Becoming Forrest

One man's epic run across America

By: Rob Pope

Narrated by: Rob Pope

Length: 12 hrs and 46 mins

Publisher's Summary

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.

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.

©2021 Rob Pope (P)2021 HarperCollins Publishers Limited

Critic Reviews

"The real Forrest Gump, bringing a legendary fiction to life with 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)

"Rob Pope is a real-life Hollywood superstar!" (Dean Karnazes, author of Ultramarathon Man)

"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)

"Rob Pope has made his name revelling in challenges that range from the unconventional to the extraordinary." (BBC News)

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!

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

life Affirming...no shit!

Even better than the great I was confident it would be. The full box of chocolates.

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"

great story!

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

Not that interesting

It’s not a bad book. It’s just a bit dry and boring. Nothing really happens although I have great respect for the author’s accomplishments.

The author as narrator was horrible. I had a hard time understanding what he was saying due to his thick accent.

Forrest

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

Incredible story, beautifully told

Remarkable feat beautifully told, describing one man ‘making a difference’ and his encounters along the way. Ron’s affection and enthusiasm shine through this story and his eye for the natural world adds real local colour to his experiences
Anyone who thinks his accent is strong has clearly never actually been to Liverpool!

One of the best ever sporting achievements. This book isn’t just for runners. It’s a feel good book

Straight from the start this book had me hooked. It may be that the author was the guy reading it so u know it was all from the heart. Having to sort your finances on the hoof repairs to Jenny and Pramsolo as and when needed as well as over 15,621 miles in 422 days of running is one of the biggest running achievements I’ve heard of (5 times across America ) wow. This guys even takes time to help injured animals along the way and isn’t scared to step in when people mis treat them. If you have done any distance running you will understand the mixed feeling you get,but to carry on day in day out makes Rob Pope an absolute icon. He even tells us how he threw some really quick marathon races in at the end. I even shed a tear when he talks of his No1 fan. His mum. Don’t think I’ll find a book to top that

Political and poorly told

The author is a socialist with crazy views that shine through. It is very off putting throughout. The story is pretty boring when the actual
Challenge completed was a nothing short of amazing, the story wasn’t gripping and it was a hard listen at times with no gripping moments.

Brilliant audiobook. A stunning story that is warmly delivered.

Devoured this audiobook. It’s a great listen.
A passionate tale that is brilliantly narrated by the author.

Listen to it if you love running.
Listen to if you love adventure.
Listen to if you love people.

Inspirational and entertaining. He’ll have to go some for the sequel…

inspiring!

Awesome inspirational story of an epic journey! Loved every sentence, paragraph and chapter. Probably my favourite book ever! Really interesting to hear of the happenings as Rob travels across the US and makes you want to be the best you can be in all that you do! Thanks for sharing and doing what you did Rob! 🧢

Good book overall

Enjoyed this book, well narrated and very natural. The story, in parts felt a bit the same but overall a really inspiring one.

Inspiring!

Loved it! Made me want to run (down the road for me - I'm not a runner!)
The places never get dull in Rob Pope's telling. I'll give it a month then listen again. Best buy on Audible so far for me!

fantastic!

Just a brilliant and heart-warming story about one guy's need to make a difference

Loved it

Such a heart warming story delivered by the author which always improves the experience

My experince

What an epic listen. the account is fascinating and inspiring. the positivity is refreshing and I've had the privilege of meeting such a humble gentleman in person. we spoke for 15mins before we even mentioned running, or who he was. ironic really as it was at a running event. its my privilege to say I've met, spoke, made fun of and shared a mutual dislike of festival port-a-loos... we all have bonds.