THE YOUNG CYCLIST'S COMPANION

A comprehensive guide geared to the young cyclist.

With its perky design and friendly tone, this manual provides readers with pretty much all the information they need to be confident and competent cyclists. The copious cartoon illustrations are mostly inclusive—cyclists of various ethnicities and skin color are depicted, though none are visibly disabled—while their lighthearted quality keeps the tone unintimidating. The four main chapters (“The Right Bike for You”; “Maintaining Your Bike”; “Cycling Technique”; and “Stepping It Up a Gear”) are laid out in easily understood pockets of information that include the anatomy of a bike, how to choose a bike for your needs, how to take care of it, how to ride safely and efficiently, and riding with a club. The information, with its practical delivery and fun, confident approach, obviously comes from direct experience. Kids will learn how to fix a flat, keep their bike in good shape, brake properly, and cycling safely on roadways, among many others, and the whole is sprinkled with quirky quotes from professional cyclists. The book is directed toward both boys and girls (and it does mention that competitive road cycling is male-centric, with the men’s teams getting more attention and money—a commendable aside). While the measurements in this U.K. import are usually given in metric and some spelling is British, this shouldn’t make any appreciable difference to American readers. The British hand signaling, however, differs from U.S. custom. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A clear, fun, accessible, accurate, and encouraging guide for kids who love to bike.