Bryony Gordon ran the London Marathon. A confirmed party animal and lover of burgers, she started to run when she discovered that exercise really does help mental health. This book is about both mental and physical health, body positivity and… Prince Harry.
I’d read Bryony’s previous two books. The first, The Wrong Knickers, is a portrait of her wild twenties, a time of drugs, booze, one night stands, terrible relationships and eating disorders. The second, Mad Girl, is both a confession and a self-help guide, as she talks about her depression and anxiety. Her writing style is humorous and exuberant, so I knew what to expect for Eat, Drink, Run.
I applaud the positive messages which this book reinforces. Basically, Bryony is saying that you can do anything if you put your mind to it and if there are kind people around to support you.
This was an easy read, with some similar material to Mad Girl. There are some humorous incidents and serious, soul-searching moments. I did feel that the content was repetitive at times but the book (and of course the marathon) are excellent achievements. It seemed less interesting towards the end. I think that was because of Prince Harry.
Let me explain. As a mental health campaigner and journalist, Bryony was invited to meet the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince Harry, the patrons of an umbrella organisation which comprised several mental health charities. That’s when she somewhat casually agreed to run the marathon, to raise funds. She then meets the royals a few more times, culminating in an interview with Harry in which he opens up about his mental health. This is all great and important, but there is too much about it in the book. The transcript of the interview was not needed. I’m not a fan of the royals and would’ve preferred more details of the actual marathon (which occupies just one chapter, at the end).
In summary, I liked this book and found it inspiring. However, I wouldn’t read it a second time.
First published in 2018 by Headline.
I’ve seen this book advertised for ages but wasn’t sure whether it was something I’d like to pick up. It actually sounds interesting and I don’t mind reading about the royals,lol. But it sounds weird that the marathon is only in one chapter as I thought that the cover showed it was mainly about the marathon (I’ve seen a different cover to the one in your picture though)??
It’s quite funny at times and also inspirational. I think if you’re interested in mental health, running, and the royals, you will like the book. Yes it’s about the marathon but focuses on the training – the event itself is the last chapter. I think the original edition of the book has a picture of Bryony on the front on marathon day, while the paperback edition has her on the back cover 🙂
Thanks, I must have seen the first addition of the book 🙂 I’m definitely going to read it now, thanks to your lovely review 🙂 🙂 <3
This sounds a bit like Running Like a Girl by Alexandra Heminsley, which is awesome and actually inspired me to go jogging. I found it fascinating how something as simple as running can be such a mental battle and help with poor mental health.
I haven’t heard of that one. Running really does help mental health. I haven’t been able to run for a while cos of a cold/sinus problem but I’m looking forward to running again 🙂
Aw, are you ok? ?
It’s a really inspirational, funny book and it’s also full of really useful advice ?
I’m all right, just about… thanks.
I’ll look that book up 🙂