Chased by Pandas: My Life in the Mysterious World of Cycling by Dan Martin

This year’s edition of The Tour de France will be without one of it’s more beloved recent figures: Dan Martin, recently retired at age 35.

One of road racing’s last romantics for his racing style and attitude, a former winner of the Tour’s Most Combative Rider trophy, Martin tells his story in a forthright way, touching on common fears, joys and concerns, from crashing, doping, team dynamics, mountains, friendships and discipline.

An enjoyable read, thanks to the warm and open spirit that shines through.

Adult Non-Fiction Paperback pr7178808

 Sing Her Down: A Novel by Ivy Pochoda

A look at the entwined lives of two Arizona women’s penitentiary inmates, while incarcerated and following Covid prompted early releases, as they make their way to LA.

Pochoda (These Women), who teaches creative writing to women in prison, continues to excel at crafting taut literary thrillers with sharply realized characters struggling to survive in challenging conditions.

Publishers Weekly gave this book an enthusiastic review (2023-3-20), calling it a “searing, accomplished page-turner” that “deserves a wide audience.” I couldn’t agree more.

Adult Fiction Hardcover pr6992569