Gracie Goat's Big Bike Race

Children ages 5-8 will especially enjoy this story, which goes well beyond the perils of learning to ride a bike to explain the sport of cycling and the teamwork that a bike race demands. Gracie's sincerity and persistence will win the hearts of readers of all ages as she learns the importance of trying new and scary things.

When Howard Horse invites his friends to ride in the Summer Corn Festival Bike Race, everyone is excited to join in the fun. Everyone, that is, except Gracie Goat. Gracie is the only one who doesn't know how to ride a bike. Fear of failure sends Gracie's imagination soaring with the potential calamities, which she presents to her grandma in a most convincing fashion. With a sparkle in her eye, Grandma Goat makes a deal with Gracie, persuading her to face her fears and try to learn how to ride a bike in time for the race.

Each book in the Barnsville Sports Squad series will focus on a different Olympic sport and will champion good sportsmanship through situations that children can easily understand. The stories will also include fitness tips for kids to put into practice as they participate in their own favourite sports - there is a fitness fact page about hydration for children.

Author and illustrator biographies:
Erin Mirabella represented the US in cycling at two Olympic Games. The Barnsville Sports Squad series is inspired by her racing experience - the series highlights the fun, value and life-long lessons that sports offer. Erin was awarded the Olympic Committee’s Fair Play award for sportsmanship in 2006.

Lisa Horstman is a recipient of the Dr. Seuss Picture-book award and has created six picturebooks - four of which she wrote.