Freewheeling: Essays on Cycling, by Various Authors

Twelve authors tackle the subject of cycling, incorporating a range of different perspectives. 

I am usually suspicious of these novelty essay collections, but being an avid cyclist I thought I would give the book a go. Happily, this collection is a delight.

Aniefiok Ekpoudom discusses Black activism through protest rides; John McGregor cryptically spins a tale about finding the hospital his mother is undergoing a procedure at; Annie Lord hires a Lime Bike and blissfully rides home safely after a party; Mina Holland describes the joys of a stationary exercise bike, with references to her hamster’s spinning wheel. Other essays concentrate on family dramas, personal growth and health scares, all seen through the prism of cycling.

Each essay is an engaging autobiographical piece, refreshingly open and honest. The recurring theme is how the act of cycling can heal body, mind and soul. Cycling takes us out of worrying about the future and ruminating on the past, the bumpy saddle keeping the rider focused on the present. It’s a form of mindfulness.

Riders and non-riders alike will find much to console and comfort in these pages.

Freewheeling: Essays on Cycling, by Various Authors. Published by Daunt Books. ISBN: 9781917092067

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