I had planned on writing a review with all four of the bicycle books I liked from a recent article I found in one review. I did not think I could write enough for each book to have justice done for it. But with The Bicycle: How an Act of Kindness Changed a Young Refugee’s Life, I just got all excited over it. And even if that review (or any of the others here) does not make sense, just know READ THE DARN (only I’m not saying darn) BOOK! You won’t regret it.
Like you won’t regret reading this book, A Big Day for Bike by Emily Jenkins and illustrated by Brian Karas. Though you will have to wait until mid-June 2024 to find a finished copy, unless you are like me and find an online reader copy. Bike, in A Big Day for Bike, is having their first day on the job. They are going to be waiting for a rider and then off they will go, taking the riders to their destinations. Bike is part of a system in this city where you can “order a bike” on your phone/an app and then pick it up at a designated location where the bikes are locked, and you can go riding. I liked the fact that the narrator says that this option is not inexpensive, but does not dwell on that. (This however, did start the questions I have about the service). Of course, Bike is nervous and worried they won’t do well. Of course, an old pro says they will be fine. And soon their first customer is there. We get the ins and outs of each passenger’s adventure. One was going to work, one the park, another had her big, but young dog who was too tired to walk anymore.
Each one of the rides and the adventures they had is cutely illustrated by Karas. Their signature cartoon style comes out, but also I had to read the name again, as it was not exactly their style. Which was nice as I felt their usual style, while fun, would not have worked as well. This three centimeters step up into almost serious, but never (thankfully) getting there is perfect. Though I must admit, Bikes having eyes can be a bit off setting at times.
Everything about the book is colorful, detailed in a fun manner and cute (blue hair, happy little kids, funny dogs). Now, it might not become a classic, but it could become a favorite in your home. The extras allow this book to go for most ages (toddlers can enjoy the illustrations, parents can use the tips and facts to help their child) and ages five to 8 can be read-to or read solo (or with some help).