The Hardest, Longest Race by Eric Moskowitz

 

I'm a fan of Erik Larson and his historical nonfiction books. When I read about this book, The Hardest, Longest Race, it sounded like a project Larson might tackle--a 1909 ocean-to-ocean automobile race. Although Eric Moskowitz was unknown to me, I was interested in the premise and decided to give this book a try; I'm glad I did. Moskowitz does an excellent job of recounting the race and writes it in such an engaging manner that I was hooked.

In 1909, with interest in automobiles burgeoning, millionaire Robert Guggenheim rallied support for a New York-to-Seattle automobile race to showcase the current crop of automobiles. Guggenheim envisioned an international race with numerous entries, and even though there were over 250 automobile manufacturers in the US alone, only five cars entered the race, and two of those were Fords. 

In the era before our highway system, when there were no road signs, no maps, and very poor roads, completing this race would have been a challenge. While trying to cross prairies, rivers, lakes, and mountain ranges, the competitors were bound by rules governing vehicle maintenance but not by rules governing gamesmanship. Henry Ford was determined that his two Model Ts would finish first and second. Utilizing his network of dealerships, he attempted to give his cars every advantage and put roadblocks in competitors' way when necessary. 

Moskowitz brings to life the people and the almost impossible conditions the competitors faced. It also showcases Henry Ford's ambitions and the extent to which he would go to achieve his goals. It is a compelling, if cautionary, story, full of suspense. I liked the conversational writing style and the extensive background material that highlights both the history of the cars and the people associated with them. It is an engrossing read from ocean to ocean. 

4.5/5 stars.

Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press, for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. The publication date is June 2, 2026.

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