Shelby H. (Shaverda) reviewed 23 Days in July: Inside The Tour De France and Lance Armstrong's Record-Breaking Victory on + 17 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 1
This was to me a great book even if you know virtually nothing about cycling and hold even the tiniest (perhaps passing) interest. (As well as life-long obsession!) The author explains everything as he goes along, but thankfully not in a redundant manner. However, there is always both an appendix and glossary in the back if you need it.
Anywho, the book was, to me, misleading at first; I thought it would only be about Armstrong, but it wasn't and I'm not disappointed. The author probably covers about 45% Armstrong (and his team), 30% others in the 2004 race, and 25% tour races past.
Wilcockson has the "straight writing" of virtually every sportswriter, but it's still very enjoyable. He tells it like it is, and also includes small bits of outside information, such as family toubles in a rider's life.
On the whole, a very enjoyable book, even for me who has never held any interest in cycling... but guess who's off to order Wilcockson's other books? :)
Anywho, the book was, to me, misleading at first; I thought it would only be about Armstrong, but it wasn't and I'm not disappointed. The author probably covers about 45% Armstrong (and his team), 30% others in the 2004 race, and 25% tour races past.
Wilcockson has the "straight writing" of virtually every sportswriter, but it's still very enjoyable. He tells it like it is, and also includes small bits of outside information, such as family toubles in a rider's life.
On the whole, a very enjoyable book, even for me who has never held any interest in cycling... but guess who's off to order Wilcockson's other books? :)
