The Bicycle Man By Allen Say
The Bicycle Man is a children's picture book written and illustrated by Allen Say. It tells the story of a young boy named Thomas who is fascinated by bicycles but cannot afford one. One day, he meets a kind old man who runs a bicycle shop and offers to teach Thomas how to ride a bike. The boy learns not only how to ride, but also the value of hard work and perseverance. Here is a closer look at this heartwarming tale.
The Story
The Bicycle Man is set in the 1940s in a small town in California. Thomas is a young African American boy who loves watching people ride their bicycles. He dreams of owning one himself, but his family cannot afford it. Thomas spends his days helping his mother at home or playing with his friends in the park. One day, he notices an old man who runs a bicycle shop and decides to visit him.
The old man, who is known as the Bicycle Man, is initially gruff and dismissive of Thomas. However, he eventually takes pity on the boy and offers to teach him how to ride a bike. Thomas is overjoyed and begins to work for the Bicycle Man in exchange for the lessons. He learns to ride and fix bikes, and soon becomes an expert.
However, Thomas's newfound confidence is threatened when his friends tease him for working for the Bicycle Man, who is rumored to be mean and scary. Thomas must decide whether to stand up for himself and his mentor or to give in to peer pressure.
The Themes
The Bicycle Man touches on several important themes, including perseverance, hard work, and the value of mentorship. Thomas's determination to learn how to ride a bike despite his family's financial struggles is a testament to his resilience. He works hard to earn the Bicycle Man's trust and to become an expert at fixing bikes.
The story also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the impact that a kind and patient teacher can have on a young person's life. The Bicycle Man is not only a skilled bike mechanic, but also a wise and compassionate mentor who helps Thomas develop his skills and confidence.
The Illustrations
The illustrations in The Bicycle Man are done in Allen Say's signature style, which combines realistic details with whimsical elements. The scenes are drawn in muted colors that evoke the nostalgia of the 1940s. The characters are expressive and engaging, and the images capture the joy and excitement of riding a bike.
The Reception
The Bicycle Man was published in 1982 and has since become a beloved classic. It has won several awards, including the Caldecott Honor and the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award. The book has been praised for its heartwarming message and beautiful illustrations, as well as its portrayal of a young African American boy as the protagonist.
The Legacy
The Bicycle Man has inspired many readers over the years and has been adapted into a play and a short film. It continues to be a popular choice for parents and educators who want to teach children about the value of hard work, perseverance, and mentorship.
Overall, The Bicycle Man is a timeless story that celebrates the joys of cycling and the power of kindness. It is a must-read for anyone who loves children's literature or who wants to inspire young people to pursue their dreams.