The Running Machine - by Keith Negley (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Before there were trains, or cars, or planes, people rode horses to travel from place to place. Then came the Year without a Summer, when a cloud of volcanic ash blocked the sun and crops withered across half the world oats to eat, horses grew too weak to walk. Everyone despaired--how would they get around? But one day, a young forester had a bright idea in the darkness... Inspired by true events, 'The Running Machine' shows how resilience in the face of adversity can lead to something wondrous"--

Book Synopsis

A story of pluck and determination inspired by the real events of 1815-17, when a young man named Karl Drais invented the very first bicycle.

Before there were trains, or cars, or planes, people rode horses to travel from place to place.

Then came the Year without a Summer, when a cloud of volcanic ash blocked the sun and crops withered across half the world. With no oats to eat, horses grew too weak to walk. Everyone despaired--how would they get around?

But one day, a young forester had a bright idea in the darkness...

Inspired by true events, The Running Machine shows how resilience in the face of adversity can lead to something wondrous.

Review Quotes

"Appended with an author's note that clarifies the facts (and fictions) in the narrative, this will make a good companion to other bicycle-history picture books, including Sarah Nelson's Birth of the Bicycle (2024)." - Booklist

"An excellent choice for young readers, with outstanding illustrations and a thoughtful text that stresses resourcefulness and perseverance." - School Library Journal

"A terrific fictionalized narrative." - Horn Book Magazine

Praise for MARY WEARS WHAT SHE WANTS: "A young schoolgirl learns to follow her own rules despite opposition and pressure in this picture book inspired by Mary Edward Walker. An endearing delivery of a valuable message." - Kirkus Reviews

"This is an empowering story with a sunny ending, and striking watercolor pencil and cut-paper artwork." - ALA Booklist

"This fast-paced story will delight young readers, especially enthusiastic bike riders. An enticing glimpse into an inventor's process." - Kirkus Reviews

"The writing is succinct and appropriate for reading aloud. Appended with an author's note that clarifies the facts (and fictions) in the narrative, this will make a good companion to other bicycle-history picture books." - Booklist Online

"Each page is a work of art."

- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books