Birth of the Bicycle: A Bumpy History of the Bicycle in America 1819–1900

Praise

Nelson recounts the history of the bicycle, beginning with the 1817 invention of the velocipede, an entirely wooden contraption with no pedals or brakes. . . . Bruno’s digitally enhanced pencil illustrations make use of bold, bright colors; attention to fine details (particularly in his depictions of period costumes and the early two-wheelers); and scenes that convey both motion and emotion.
—Booklist

The bouncy narrative is rich in specific references to inventors and early mechanisms. In vividly evocative galleries, races, and crowded street scenes, Bruno provides precisely detailed images of huge-wheeled penny farthings and other antique models. . . Wheels out a chapter in the history of technology that merits greater recognition.
—Kirkus Reviews

Polished illustrations by Italian artist Bruno draw immediate attention in this bicycle history. . . . The book, like the bicycle, moves briskly along, tracing a path from luxury item to mode of transportation for the masses.
—Publishers Weekly

A fascinating nonfiction picture book about the history of bicycles. . . . Nelson’s simple, poetic lines somehow pack so much information into them, and Bruno’s detailed illustrations are nostalgic and gorgeous.
—Book Riot

This lively book begins with wooden velocipedes of the 1800s and concludes with the sleek machines that today have their own dedicated lanes in some cities. . . . Illustrations are wonderful.
—Pioneer Press