If you’re someone who loves sports stories, Olympic legends, and those unbelievable human moments that make history, then you’ve probably thought about diving into a few great Olympic-themed books this year. With Paris 2024 behind us and excitement already building for the next games, it feels like the perfect time to explore some of the best reads about Olympic spirit and history.Recently, I came across a forum discussion started by a user named CarolW, who was searching for the best Olympic record books to read in 2025. After scrolling through blogs like The New York Times, Book Riot, and Goodreads, two titles kept coming up again and again each promising something unique:
- Total Olympics: Every Obscure, Hilarious, Dramatic, Inspiring Tale Ever Told
- 100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Scenic Trails
At first glance, they both sound great, but if you’re wondering which one’s more engaging, more fact-based, and genuinely worth your time (and money), let’s take a closer look.
1. Total Olympics: Every Obscure, Hilarious, Dramatic, Inspiring Tale Ever Told
If you’re the kind of reader who loves quirky trivia, unbelievable sports stories, and a touch of humor, Total Olympics by David Goldblatt might be exactly what you’re looking for. This book isn’t your usual boring sports record list — it’s more like a wild behind-the-scenes tour through decades of Olympic chaos, glory, and pure human weirdness.
Goldblatt has a talent for digging up stories you’ve never heard before from marathon runners who got lost mid-race, to athletes who became heroes in the most unexpected ways. He doesn’t just stick to numbers and medals — he tells the human side of each event. You’ll find stories that are both inspiring and hilarious, and sometimes even emotional.
One thing readers seem to love (based on Goodreads and NYT reviews) is how readable this book is. You don’t have to be a sports fanatic to enjoy it. It’s more like sitting around a campfire listening to unbelievable Olympic legends told by your smartest friend.
The tone is easygoing, funny, and filled with facts that make you go, “Wait, that actually happened?” From politics to fashion to pure athletic achievement Total Olympics captures it all.
Why you’ll love it:
- Packed with funny and surprising facts
- Perfect balance of history and humor
- Great for casual readers or hardcore Olympic fans
- Makes a great gift for anyone into sports or world culture
If you’ve ever wanted to feel the Olympic energy without watching endless replays, this is the book that brings it to life.
2. 100 Hikes of a Lifetime: The World’s Ultimate Scenic Trails
Now, this one might seem a bit off-topic at first it’s not purely about the Olympics, but stay with me. 100 Hikes of a Lifetime by National Geographic is one of those books that combines breathtaking photography, human endurance, and exploration which are, in many ways, the essence of the Olympic spirit itself.
Each hike in this collection feels like an adventure story, showing how humans push their limits against nature’s toughest challenges. From rugged mountain trails to quiet coastal paths, it’s filled with stunning visuals and inspiring tales of people who tested themselves — physically and mentally.
If you love the inspirational aspect of the Olympics — the courage, discipline, and beauty of human effort — this book will absolutely speak to you. It’s like a visual journey through the world’s “training grounds” for greatness.
Reviewers on Book Riot and Amazon often mention how beautifully this book is put together high-quality paper, sharp images, and storytelling that makes you want to pack your bag and start walking. It’s not just a coffee-table book; it’s a reminder that exploration and determination go hand in hand.
Why you’ll love it:
- Stunning National Geographic photography
- Motivating and peaceful at the same time
- Perfect for readers who love nature and adventure
- Gives Olympic-level inspiration from real-world journeys
If Total Olympics captures the competitive side of human greatness, 100 Hikes of a Lifetime celebrates the enduring spirit behind it.
Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Read First?
It really depends on what you want from your reading experience.
If you’re after fun stories, humor, and deep Olympic knowledge, then Total Olympics is the clear winner. You’ll laugh, learn, and feel connected to decades of unforgettable moments.
But if you prefer peaceful reflection, scenic journeys, and inspiration from human endurance, then 100 Hikes of a Lifetime might be more your style. It’s less about medals and more about the soul of the journey — something that every Olympian can relate to.
Honestly, both are worth having. One fires up your excitement for the next games, and the other makes you appreciate the world that hosts them.
Where to Get Them
📘 Check Price: Total Olympics on Amazon
🌍 Check Price: 100 Hikes of a Lifetime on Amazon
