Jim Denison invites us to hear these remarkable runners tell their side of their first four minute mile. He captures their spirit, philosophies and, occasionally, ego, brilliantly.

Some broke four minutes by accident, others to humble an opponent. Some were spiritual about it, others scientific.

Wow. Not at all what I assumed about four minute milers. As I am not a member of that elite group, I learned they're just like regular people. Just, uh, faster. I feel as if I know these men, despite their accomplishments as runners.

I expect my daughters will read it, embrace it, and chase the dream of the sub-four minute mile.