May 2026 Reader & Runner of the Month: Emma
by Allison Yates
Emma, Read & Run Chicago’s May Reader & Runner of the Month.
Each month, Read & Run Chicago highlights a different volunteer or reader & runner! This month, we’re celebrating Emma. Read the interview to learn more about her!
What part of the city do you call home?
Ukrainian Village
Where is your favorite place to run in the city?
Lakefront Trail or the Bloomingdale Trail at the 606.
What’s your favorite book or preferred genre?
I typically rotate between fiction and nonfiction. I’m open to most genres (aside from horror/ crime / thrillers), especially if it’s about a current hyper-fixation of mine or a contemporary recommendation from others! Like most readers, I love when you can get lost in the story but also be learning about people, places, and cultures along the way!
Which is your favorite local bookstore or favorite branch of the Chicago Public Library?
I loved Volumes Bookstore (which sadly recently closed) but am also a fan of Passages Wine and Books and the Bucktown-Wicker Park branch of the Chicago Public Library.
What’s something readers & runners can ask you more about next time they see you?
I’m currently really into yoga, composting, and taking Spanish classes.