Dirt Track Racing FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature
Motorcycle racing began in the early 1900s simply as a way for manufacturers to test their motorcycles. Early Class A races were held on dirt tracks at fairgrounds originally built for horse races. Dirt track racers use more expensive tires and fuel than the motocross cycles described in other books in this series about motorcycles. In fact, because of the expense, new classes were created in recent years to make the sport more accessible. Young readers will be quick to note that one national champion received his Grand National license when he was only seventeen years old, and there is even a picture of a racer well under ten years old on a tiny racing motorcycle with the caption "Most racers begin their racing careers at a young age." Plenty of details are included about engines, classes of racing motorcycles and national champions over the last twenty years. A chapter is included in each book about safety rules and equipment, with special attention to helmets in this case. There is a glossary, an index, lists of useful addresses, Internet sites and additional sources of information. The "Motorcycles" series would be a useful addition to a classroom library where it might attract the attention of reluctant readers and otherwise distracted or disinterested youngsters. 2000, Capstone Press, $21.26. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer:Karen Leggett
School Library Journal
Gr 3-6-These books about different types of motorcycles are presented in a straightforward, informative style. They provide an introduction to specific types of racing, basic history, equipment, skills, and safety. What is not included is the price of equipment or diagrams of the specific kind of motorcycle that each title highlights. A large, full-color photo appears opposite almost every page of text. Individual titles from this series may be of interest to young people, but most libraries will not need all 10 books. Enthusiasts may prefer Michael Dregni's Motorcycle Racing (Capstone, 1994).-Diane Olivo-Posner, Long Beach Public Library, CA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.
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