Major: A Black Athlete, a White Era, and the Fight to Be the World's Fastest Human Being

I read (and still own) the Andrew Ritchie book on Taylor and wondered what Todd Balf would have to add? I have to admit I've often not liked some of his magazine articles but whether I've changed since then or he's become a much better writer is open to question. I think he's become a better writer. I remember reading Ritchie's book like a textbook. I felt I needed to read it, but rarely was it enjoyable. Balf's on the other hand (even though I already knew the basic story) was hard to put down. I'm sure I'll read it again. If you want a definitive "textbook" on Major Taylor, Andrew Ritchie's your author. If you're looking for an enjoyable book about Major Taylor, it's Todd Balf's by a bike-length...or two!

I found the book to be well written and well-researched from a historical perspective. The book was enlightening, not only regarding cycling history but also cultural history.The major flaw in the book was in the epilogue regarding the Little 500 bike race at Indiana University. The author made the assumption that the 32 other teams in the Little 500 were protesting because Team Major Taylor had black riders. He did not seem to understand that the protest may have been in regard to a team being added to the race that did not qualify in the time trials thus depriving a qualifying team of a place in the race. Team Major Taylor qualified 6th in the 2008 race and finished 2nd. No protests took place. This was a minor portion of the book, but does cast some doubt that the remainder of the book was as thoroughly researched as it might have been. Was Floyd McFarland as really as bad as the author wrote? Or did the author embellish some of the facts to make a book?Todd Balf is an excellent writer with remarkable insight. Read the book, skip the epilogue. The author's assessment of early 20th century race relations is insightful; his attempt to extend this to the early 21st century comes up short.

Fun to read. I'm impressed!

Amazing story of a very brave and talented Black cyclist.

I like this book since it's a great read. I read this book for a biography book project. It was amazing.

Book was advertised 'used' but arrived in brand new condition!!! Made a great birthday present for my cycling-voracious-reading boyfriend. Thanks!

Ride a road bike & never knew about Major.

This book gives some new understanding to the history of the race and the amazing achievements that Major Taylor had in the race!

An amazing story of one of the founders of cycling. Inspirational and surprising not many people have heard of Major Taylor,