Mike Magnuson

This novel is raw, powerful, and funny. The down on his luck guy from Wisconsin has run away from his problems and finds himself trying to collect from people behind on their rent to own payments. I read this book a long time ago, but its tone and emotions has stuck with me. The main character is not your Wisconsin dude that farms or works for the state and listens to NPR. No, this novel is about a guy you would find drinking at a local bar with his last 5 dollars on the counter. He is an show more antihero for sure, but Mr. Magnuson does get you to root for his success. A fun story when an author like Magnuson can pull it off. show less

A fast, pleasant read. There's nothing especially deep about Mike Magnuson's portrayals of the different types of cyclists -- everything from hardcore roadies, to commuters, to beach cruisers, to BMX riders, and mechanics and store managers thrown in for the heck of it. But it's fun to reflect on all the different types of riders and how you may or may not fit the stereotypes.

Magnuson has an easy writing style. He's written novels (notably The Right Man for the Job) and, more relevantly, show more many contributions to Bicycling magazine and other cycling and outdoor sports related magazines. Here he won't challenge you as a reader. He may make you cringe a bit if you find yourself closely resembling one or another of his sketches of cycling types, but, even there, he sticks to the positive -- he's no Bike Snob NYC.

I read the book in a couple of pretty short sessions, on rainy no-riding days. A nice diversion, nothing more, nothing less. If you want something more biting, try Bike Snob. show less

Mike's experiences are outrageous and things I have never heard anyone else do. yet they are uniquely Wisconsin as well. I loved this book. He tells great stories and does so in a tone that really made me feel like I was there with him. He does not hold back and is brutally honest about what he did and why he did them.

If you had any sort of wayward youth, I recommend this book. His stories are ones that you won't forget.

Once I got past the author's early life screwups with alcohol and a lack of commitment, I liked this story, a lot. I liked the writing style. A bit of a wacky tale, but well told.