When I first sat down to read this book about a ride across the country, I did so with a bit of doubt as to how entertaining it could be. I was pleasantly surprised, as the pages and miles went by and I found I was actually having FUN! I've never been a bicycle enthusiast, but this book makes me want to become one! The great interactions with the people along the way are interesting and amusing! I love the historical information that Phil gives along the route as well. When I got to the end of the book, I could imagine the bittersweet emotions that must have marked the end of the trip! A great read! I literally laughed out loud a time or two. You'll really feel like you are riding along with Phil and Merj - except maybe without the pre-sweat and sweat!
America at 12 miles per hour
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
Reading Phil Shrout's book, "America at 12 miles per hour" was like traveling across the country on my bicycle but in the comfort of an easy chair. Feeling the anxieties, discomforts and exhilarations of a cross country bicycle trip, learning about the differences and similarities of people on the west coast, across the north and midwest, and through the south, catching a glimpse of the compromises that make a marriage work, were lessons in geography, culture, and psychology. Add to this a sense of humor and you have many hours of enjoyable reading.
A Most Entertaining, Interesting, and Inspring Book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
Having traveled by automobile much of the route taken by Phil and Merj Shrout on their bicycle trip across America, we were amazed at how much we had missed as to the `real' people of the United States. The numerous stories and colorful characters painted in "America at Twelve Miles an Hour" by the author really bring their trip to life for all readers, whether well traveled or not. If not, we can only imagine that reading this book will spur many to giving serious consideration to embarking on such a trip themselves. We highly recommend this book to all, particularly those who enjoy living vicariously, which is easily attained given Phil's highly entertaining writing style, or those who are serious or aspiring bicyclists. No, doubt, though, that this book can serve as a tremendous guide book for anyone interested in traveling their scenic and interesting route, whether by bicycle, motorcycle, automobile or RV.
Great Read!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
This book was such an easy and fun read! I felt like I was right there with Phil and Merj on their journey. Between the characters, the mishaps, and the wonderful descriptions, this was better than fiction! I laughed the whole way through. I highly recommend this book to not only bike enthusiasts, but life enthusiasts. It sure inspired me to get off the couch :)
A Great Read!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
What a great book! I laughed out loud at times and loved to read about the history of the places visited by Phil and Merj.
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