This book was not nearly as much fun to read as[b:Winterdance: The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod|2923|Winterdance The Fine Madness of Running the Iditarod|Gary Paulsen|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1448673588l/2923._SY75_.jpg|313253]. I agree with another reader that the first part of the book was fun and I did like the pictures. But there was just too much self-recrimination, doubt, and deep, irrelevant thinking in this book. The author worried too much about what other people thought of her and how her family would respond. This dampened the fun of reading the book. ( )

Brilliant memoir of an Iditarod racers gritty determination to finish this most grueling of sporting events. As someone who has an interest, but not much knowledge of the race this book has given me a much greater understanding of what it takes to be a musher on this arduous trail!
This book will appeal to anyone who appreciates great writing and outstanding storytelling. ( )

Debbie and her dogs race in the Iditarod. After being unable to finish the first time, she takes a year off, for her husband to race. Debbie and her dogs come back strong the second time. I thought this was an interesting book, but it seemed to be missing something. Debbie’s struggles seemed easy to overcome, and I know that they weren’t. Overall, not a bad book, but not a great book either. ( )

As a woman, I'm particularly thrilled by sports that are competitive for all genders. The Iditarod was one of the first events I can remember where women have received equal respect for their ability. And I'm bowled over by this true story of Debbie Moderow, a musher who runs two of the arduous races under terrible conditions. Her background as a hardy outdoorswoman, even from girlhood, is fascinating. All of her family members - husband and two children - have also finished the Iditarod or other races.

And then there are the amazing dogs - each one an individual, each one playing their essential role in their placement in the sled dog pack. Sometimes they revel in running and sometimes they balk. Debbie shares her love of each and also her frustration when they can't tell her what's wrong. Their joy, their fears, and Debbie's, make for a fascinating saga. I wish there were more dog pictures, but that's a minor quibble. Anyone who doesn't love adventure will, at book's end. ( )