Overview

The view from the sometimes uncomfortable seat of a bicycle is unique. It offers intimate insight into the colorful people cyclists encounter, the geography surrounding us, the roads we travel on, and the mechanism on which we move. All are seen at the deliberate speed that can be experienced only on a bicycle. This story is not just about the rides but also the transformation of a shy, non-athletic kid. In the summer of 1978, John Frederick set out from his insulated life in Central Pennsylvania upon a journey that would dramatically change his life. A cross-country bicycling trek after college graduation became his rite of passage, but the things that led up to that trip make for a series of fascinating stories unto themselves. In this compelling travel memoir, Frederick imparts his lifelong adventure with humor and sharp insight. Saddle up for a lively odyssey stretching across the vivid landscapes of America.

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9781947309173

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What person hasn't studied a map, before, during, or after a trip? Where am I? Where am I going? Writing about his experiences from forty years ago, John Frederick's cycling sojourn is chock full of references to places across the U.S., from the Appalachians to the Rockies. His vivid descriptions bring to life not only his cross-country journey, but slices of life from post-World War II America, beginning on a numbered street in an Altoona neighborhood. It's an entertaining read. I encourage you to make the journey. -- Robert P. Brooks, Professor of Geography and Ecology, Penn State University

Author Information

John Frederick is an honors graduate of Penn State University's Geography program, where he also began his cycling career on the university's championship road race team. Following a cross-country trek after college graduation, he embarked on a racing career which produced an additional set of adventurous stories. He discovered that he could use his bicycle to challenge himself while experiencing the natural environment at the same time. His interest in physical geography would initially take him into the classroom as a high school Earth and Environmental Science teacher. Ultimately, he had the opportunity to return to one of his other passions, writing, when he began working with environmental professionals and organizations. In addition to that writing and editing, he authors a popular newspaper column on science and environmental topics, entitled Earth Matters. The father of two sons, he lives with his wife, Kathy, near Altoona, Pennsylvania.

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