”  

—Kara Goucher, two-time Olympian and New York Times bestselling author of The Longest Race

“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