BOOK REVIEWS
Our Ridiculous World ( Trip ) Matt Bishop / Reece Gilkes 2020 ISBN 978-1-838132-90-3
Our Ridiculous World ( Trip ), so true on many levels . This is the story of The Sidecar Guys ; Matt Bishop and Reece Gilkes as they rode a tiny Honda scooter with a sidecar around the world .
Whilst setting a Guinness World Record , the Sidecar Guys were highlighting the plight of many who have found themselves entrapped into a world of slavery . Our Ridiculous World ( Trip ) is not a history lesson , this is happening right now , and this ride was to highlight the issue .
Our Ridiculous World ( Trip ) is a story on two levels , that of slavery which , we ’ re a little disappointed that more information wasn ’ t provide about the encounters with those trying to put a stop to this worldwide issue , and the ride itself .
The ride is one of laughter , banter , and general good times , as the duo meet with surprises in the many lands where we ’ re told it ’ s too dangerous , the people are bad , the riding will be too tough . Thankfully , Matt and Reece ignore the nay-sayers to decide for themselves and realise the world is filled with rich encounters , where generally good overcomes bad .
There ’ s a simplicity to Our Ridiculous World ( Trip ) that highlights regardless of what you ’ re told , if you have a dream , there is always a way through determination , a scooter and sidecar …
Notes From The Road Vol III Derek Mansfield 2016 ISBN 978-0-995745-49-0
It ’ s hard not to be enthused by Derek Mansfield ’ s style of writing ; a wry wit embedded within a poetic flow , it ’ s a beautiful way with words that keeps the reader as engrossed in the adventure as Derek himself .
Notes From The Road Vol . III is the story of Derek riding to Mongolia from London , taking in many of the former states of the Soviet Union . His journey takes in numerous locations that involve some explanation of geopolitical history , some will see you laugh , many will bring a tear .
Derek has a way with others , a way that opens doors and tears down barriers , his honesty becomes theirs and we the reader learn so much more from an individuals point of view , none more so than from the author himself . Depression , suicide attempts , we aren ’ t spared a thing , yet Derek pulls us through as he did himself , it ’ s tough but we find a love . One thing that shines through
in Notes From The Road Vol . III is Derek ’ s realisation that there ’ s kindness wherever he looks , even in the darkest times he finds that love surrounds us .
Notes From The Road Vol . III is a little book with an epic tale , and we need more , so please , Derek , hurry up with more prequels and sequels .
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