The Long-Distance Runner: An Autobiography

Library Journal

Harrington, perhaps America's best-known socialist, is the author of 14 books, including The Other America. His autobiography is more political than personal. Committed to working within the system, Harrington provides behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Democratic convention process, showing how democratic socialists have worked to influence national policy. He relates encounters with Francois Mitterand, Willie Brandt, Olaf Palme, and Michael Manley, and gives a useful assessment of Ed Koch's transformation from liberal lawyer to conservative politician. Harrington also recounts the struggle to recognize sexism and racism within the socialist movement. Written as the author struggles with cancer, this is the memoir of a man who has dedicated his life to social justice. Bettina Drew, City Coll., CUNY