The Wind in My Wheels: Travel Tales from the Saddle [Paperback]

Josie Dew (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1, 1993

As a young girl, Josie Dew developed an overpowering urge to travel. She also, rather inconveniently, developed a lifelong aversion to cars. Along came her first bicycle, and she has never looked back. Four continents, 36 countries, and 80,000 miles worth of astounding adventures, eccentric characters, varied cultures and ever-enduring optimism are the result of her travels. From Saharan locust invasions to tree-climbing goats, and a customs official who wouldn't let her leave India because "You are making me a very fine wife," her encounters are described with honesty, wit, and perception.

Editorial Reviews

Review

'Josie Dew needs little introduction...her writing is chattery and matter of fact' - CYCLING PLUS

About the Author

Josie has cycled 280,000 miles across 43 countries, some by accident. The survivor of 5 continents, several wonky knees and a handful of worn-out bottom brackets, she is still firmly fixed in the saddle. WIND IN MY WHEELS was shortlisted for the 1992 Travel Writer of the Year Award.

Product Details

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group (June 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0751502499
• ISBN-13: 978-0751502497
• Product Dimensions: 1.2 x 4.2 x 7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 9.9 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #820,116 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best Travel Book I've Read, March 25, 2003

By 

Sw Carter "condover" (UK) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Wind in My Wheels: Travel Tales from the Saddle (Paperback)

...and I have read a lot. Since I've pretty much cycled around this planet I reckon that this is a qualified recommendation. Her text is sprinkled with some evocative poetic descriptions. One that has stuck in my mind was about watching clouds recede down a valley (somewhere in Iceland/Scandinavia) like a ghost shimmering down a hallway. There are lots of these sort of things, this makes the book Very Good. However what made this book Excellent was the thrilling drama in the last few chapters. Not only is the book well written but it is full of interesting stories.
My only complaint is that she did not mention meeting a know-all pedestrian on the Post Office steps in Prague, where I seem to remember offering the little mite some advice!
Summary: A damn good read between cycle trips.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Lively account of biking adventures., July 27, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Wind in My Wheels: Travel Tales from the Saddle (Paperback)

I hope Josie keeps pedaling and keeps writing. Her narratives were fun and interesting. The author has strong opinions and a lively sense of humor. It makes you want to jump on your bike and go! The miles this woman has put on her bike are amazing. There is enough material in this book to have written two or three books, at least.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Gets you ready to roll, June 10, 2000

By 

Deepa Iyer (India, Bangalore) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Wind in My Wheels: Travel Tales from the Saddle (Paperback)

I chanced upon this book , many years ago while wondering whether it was safe to embark on a 60km ride outside the city. Josie's lively description of her adventures, in the saddle, in many countries,proved the turning point and I ventured out with a friend.

That 60km ride has unfortunately, not been following by many more. However, the book still enchants. I read it every once in a while, to loose myself in the freedom of 'the wind in my wheels'.

Recommended highly - if you like cycling, or travel or just have a sense of humour :)