[amazon_link id=”193771523X” target=”_blank” ]Eric’s Big Day[/amazon_link] by Rod Waters is the story of “a bicycle race unlike any other”.   Simply and beautifully illustrated, this children’s book tells the story of Eric rushing to meet his friend Emily to watch the end of the Bike Race in her town.  Along the way, he encounters cyclists having troubles, and Eric has packed just the right thing to get the racers back on the road.  He is concerned that his friend is waiting, and he will be late, so he rushes ahead of each cyclist saying, “Follow me!”  

Unbeknownst to Eric, he wins the bicycle race!  He is presented with a large bouquet of flowers, but he doesn’t stay to bask in the glory of his victory.  He is more concerned with his awaiting friend, whom he gifts the large bouquet since the one he was bringing her has lost its petals along the way.

It’s a big day for Eric, the day of the bike race. His knapsack packed, Eric rides to Emily’s for a picnic near the finish. But what’s that splashing in the river? A very wet bike racer! Who’s that sobbing by the street sign? A lost rider!

Eric pauses to aid wayward bike racers, with useful items from his knapsack, but will he be late to see the finish? The cheers of a crowd surprise Eric, but where oh where is Emily?

Eric’s Big Day is a colorful adventure on wheels for children 4-8, full of fun and authentic cycling flavor. You and your kids will enjoy this lighthearted tale of a boy who helps others and finds himself a winner, all while simply meeting a friend for a picnic.

This book is published by Velo Press, a company focused on books for endurance sports like cycling.  I am pleased they have a children’s division, and I am sure this book is likely to inspire young cyclists.

I also like how Eric stops to help the cyclists on the way even though he is in a hurry.  Often when we are busy, we are less likely to pause and help someone in need.  Eric also keeps ever present in his mind that his friend is waiting.  He does not want to worry or disappoint her.  Eric has a kind heart.

Unfortunately, I could not find any information about the materials used in this book to vouch for its eco-friendliness.  I think all books should be made from recycled content.

That being said, this truly is a sweet book.

 

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Disclosure: The products described above were sent to us as free samples. Prior assurances as to the nature of the reviews, whether positive or negative, were not given. No financial payments were accepted in exchange for the reviews. The reviews reflect our honest, authentic opinions.