Description
Description
"Vigorous and heartfelt" - KIRKUS REVIEWS. An inspiring story of how the ordinary bike came to represent freedom for women and girls.
In the 1880s, a bike was just a bike--unless you were a girl. Then it was considered dangerous, unladylike, even scandalous. But some dared to ride anyway. Pedal by pedal, they defied expectations. Riding a bike became a revolutionary act offering independence, challenging fashion norms and moving women one step closer to the right to vote.
This lyrical celebration honors the fearless women who refused to stay in their lane and spotlights modern-day heroes like Ayesha McGowan and Dr. Lynnea C. Salvo. Complete with historical footnotes, A Bike Is Not Just A Bike celebrates girls riding everywhere and moves us all toward freedom, equity, and joy.
About the Author
About the Author
Brenna Jeanneret is a podcaster and author of The Law of Birthdays and Dudes of Disposal. She lives with her husband, son, and two furballs in Northern Colorado. When she's not writing, you can find her rock climbing, bike riding or any number of other unladylike hobbies.
Michelle Pereira is a freelance illustrator and artist. Colorful palettes, graphic shapes and cheery characters are features of her work, which she illustrates from her home studio in Melbourne. She has worked with a range of clients such as Hardie Grant Publishing, Penguin UK, Marie Claire and The Washington Post and some of her children's picture books include The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name and Stay For Dinner.
Critical Reviews
Critical Reviews
"Bicycles are so much more than playthings for young children - they are vehicles of empowerment. To paraphrase Susan B. Anthony, they are metal steeds of independence and freedom for all, but especially for women, as readers of NOT JUST A BIKE will discover. Beautifully inclusive illustrations depict girls and women using bikes, and the engaging lyrical text both entertains and educates. Back matter includes references and a page about Annie Londonderry that could spark further discussion in a classroom."
--Vivian Kirkfield, educator, speaker, and author of PEDAL, BALANCE, STEER: Annie Londonderry, the First Woman to Cycle Around the World?"An inspiring, informative look at how the bicycle became a vehicle for women's empowerment. The perfect motivational read-aloud to show children just how far we've come, and how far they can go!"
"This book tells the story of brave women who dared to venture beyond fences and front doors, into freedom, speed, and the wide open world. The women who showed the world that girls can ride just as far and as fast as anyone."
--Juliana Buhring, ultra-endurance cyclist and first woman to circumnavigate the globe by bike"A Bike Is Not Just a Bike is an absolute gem! Jeanneret has crafted something inspiring, powerful, and layered with heart, all while including thoughtfully curated fact boxes. Pereira does an amazing job of blending the present and the past, bringing depth to each spread. Each time I read it I discover something new."
--Jessica Stremer, award-winning author of Great Carrier Reef and Fire Escape"A bike means freedom. Freedom to go where you want. Freedom to explore. And freedom to be yourself. A bike never judges you. A Bike Is Not Just a Bike beautifully explores these themes that have been an important part of my relationship to my many bikes."
--DR. VERONICA IVY, Two-Time Masters Track Cycling World Champion"I love how A Bike Is Not Just A Bike gives a new generation of girls access to the immense power and freedom that comes with riding bikes, and the obstacles women have faced over the years to claim that power and freedom for themselves."
--AYESHA MCGOWAN, first African American professional road cyclist"A Bike is Not Just a Bike is a powerful celebration of independence and possibility. Brenna Jeanneret's writing shines with warmth and confidence, making every page inspiring. The feminist angle feels fresh and empowering without being heavy-handed. A beautifully written book that encourages girls to dream big and ride free!"
--LYDIA LUKIDIS, award-winning author of Deep, Deep Down"Vigorous and heartfelt" - KIRKUS REVIEWS
--Kirkus Reviews
Publishing Information
Publishing Information

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