Major Taylor: The Inspiring Story of a Black Cyclist and the Men Who Helped Him Achieve Worldwide Fame

Well written, lots of history that was new info to me. Good read and I would recommend it

There should be a movie about this man. He was earning 200,000 dollars a year when Babe Ruth was making 35,000 a year. He was an International star. But because he was black he and his wife suffered terrible indignities. Even in Europe and Australia. But it was far worse in the US.

As a native of Indianapolis who's family lived in the post WWII suburb of Eagledale on the city's NW side, I Ice skated on Lake Sullivan not far from my neighborhood. In1982, I think for the Pan Am games a velodrome was built right next to the lake. It was named The Major Taylor Velodrome. I had never heard of Major Taylor, but i learned that he we a black native of Indy who was a famous cyclist. That story was pretty incomplete and I always wanted to know more. Now I do! The authors have woven a very complete story of Major's life! Not just his sporting life but his life in total. From the racism he faced, to the short he forced from several white men through his career, to his personal life, to his life after racing, the story is complete, and very entertaining in it's telling! If i had a complaint, it would be that the authors were, at time, a little proud of their vocabulary! (I have a good vocabulary, but was glad i read this on a Kindle so I could look words up!) That said though, it didn't detect from the story! At the very least, the following purple will enjoy this book: People interested in sporting history, especially at y the turn of the century; people interested in the history of racism in that time; people interested in the industrial revolution; purple interested in bicycling; people interested in how people deal with racism; and just anyone who enjoys a good story! I am now extremely proud that the velodrome I occasionally drive by is named after Major Taylor!

The story of one of the most famous athletes in the biggest sport of it's time. Well researched and it includes a lot about the people who helped Major Taylor throughout his life on and off the track. I also enjoyed the photos at the end of the book. If you are a fan of Major Taylor or interested in his life you should enjoy this book

It was difficult reading this book and not be filled with rage regarding what Major Taylor had to endure racing here in the US. And through it all, he maintained silence and endured all that the white racers/riders plotted against him. Only when he got outside the US in Europe and Australia where he was absolutely loved, admired, respected and treated equally did he learn and understand how his own country was so racist. To be allowed in countries throughout Europe and Australia to stay in 5 star hotels but then return to the US and be thrown out of every restaurant or hotel he tried to stay in upon his return...I sat up late at night many evenings with tears in my eyes and how much this man, who gave so much and got so little in return from the white cyclists he competed against in the US. How they conspired to do everything they could to actually hurt him physically during the races. This was one of those books I found myself lying in bed at night reading until 2 a.m.It was without a doubt, one of the best books I've ever read in my life.Thanks to the authors.

The book entitled Major Taylor by Conrad and Terry Kerber is an incredible read. The Kerbers did a wonderful job crafting the book and meticulously researching Major Taylor’s life. Major Taylor was a phenomenon in the 1890s and became the first major black hero in America. His reputation soared internationally both in Europe and Australia. He was the dominant cyclist at a time when cycling was the predominant sport in America and Europee. Cycling races would draw 20,000+ fans to watch velodrome racing. Madison Square Garden hosted a grueling 6-day race of continuous riding with the winner decided by the number of miles cycled in 6 days on an indoor track. Major Taylor took only ~2 hours off each day to sleep and eat. There are so many amazing aspects of his story from his cycling prowess, his unmatched humility and his gift of forgiveness to hoards of white individuals who victimized him in ruthless racism. Major Taylor’s life was guided by his passion for cycling and his deep held Christian faith. It is no wonder so many people around the world respected him more for how he carried himself than his cycling power. This book is very captivating and a total joy to read. The only down side is that the book ends! What a wonderful read.

I'd never heard of Major Taylor until I read the Kerber brother's great book about determination, perseverance, and self discipline rolled up into one amazing man. Despite encountering vicious and violent racism throughout his racing career, Taylor patiently tolerated the hate directed at him and stayed committed to his drive to become the world champion of bicycle racing. His strong Christian faith helped him to stay calm and forgive the abuse he received throughout his life.Also amazing is the fact that Conrad and Terry Kerber, who had never written another book either before or after, took five years from their families and careers as financial advisors, to research (62 pages of sources) and write (339 pages) this terrific book. Kudos to the Kerbers!

I'd known about Major Taylor for years. Long before Greg Lemond won the Tour de France, Major Taylor was the first internationally renowned American cyclist. What I didn't know was he endured many obstacles during his life and career. I'm so glad I bought and read this book. Even though I truly suck as a bike rider (recreational only), I'm inspired to keep riding and keep doing the best I can even though I'm well into my "Golden Years".

the book is extremely long but it is fascinating and informative. it also shines a light on the incredible racing scene about 100 years aGo. it also silently points out that jackie robinson deservedly remembered as "breaking the colour bar" was also predated by a gentle, religious, highly principled man who has never become the household torch bearer which jackie robinson is

A fantastic gift for a racing cyclist

The book came very quickly and in great shape. The story is amazingly inspiring. When you think you know a bit about racism, you are surprised how far people go to reach their goals. major Taylor was amazing as an athlete and as a man. A great read!

Brilliant Book..... essential reading for those interested.Made a TV Commercial about him.... coming out soon !

Loved this book, who would have known....