Bicycles

This engaging, graphic-rich manual documents how Aaron Dykstra creates custom-made bicycles. Crisp full-color photos follow his actions, starting with the basic questions he asks his customers so that he can use a computer to generate specifications, and then the step-by-step mechanical processes of measuring, cutting, milling, filing, sanding, blasting, and assembling all with appropriate safety precautions, of course. The process rolls across the pages, allowing readers to see how the frame develops into the finished product. Accompanying background information fills in details both about the history of the bicycle and about Aaron's life, telling how he came to be a master bike maker. Aaron's story mentions his early experimentation and occasional mistakes, which prepare readers for a final two-page spread about his Making Foundation. This initiative is intended to give kids confidence by teaching them the skills they need to make their own STEM-inspired creations. Recycling old bikes is suggested, but so are a number of other craft ideas. This is a solid and attractive addition for maker collections.--McBroom, Kathleen Copyright 2017 Booklist

Gr 3 Up-Bicycles may look like a relatively simple piece of equipment to make, but this title aims to prove otherwise. Lakin introduces readers to passionate entrepreneur and bicycle maker Aaron Dykstra. The narrative takes kids through a brief history of the bicycle before launching into Dykstra's path to bicycle making, which eventually led him to study with acclaimed builder Koichi Yamaguchi. The well-organized, dynamic, and engaging prose educates readers on Dykstra's step-by-step process for making a bike frame. Photographs and black-and-white doodles sprinkled throughout help connect contemporary ideas and uses of the bicycle to its historical origins. This selection is perfect for STEM-based units on building things by hand, recycling, and engineering. In addition to the back matter, Lakin provides information on joining Dykstra's STEM program, the Making Foundation, for middle grade students. VERDICT A must-have for school and public libraries in need of materials to support STEM curricula and maker spaces.-Kathia Ibacache, Simi Valley Public Library, CA © Copyright 2017. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.