Rating: 4 out of 5

Solo takes readers on a grand adventure—or rather, six big adventures—as Jenny embarks on a journey across six different mountain ranges around the world. In the earlier chapters, especially in the Atlas Mountains and the Andes, I really felt immersed in the culture and landscapes of the regions she was running through. However, by the time we reach the Rockies and the Transylvanian Alps, the narrative shifts. It starts to feel more like a task to be completed rather than an experience to savor, which took away some of the sense of wonder. Still, Jenny’s resilience and determination shine through, even if the later challenges felt more like a job than an adventure.

Some highlighted passages:

“Running anywhere in the world, as a woman, I will always hear advice and even criticism about safety. From a very young age, I learned that the world is not seen as a place for women. There are only certain hours and certain neighbourhoods we’re allowed to exist in. But exploration, movement and self-expression should be available to everyone. It is never lost on me how fortunate I am - on many levels - to be able to run like I do. But my expedition across Morocco allowed me to almost walk that proverbial mile in the shoes of women in North Africa, who experience life in a far more disadvantaged way than I ever will.”

“Maybe girls aren’t raised to be brave - it’s definitely a trait that was applied more often to boys in my generation.”

“Bravery is about being yourself and pursuing your own path. Tap into your bravery, and let it lead your life.”

“After the first five expeditions had armed me with the skills and lessons I needed, all that was left was to become brave enough to use my strengths.”

“please believe in yourself, be brave and go have an adventure on your own terms. Solo. You’re tougher than you think.“

Originally posted to my Goodreads account