BOOKS

How To Build a Motorcycle: A Racing Adventure of Mechanics, Teamwork, and Friendship

by Saskia LACEY
illus. by Martin Sodomka. 64p. (Technical Tales). diag. Quarto/Walter Foster Jr. Apr. 2016. Tr $14.95. ISBN 9781633220577.
COPY ISBN
Gr 4–6—With the same mix of plot and specific mechanical detail that went into building a car and an airplane in previous volumes of the series, the all-animal Scrap Pack reunites to construct a racing motorcycle from frame up. Head swollen by his role in previous projects, crew chief Eli annoys all but the worshipful young Fritz with exaggerated versions of his exploits, but mends fences with apologies after Fritz is seriously injured in a motorcycle accident. With another rider, the motorcycle goes on to win a race. In addition to scenes of the crew at work, illustrated diagrams of key motorcycle parts such as the suspension, engine, and clutch are featured throughout. A close-up of standard controls and a brief safety note may be helpful to prospective motorbike owners.
VERDICT Though far from being a step-by-step manual for would-be young makers, this does impart a better sense of how (smaller) motorcycles work than standard-issue browsing items like Amicus's Motorcycles from the "Motorsports" series.
Reviewed by John Peters, Children's Literature Consultant, New York City
A trio of animal friends works together on mechanical projects--through trial, error, and teamwork. Mouse Eli thinks big, bird Phoebe has a mind for machines, and frog Hank is cautious and well connected. The books attempt to teach readers some of the science behind the vehicles, but the facts aren't adequately explained. Detailed illustrations and diagrams are more engaging than the forced stories. Review covers these Technical Tales titles: How to Build a Car, How to Build a Motorcycle, and How to Build a Plane.
 , Jul 01, 2016

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