Becoming Forrest: One man's epic run across America

One man's epic run across America

De: Rob Pope

The remarkable true story of an unrivalled journey to recreate the greatest run in film history: 15,621 miles, five-times across the United States.

‘Rob Pope has made his name revelling in challenges that range from the unconventional to the extraordinary.’ BBC News

Becoming Forrest is the incredible story of Englishman Rob Pope, a veterinarian who left his job in pursuit of a dream – to become the first person ever to complete the epic run undertaken by one of Hollywood’s most beloved characters, Forrest Gump. After his momma urged him “to do one thing in life that made a difference”, he flew to Alabama, put on his running shoes, and sped off into the wilderness.

His remarkable journey covered 15,600 miles, the distance from the North to the South Pole and a third of the way back. Over a grueling 18 months, braving injuries, blizzards, forest fires and deadly wildlife, he crossed the United States five times. During one of the most turbulent periods in recent American history, Rob immersed himself in American life. His time on the open road saw him forever changed, trying to make that difference, in the process of Becoming Forrest.

This is a tale of one man who just wanted to make a difference.

Reseñas de la Crítica

‘Rob Pope is a real-life Hollywood superstar!’ Dean Karnazes, author of Ultramarathon Man

‘A simply staggering feat of endurance and storytelling. The tenacity, curiosity and humour of Rob’s amazing journey comes through in every page of this wonderful tale about people, discovery and a very, very long road.’ Mark Beaumont, author of The Man Who Cycled the World

‘With tons of humour Rob Pope takes us into one of the greatest running journeys. Lace up your shoes and enjoy this excellent book!’ Kilian Jornet, runner and author of Above the Clouds

‘What Rob has achieved both physically and mentally is mind-blowing, a true feat of human endurance.’ Tom Evans, Ultrarunner

‘A very readable and entertaining travelogue about an effing extraordinary run.’ Damian Hall, author of In It for the Long Run: Breaking records and getting FKT

‘Most of us watched that scene and thought: cute. Pope watched it and thought: could that be possible? … Like Gump, Pope also experienced what it was like to drift through America when history rears its ugly head. … He brightens people’s day. Pope is serious about running, but, just like Gump, he doesn’t overthink it. Why should someone run? “Because you want to,” he says.’ The Observer

‘A stirring chronicle … What quickly becomes striking — on top of the extreme distance of his runs, often “forty miles every day without rest” — is Pope’s innate curiosity and fascination with the world around him. … This is sure to inspire distance runners as well as those interested in a hearty slice of Americana.’ Publishers Weekly starred review

A must listen to book about running while running

I'm always looking for new things to listen too during my training runs. Becoming Forrest is an excellent answer. Not only is it a captivating story, but it also provides motivation for what ever level of running you are at. "If Rob can run xyz (not giving away any secrets) then I can surely do whatever my training plan has in store for me today"

A phenomenal adventure

I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to the adventure that was Rob Pope's 5 time run across America... His insight, his humor, his observations all come together in this fascinating and enjoyable tale. A story for all ages, I do think his narrative brought the story alive in a fashion that I would've missed reading it myself. I would absolutely recommend this book, as there is something in it for everyone

great story!

I wish I could get this in the form of audio CD as a gift.

Forrest

I wish I could have seen you when you were in Michigan. Douglas Babcock

Incredible feat, told by a great storyteller

Having met Rob on his journey I am only slightly biased, but I can't recommend this book with more enthusiasm. As someone who lives vicariously through the extraordinary journeys of others - this one did not disappoint. It also adds the benefit of experiencing the United States in a way only a foot traveler can. A wonderful tale to enjoy!