Reading Nook: National Bike Month

As gas prices and obesity rates continue to climb in the United States, pedaling your way around town is becoming a more attractive option.

To add an extra dollop of encouragement, the League of American Bicyclists is sponsoring National Bike Month during May, with Friday being deemed Bike to Work Day. Even the Berkley Department of Parks & Recreation Department is getting in on the healthful fun, co-hosting with American Cycle and Fitness.

If you'd like to learn more about biking or inspire your little ones to take up a two-wheeled mode of transport, check out these titles selected by children's librarian Karen Tower and Director Celia Morse.

Happy biking! And, reading!

Children's books

• Curious George Rides a Bike by H. A. Rey, 1952. George, a very curious monkey, finds adventure and trouble when he gets a new bicycle.
• Ducking for Apples by Lynne Berry, 2010. Five young ducks ride their bicycles in search of apples to pick for a homemade pie.
• Bicycles by Kristin Petrie, 2009. A look at bicycles from the earliest models (without pedals) to those used today for work and play.

Adult books

• The Bicycling Guide to Complete Bicycle Maintenance and Repair by Todd Downs, 2010. Thousands of up-to-date tips to repair and maintain any road or mountain bike for both beginning and experienced riders.
• Michigan's Bicycle Trails by Ray Hoven, 2005. Recommended scenic rides of varying lengths with detailed maps, mileage and things to see along the way.