Stronger Than the Dark: Exploring the Intimate Relationship Between Running and Depression

In his gripping memoir, Cory Reese offers a compelling and vulnerable insight into the pervasive destruction of depression. Drawing on lessons learned over a decade of ultramarathon running, Stronger Than the Dark offers a powerful new approach in the battle against depression: the willingness to embrace suffering.

In a moment of physical and mental crisis during a 314-mile race across Tennessee, he realizes with clarity life's ultimate purpose. We are here to endure. We are here to help others turn pain into peace. We are here to be a beacon of kindness and compassion.

Cory's beautifully broken path of healing speaks to anyone feeling lost in insecurity or despair, and gives hope that even in life's darkest moments, we can find the light.

"Cory demonstrates that there is strength in vulnerability. Anyone who has struggled with depression will be comforted by the constant message that we have nothing to be ashamed of, and that we are not alone."

Kara Goucher, two-time Olympian

"I'm a big believer that sports teach us many of the most valuable mental, physical, and spiritual lessons we can learn in life. Cory Reese has written a deeply personal memoir about overcoming depression with the healing lessons he learned as an ultramarathon runner. Whether you are a runner or not, the profound lessons in this book translate to all areas of life. Stronger Than the Dark is a powerful story of overcoming adversity with grit, courage, and unflinching honesty."

Darrin Donnelly, bestselling author of Think Like a Warrior

"Riveting and propulsive, Cory Reese proves that you needn't fear the darkness if you have the light inside."

Dean Karnazes, ultramarathoner and NY Times bestselling author

"Cory Reese's Stronger Than the Dark is worth its weight in gold--honest, funny, heartfelt, and ultimately inspiring."

Matt Fitzgerald, author of Life Is a Marathon