The best books to pack for your off-season holiday (Part 2)
Whether you’re a passionate skier or just a fan of great sports stories, these books offer motivation, insight, and entertainment.
Which books will you be reading first?
Brothers in Arms – Tarjei and Johannes Thingnes Bø
Biathlon, Brotherhood, and Bragging Rights – Two brothers, both raised in a family of five siblings, find themselves among the world’s elite biathlon competitors. What happens when the younger sibling outshines the older one? This is the captivating story of Tarjei and Johannes Thingnes Bø, following their journey to the highest level of biathlon. In this book, they reflect on their victories, struggles, and the experiences that forged them into world-class athletes. It explores the unique dynamics of sibling rivalry and the drive to push each other beyond limits.
Wenn ich was mach, mach ich’s gscheid (If I Do Something, I Do It Right) – Laura Dahlmeier
A book about her challenges, the feeling of freedom in the mountains, and the importance to follow your own path. The German biathlete, Olympic champion, and multiple-time world champion shares her journey and insights into her sport and personal philosophy. This book provides a look at the mindset of a champion and what it takes to reach the pinnacle of biathlon.
Selina Gasparin – Self-Titled Biography
Selina Gasparin, Swiss biathlete and silver medallist at the Sochi 2014 Olympics, details her journey as an athlete who constantly pushed the limits. She provides personal insights into her struggles, victories, and life as both an athlete and a mother. Her story is one of perseverance, joy, and the inner fire that drives athletes to succeed.
Zielsicher. Mein langer Lauf an die Biathlon-Spitze (With Precision. My Long Run to the Top of Biathlon) – Denise Herrmann
Denise Herrmann is the first German athlete to win Olympic medals in two winter sports—cross-country skiing and biathlon. She tells the story of her transformation into a biathlon star, giving exclusive insights into her sport and career challenges. For fans of multi-sport athletes and dramatic career shifts, this book is must-read.

Avoin (Candid) – Krista Pärmäkoski
Krista Pärmäkoski, one of Finland’s most successful skiers, shares her personal story of rising to the top. She discusses the sacrifices, setbacks, and victories that shaped her career, as well as her plan to transition to life beyond competition. A deeply personal and open account, this book sheds light on the emotional highs and lows of elite skiing.
Från OS-storm till VM-guld (From Olympic Storm to World Championship Gold) – Ebba Andersson
Swedish cross-country skier Ebba Andersson recounts her heartbreaking loss of an Olympic medal in 2022 and how it became a defining moment in her career. This book explores resilience, learning from setbacks, and the path to World Championship gold. It’s a compelling story of how an athlete turns failure into fuel for future success.
Where to Find These Books
Some of these books are available in multiple languages, while others are currently only published in their native tongues. For those interested in translations, it’s worth checking bookstores, online retailers, or even reaching out to publishers to see if English editions are in the works.
Read More: Essential reads for cross-country skiers and biathletes this spring