Guide Rating - 
The Bottom Line
This is a great book for motivation and anecdotes but it isn't great as a stand alone program for training for most people.
Pros
- Includes Training Programs
- Funny and Enjoyable to Read
Cons
- Following its Program Doesn't Allow for Group Training
Description
- Cowritten by Runner's World columnist John "The Penguin" Bingham and coach Jenny Hadfield
- 8 training programs that cover both the half marathon and marathon
- Tips for food, clothing, shoes, and more
- Help with motivation and overcoming common roadblocks
- 240 pages
Guide Review - Marathoning for Mortals by John Bingham
This book does include several training programs as well, but, for first time marathoners, especially fairly new runners, they just aren't enough to get you through the miles. A lot of runners do better in group programs that focus on pulling together, not standing alone, to get through miles and miles of long runs before the marathon.
However, this book is definitely enjoyable and chock full of anecdotes and tips. It is a great book to read to keep you trucking down the marathon path. It is a great gift for the soon-to-be marathoner in your life, even if that's you!
