Ready, Set, Run!

Runners around the world spend months getting ready for a single day of racing. They train on city streets and country lanes, along beaches, up mountain trails, across open fields, in bright sun or pouring rain, and late at night. This picture book centers on the New York City Marathon, which is often called the world's most famous race.

The story follows runners who have traveled from many countries as they prepare for the event. They stretch, put together a playlist, and share a spaghetti dinner the night before. On race day, they cover the full course through all five New York City boroughs until they reach the finish line.

Short fun facts appear throughout, including one about a high school band stationed at Mile 9 that has played the "Rocky" theme again and again since 1979, until the last runners pass. Together, these details give readers an inside look at what it takes to run the world's largest marathon. Readers who enjoyed Balloons Over Broadway or The Philharmonic Gets Dressed may also like this one.