Hal Higdon, author of more than 30 books on running and senior writer for Runner"s World magazine, is adept at answering running-related questions; he also pens the magazine"s on-line "Ask the Expert" column. Therefore, it"s only natural that Smart Running is assembled in a Q & A format. Chapters, ranging from "Technique" to "Marathon Training" to "Motivation," are followed by a series of relevant questions and answers. For instance, in the "Racing" chapter, topics include "Race Taper," "Starting-Line Jitters," "Drinking Technique," and "Downtime After a Race." Under "Last Meals," a reader queries: "What is a good choice of food the night before a race and right before the race?" Higdon"s reply is thorough, based on race distance, time of race, and experience. He also suggests the use of nutritional alternatives, such as sports drinks and energy bars, and throws in this long-standing runner"s joke: "Your prerace meal should taste good going down, taste good coming up, and look good on the sidewalk." Comprehensive and light-hearted, Higdon knows running. --Rob McDonald