Everything is Beautiful and Everything Hurts

Mickey Bloom is a five-foot-tall, dyslexic girl, often bullied and convinced she's nothing special. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers running, a talent that unveils a new side of her: powerful, strong, and extraordinary. However, Mickey's newfound success comes at a cost. The relentless training and immense pressure to win break her spirit, shattering her dreams.

Years later, Mickey finds herself in a dead-end job and entangled in a relationship with a drop-kick boyfriend. Her life takes another turn when her mother becomes seriously ill. Nursing her mother back to health becomes a pivotal moment for Mickey. In a desperate attempt to overcome her grief and find herself, she takes up running again. A chance encounter with a stranger reignites her dreams and shows her what it means to run in the right direction.

This compelling debut novel exposes the physical and emotional sacrifices demanded of our sporting elite while celebrating success without flinching from examining its brutal costs. From the aching miles to the soaring highs, Shapiro's storytelling is chilling yet ultimately heartwarming, capturing the stamina and spirit required to chase dreams.

Sue Orr, author of Loop Tracks, remarks, "Everything is Beautiful and Everything Hurts is sophisticated storytelling that will capture the racing hearts of its readers." Kirsten McDougall, author of She's a Killer, adds, "You don't have to be a runner to get the high, just read this book!"

With its unforgettable portrayal of change, family, and grit, this is a narrative about what it truly takes to achieve your dreams. Josie Shapiro's accomplished debut has the compulsive forward motion of a world-class race, making it an essential read for anyone who has ever strived for greatness.