What Makes Olga Run?

A fascinating look at the way we age today and the extent to which we can shape the process.

“Grierson uses Kotelko as a springboard for an examination of the factors that allow athleticism so late in life: genes, body type, early diet, exercise, emotional health. There are a lot of insights, ending with nine rules for a productive, long life: Rule 1 is ‘Keep moving.’ Rule 4 is ‘Be a Mensch.’ Rule 9 is ‘Begin now.’ For the others, read the book.” —The Washington Post

In this inspiring look at the human body, mind, and spirit. Bruce Grierson sets out to uncover what it is that’s driving Olga Kotelko, a wildly successful, record-breaking track star who also happens to be in her nineties. Drawn both to her athletic achievements and the almost supernaturally slow rate at which she is aging mentally and physically, Grierson considers every piece of the puzzle, from her diet to her sleep habits to how she scores on various personality traits, from what she does in her spare time to her family history. What emerges is not only a tremendously moving and uplifting personal story and portrait of an enduring and unlikely friendship, but a comprehensive exploration of the aging process in the twenty-first century, and what we can do to shape it.

“Prepare to have your crossword puzzle-sharpened minds blown by Olga Kotelko. . . . Even readers who have no intention of walking more, let alone sprinting, will find their view of ‘the golden years’ indelibly altered after learning about this remarkable track star.” —The Boston Globe

“While this book provides an accessible overview of the current science on aging, its charm comes from the tale of a woman who refuses to hang up her track shoes, and the younger man she inspires.” —The New York Times

“Exhilarating . . . [Girerson’s] deft re-creation of the moving and humorous bond between Kotelko and himself gives the book its center. A stimulating and inspiring read for all.” —Library Journal (starred review)