Dandelion Growing Wild is a remarkable true story of resilience, perseverance and the power of hope. It's a look into a large, loving, dysfunctional and oddly religious family thrust into horrific tragedy. The memoir captures the essence of innocence and the disturbing truth of poverty, mental illness, disappointment and death... a powerful, humorous and uplifting story of a little girl who rose from those challenges to compete in the toughest competitions in the world, becoming a world-class athlete and a marathon champion. Kim Jones' autobiography will inspire the millions of Americans who put on their running shoes every day. However, you don't have to be a runner to cheer for her. Dandelion Growing Wild chronicles her dual careers as one of the top American marathoners in history and - most important of all - as a mother, trying to chart a smoother course for her daughters. "Stunning! This is no ordinary running story... it's a record of tremendous family struggle and personal triumph. A beautiful story of resilience and perseverance... a journey through a world class career as a marathoner. A hell of a book!" - Bill Rodgers. 4-time winner of the Boston and New York City Marathons "Dandelion Growing Wild by elite marathoner Kim Jones is fascinating, inspiring, uplifting and tragic. A truly remarkable story as fast paced as one of her marathons!" - George Hirsch. Former Worldwide Publisher, Runner's World; Chairman of the New York Road Runners "Beautifully written, Kim's story has given a new definition to the word perseverance... in both life and sport. Inspirational with every turn of the page." - Joan Benoit Samuelson. 1984 Gold Medal, Olympic Marathon "Kim Jones emerged from an impoverished, challenging childhood to become the best marathoner in America. Her story is nothing short of incredible, and it ought to give runners of all abilities a boost in pursuing their own dreams." - Don Kardong. Author; 1976 Olympic Marathoner