Freewheeling: New Sports & Recreation Books
From meditations on cycling to inspiring stories of athleticism, here's a small selection of recently acquired sports and recreation books.
I'm that girl : living the power of my dreams by Chiles, Jordan
An empowering read about overcoming obstacles that will speak to not only athletes, but anyone who has faced the highs and lows of chasing a massive dream. In 'I'm that Girl', Jordan Chiles tells her story of competing in gymnastics on the world stage, and the triumphs and challenges she has faced in the Olympic spotlight. Reviewers are praising this book as an inspiring story of power and resilience, and also a fascinating behind the scenes look into what it's like to compete on the world's most famous and followed athletic stage.
Freewheeling : essays on cycling
A collection of essays about the joys of cycling, not just as a mode of transport or form of exercise, but also as a vehicle for meditation, self-discovery and philosophy. Each essay brings a different, personal perspective on biking and its many forms. One essay reflects on a hamster's happiness during a peloton class; another explores living one's true identity after reuniting with a childhood BMX. There's also an essay from Wellington's very own Ashleigh Young, which Leftlion praises for being "as emphatic a piece of writing as you’ll come across this year." Reviewers are calling this "an evocative and thought-provoking anthology" and "a delightful ride".
The Art of Skateboarding: Skateboarding's urban heritage by Barco, Sylvie
An illustrated guide to the history and cultural scene of skateboarding from critically acclaimed photographer Sylvie Barco. Drop into empty swimming pools of 1960s Los Angeles. Be transported to a front-row seat at the Olympic skate-park. Told through first-hand accounts and never-before-seen photography, experience an insider's perspective on the freewheeling history of skateboarding.
A fascinating and in-depth look into the history of Tongariro National Park, covering ghost stories, plane crashes, intrepid explorers, rescues, local mysteries and more! As well as a collection of well-researched and engrossing stories, this book also offers a plethora of incredible historical images, maps, and beautiful backcountry photography. With positive reviews from publications such as The Spinoff and NZ Listener, this title looks like a must-read for anyone who plans on hiking through this gem of our national parks, or anyone with an interest in local history told through riveting storytelling.
The drowned places : diving in search of Atlantis by Le Bas, Damian
An exploration of the sunken ruins and secret worlds hidden in our oceans, told through personal narrative. Critics are calling this book a "love letter to diving" and "The most captivating book on diving" that they've ever read. 'The Drowned Places' is about the intense nature of the sport of diving, and Le Bas's journey from fearing the ocean to dedicating their life to exploring it. From this personal story, this book becomes an invitation to submerged worlds, from ancient ruins, to shopping trolleys, to motorcycles which fish now call their home. A weaving of mythic stories of lost civilisations and a personal exploration of fear and grief; this book is bound to be a fascinating read for anyone who's wondered what's there under the surface.
In this powerful biography, Katrina Gorry shares her story of determination and carving your own path both on and off the field. Gorry has had an incredible football career. She shone as part of the Matildas' 2023 line-up who captured the hearts of fans all around the globe during the Football World Cup. She's represented Australia at the Olympics twice, and she's played overseas in many of the top football leagues in the world. Her story hasn't been easy, she even at one point was ready to give-up on her life's passion, but after a successful IVF journey leading to the birth of her daughter Gorry was drawn back into the game with a newfound confidence and comfort with her body. A deeply personal and beautiful memoir about unwavering determination, courage and the renewing power of love.
The white ladder : triumph and tragedy at the dawn of mountaineering by Light, Daniel
This book traverses the paths and stories of early mountaineering through a collection of ambitious explorers and the peaks they sought to reach. What drives a person to such dangerous quests is a mystery that this book seeks to shed light on. The result is a collection of stories which reviewers are saying is a fascinating look into humanity's history with these treacherous peaks. Readers are loving this title too, calling this book a captivating read, filled with fascinating characters and historical drama.