November 2025 Reader & Runner of the Month: Fiona Ian
by Allison Yates
Each month, Read & Run Chicago highlights a different volunteer or reader & runner! This month, we’re celebrating Fiona Ian. Read the interview to learn more about her!
What part of the city do you call home?
I currently live in the western suburbs, but I used to live in University Village, Rogers Park, and Edgewater!
Where is your favorite place to run in the city?
I really enjoy running along the Lakefront Trail up to Loyola Beach area in Rogers Park, and from 18th Street in Pilsen to Taylor Street in Little Italy.
What’s your favorite book or preferred genre?
I really enjoy contemporary fiction, memoirs, and social sciences. One of my recent favorite reads is Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue.
Which is your favorite local bookstore or favorite branch of the Chicago Public Library?
I love Pilsen Community Books! And my favorite library branch is Chinatown.
What’s something readers & runners can ask you more about next time they see you?
I’m always up for an adventure—whether it’s trying new restaurants, exploring local shops, or catching live shows. Recently, I had an amazing meal at the new Southeast Asian spot Crying Tiger (highly recommend!), picked up some groceries at 88 Marketplace, and even served on “jury duty” — an immersive live theatre experience at the Museum of Contemporary Art. It was so good, I’m going back for another trial next month! Any other spots I should add to my list?
When will we see you next?
I'll be at the Book Club Run of Refugee High with Elly Fishman in Rogers Park on November 22!