The Last of the Giants - by Doug Mayer (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

Two hundred miles through the mountains in five days, with almost no sleep: Italy's Tor des Géants is one of the world's hardest races. Why put yourself through it?

This compelling graphic novel illuminates both the appeal and the physical and psychological turmoil of running day and night for a week through some of the wildest terrain on earth-and what universal lessons about life, suffering and love are learned along the way.

In The Last of the Giants, Sam Hill takes on Tor for a third time-after failing, twice. Amid exhaustion, hallucinations, and unforgettable encounters both real and imagined, he pushes the limits of body and mind to discover more about himself and his place in the world.

Inspired by the real-life experience of American ultrarunner Doug Mayer, this graphic novel blends fiction and reality, delving into what it means to be human, our need for spiritual understanding, and our drive to explore our limits.

With a unique inverted format--read one way, then the other--this immersive story offers a fresh perspective on extreme sports and the search for something greater than ourselves. A gripping read for anyone passionate about adventure and personal challenge.

Review Quotes

"A surprising read that will appeal to anyone who loves an adventure." -La Voix du Nord

"Inspired by Doug Mayer's personal experience, this graphic novel explores our need for spiritual quests, and our desire to surpass ourselves." -Jogging international

"A book that makes us question why we put ourselves through all this!" -Gilles Ratier, BD Zoom

"Illustrator William Windrestin succeeds with great finesse and inventiveness in bringing this race to life. He makes us feel the vertigo, the doubts, the pain, but also the strength of spirit of the runners and, above all, their humanity." -Le Bateau Livre

"Between exhaustion, hallucinations, and memorable encounters with scientists, doctors, and even a Buddhist monk, this book explores the limits of the body, the mind... and the ego." -1 2 3 Savoie

"The Last of the Giants explores the possibility of disassociating pain from suffering, of grappling with fears and demons--in short, of living a sensory and spiritual experience, similar to a psychedelic trip. There is catharsis, hallucinations, out-of-body experiences, rebirth, and ecstasy. Sam's adventure, his journey to the end of himself and beyond, is more than convincing." -Télérama magazine

About the Author

Doug Mayer is an author, journalist, and founder of the trail running tour company, Run the Alps. He is a past producer for NPR, (National Public Radio). Based in Chamonix, France, he writes for a number of outdoors magazines and journals, including Outside. The Last of the Giants is his fifth title with Helvetiq and his first graphic novel. William Windrestin is an award-winning French filmmaker and illustrator.