Finish Strong
Teacher Resources

Finish Strong: Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days

Illustrated by Hui Li
Selected as a “recommended title” by the Kansas National Education Association’s Reading Circle Commission   Finish Strong: Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days is the inspiring true story of the ultimate marathon experience! Dave McGillivray, Boston Marathon Race Director, joined a team in 2018 to attempt the World Marathon Challenge. The first marathon was a desert—but not a desert with lots of sand and cacti. No, the first marathon took place in Antarctica! In only seven days, the team ran marathons on every continent: Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, South America, and finally, North America.
Clear

Related Books

Reviews

Selected as a “recommended title” by the Kansas National Education Association’s Reading Circle Commission

Kirkus Reviews
"Still hoofing along after literally Running Across America (2019), McGillivray offers another autobiographical outing. This one sends him over “26.2 cold, crunchy miles” in Antarctica, “26.2 miles of out-and-back loops along the Persian Gulf,” and like distances on five other continents in a single week as a participant in the annual World Marathon Challenge. . . . readers will be swept along to the finish line. (Picture book/memoir. 7-9)"

Children’s Literature
"In just twenty-nine brief pages, runner and race director McGillivray makes the impossible seem possible. In his autobiographical account of running seven marathons, on seven different continents, in seven consecutive days, McGillivray manages to both share a significant life event and provide readers with a truly inspirational story. Appeals to readers of all ages who are looking to read a true story of encouragement and reminds them to always finish their journeys, no matter what."

Michael Wardian, Marathoner, Ultra-marathoner, and World Marathon Challenge record holder for the fastest average marathon time
“Mind blowing! A colorful tour-of-the-world through the eyes of a determined runner with heart, humor, and tenacity. Finish Strong has me fired up to continue to push boundaries and to chase my dreams!”

Kathrine Switzer, first woman to register for and run the Boston Marathon & author of Marathon Woman
“Just run and you can see the world! Join Dave McGillivray's global adventure, be inspired, and finish with a smile on your face!”

Becca Pizzi, two-time World Marathon Challenge champion
“Finish Strong inspires you to step out of your comfort zone and dream big. Dave McGillivray shows grit and determination in this incredible run around the world!”

Frank Shorter, Olympic marathon silver and gold medalist
“Seven marathons on seven continents in seven days: It can be done! Just imagine what you might be able to do!”

Teacher Resources

Classroom Guide Icon

Classroom Guides

For educators! Download a packet of essential questions, mentor texts, and Common Core State Standards to use in classrooms and libraries.

Classroom Guide
Collection Icon

Collections

Looking for more? Take a look at related books in these collections!

Detailed Book Description

Selected as a “recommended title” by the Kansas National Education Association’s Reading Circle Commission

Finish Strong: Seven Marathons, Seven Continents, Seven Days is the inspiring true story of the ultimate marathon experience! Dave McGillivray, Boston Marathon Race Director, joined a team in 2018 to attempt the World Marathon Challenge. The first marathon was a desert—but not a desert with lots of sand and cacti. No, the first marathon took place in Antarctica! In only seven days, the team ran marathons on every continent: Antarctica, Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, South America, and finally, North America.

Travel the world with McGillivray as he overcomes incredible challenges, including freezing temperatures, soaring heat, sore legs, and sickness, to achieve his goal of finishing strong. A true story of determination, Finish Strong inspires readers to work hard at whatever challenge they choose to take on. Perfect as a read aloud or for independent readers.

Available In:
Hardcover, $16.95
9781647410391
Includes: Timeline | Maps
Specs: 8 x 11 size | 4-color interior | 32 pages
Subject: Language Arts
Content Focus: Language Arts
Leveling: Ages 7-10 |Grade Level 3-4 |

TABLE OF CONTENTS