Daring BMXers

Children's Literature - David Adams

The world record for giant quarterpipe is 27 feet. Such is the exhilarating world of BMX presented in Daring BMXers. BMX is short for bicycle motocross. This thrilling presentation captures the basics of the sport, its history, athletes, and top tricks, all done with clear cut text and colorful photos. The section called BMX 101 and the glossary provide good basics for the uninitiated. The daring sibling of BMX motocross is BMX freestyle. Motocross has already achieved Olympic status and freestyle is expected to follow at the London games in 2012. One of the most exciting things about freestyle is to see these performers in action, something that is presented in the videos that are linked on the publisher's website. The author's credentials are conspicuously absent, but he does a good job of engaging young daredevils and others with a sport that is gaining respect each decade. This book is one of six in the series called "X-moves." Includes glossary, suggested reading, bibliography, and index. Recommended for public libraries and school libraries. Reviewer: David Adams

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5–Readers may not have tried, or even witnessed, many of these sports in person. Nonetheless, they will welcome these overviews that feature short sentences coupled with colorful action photographs, and that all include at least one famous female competitor. History, basics, and important competitions are covered in a spread each, with text on one page and a full-page photograph on the other (many photos show superstars wearing the recommended helmets and other safety gear). Interesting fact boxes further explain concepts from the narratives. Closing “101” sections detail the equipment necessary. Rally Car Dudes, the most unusual offering, disappointingly does not fully describe what the sport is until the third chapter. Select individual titles as needed.