Hey, cycling enthusiasts and literary wanderers! As we coast through another year, I’m thrilled to share with you all an update on the thought-provoking and heart-expanding reads that have colored my journey with bikes and books. Many of these books were part of the Cyclista Zine book club, while others were personal picks. Each one has opened my eyes to new ideas about inclusivity and accessibility, crucial for shaping how we engage with and advocate within our own communities. From exploring the nitty-gritty off feminist urban planning to embarking on fantasy-filled cycling adventures, each book has been a pedal stroke towards deeper understanding and broader perspectives. Let’s take a ride through our favorite cycling reads of the year!
🚴‍♀️ “Queering Urbanism: Insurgent Spaces in the Fight for Justice” by Stathis Yeros
“Queering Urbanism: Insurgent Spaces in the Fight for Justice” by Stathis Yeros offers a profound exploration of how queer theory and activism can radically reshape urban planning and architecture to create spaces that are not only inclusive but also reflective of diverse sexual and gender identities. This book rigorously examines the ways in which traditional city planning has marginalized queer communities and suggests innovative ways to reimagine public spaces that foster true inclusivity and justice. Yeros combines theoretical insights with practical examples from around the world, showing how insurgent queer spaces challenge the status quo and pave the way for new forms of urban expression and social justice. This compelling read invites urbanists, activists, and all citizens to consider the transformative potential of queering spaces in cities everywhere, advocating for a future where urban environments celebrate and accommodate all identities. Find it here on Bookshop.org.
🌍 “On Bicycles: 50 Ways the New Bike Culture Can Change Your Life” edited by Amy Walker
“On Bicycles: 50 Ways the New Bike Culture Can Change Your Life,” edited by Amy Walker, is a comprehensive and inspiring anthology that collects the insights and experiences of fifty visionary thinkers and cyclists. Each essay delves into how cycling can revolutionize not only individual lives through improved health and well-being but also urban spaces by promoting more sustainable and humane modes of transportation. The contributors explore a wide range of topics, from the personal joys of bike commuting to the significant societal impacts of urban bike networks, providing practical advice alongside provocative thoughts on how bicycles can help address environmental issues, urban congestion, and social inequality. This book is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to understand the broad scope of cycling’s potential and seeking inspiration to integrate more cycling into their daily lives and communities. Available at Microcosm Publishing.
đź’µ “Bikequity: Money, Class, & Bicycling” by Elly Blue
In “Bikequity: Money, Class, & Bicycling,” Elly Blue compellingly addresses the vital intersection of economics and cycling, exploring how factors like socioeconomic status, financial accessibility, and community infrastructure profoundly influence who gets to participate in cycling cultures. Through thoughtful analysis and diverse perspectives, Blue challenges readers to consider the systemic barriers that exist within the cycling community and advocates for a more equitable approach that enables all people, regardless of their economic background, to enjoy and benefit from bicycling. This book is essential reading for anyone who is passionate about advancing social equity through the lens of cycling advocacy. Available at Microcosm Publishing or Amazon.
🌆 “Feminist City: Claiming Space in a Man-Made World” by Leslie Kern
“Feminist City: Claiming Space in a Man-Made World” by Leslie Kern is a visionary work that dissects the fabric of urban spaces through a feminist lens, urging us to consider how cities might be reimagined to better support the lives and experiences of women, non-binary individuals, and other marginalized groups. The book is a clarion call for rethinking and restructuring urban environments to eliminate barriers and make cities more accessible and equitable for everyone. It challenges readers to envision a world where the urban landscape fosters community, safety, and inclusivity across all dimensions of gender and identity. “Feminist City” is not only a critique of the current state of cities but also a robust roadmap towards creating spaces that truly cater to the diverse needs of all its inhabitants, making it a must-read for urban planners, feminists, and activists alike. You can find this transformative book at Verso Books or Amazon
🛣️ “Inclusive Transportation: Planning Mobility for All” by Veronica O. Davis
In ‘Inclusive Transportation: Planning Mobility for All,’ Veronica O. Davis expertly crafts a comprehensive guide that outlines the essential strategies and principles necessary for designing transportation systems that truly cater to the diverse needs of all community members. Through detailed case studies, insightful analyses, and practical advice, Davis advocates for a transformative approach to urban planning that prioritizes accessibility, inclusivity, and equity, ensuring that transportation networks support and enhance the mobility of every individual, regardless of their physical abilities, economic background, or geographic location. Available from Island Press.
đź“š “The Bicyclist’s Guide to the Galaxy: Feminist, Fantastical Tales of Books and Bikes” by Ellie Blue and contributors
“The Bicyclist’s Guide to the Galaxy” offers a rare and enchanting blend of feminist science fiction and cycling. This collection of short stories by Ellie Blue and various contributors transports readers into worlds where bicycles are more than mere transportation; they are catalysts for empowerment, magical adventures, and social change. Each story unfolds with a fresh take on what it means to navigate different universes on two wheels, exploring themes of personal freedom, environmental stewardship, and the transformative power of community. The narratives are inventive and diverse, ranging from dystopian societies to whimsical planets where bicycles bring to life the deepest desires of their riders. The tales are imbued with a sense of hope and rebellion, echoing the feminist ideals that challenge the status quo and reimagine what our societies could become. Grab a copy at Microcosm Publishing.
🏖️ “A Shore Thing” by Joanna Lowell
Joanna Lowell’s “A Shore Thing” captivates with its rich narrative set in Victorian England, featuring Kit Griffith, a trans man embracing his true identity in the picturesque Cornish countryside. The novel intertwines romance with a spirited defiance of societal norms, as Kit and Muriel Pendrake, a bold botanist, navigate their burgeoning relationship amidst challenges of acceptance and self-discovery. Their joint venture—a daring bicycle race—symbolizes their pursuit of freedom and equality, framing their love story within the broader context of Victorian societal constraints. Lowell’s prose is vivid and evocative, adeptly capturing the scenic beauty of Cornwall while delving deep into the emotional and societal intricacies faced by her characters. For more details or to purchase the book, check out at my Bookshop.
🍳 “Red Sauce Brown Sauce: A Bike Ride Around Britain and a Quest for the Secret of Breakfast” by Felicity Cloak
In “Red Sauce Brown Sauce,” Felicity Cloak embarks on a uniquely British adventure, cycling across the landscapes of Britain in search of the ultimate breakfast experience. This isn’t just a food book; it’s a travelogue that captures the heart of British cycling routes and the culinary delights that dot them. Each chapter serves up rich descriptions of local fare, from the traditional full English to regional specialties that promise to delight the palate. Felicity’s narrative is engaging and light-hearted, filled with the kind of quirky anecdotes and personal reflections that make you feel like you’re riding alongside her. Her exploration is as much about the people she meets and the stories they share as it is about the meals they eat. If you liked her book “One More Croissant For The Road”, this delightful read will remind you of the joy of traveling slowly and savoring every moment. Find it at Bookshop.
My literary journey this year has been enriching and eye-opening. These books have provided me with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, pushing me to think critically about our role as cyclists in a changing world. I hope they inspire you as much as they have inspired me.
Here’s to more miles and more pages turned. Grab your helmet, pick a book, and let’s ride into another year of adventure and discovery together.
Happy reading and riding!