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The Big Ol' Bike
Big things are happening in Little Springs…
Everything about Oliver is small, from his footprint to his glasses—and a trio of bullies never let him forget it. When Oliver receives his grandfather’s old bike for his birthday, he rides tall for the first time. However, the meanest bully in school doesn’t like that at all. Oliver finds himself challenged to a race. Now, he’ll have to be bigger than he ever imagined in order to prove heroes come in small packages too.
The Big Ol' Bike is a children's chapter book for ages 7-10, written and illustrated by Rachael Clarke. Themes of bullying, family, friendship, community, and finding one's confidence are all explored within this story. This book is longer than average for this age range, intended as a transition between chapter book and middle grade novel.
WARNING: reading this book may cause an immediate and urgent need to ride your bike. Do not be alarmed - the feeling will pass. But don't let it. ;)
Everything about Oliver is small, from his footprint to his glasses—and a trio of bullies never let him forget it. When Oliver receives his grandfather’s old bike for his birthday, he rides tall for the first time. However, the meanest bully in school doesn’t like that at all. Oliver finds himself challenged to a race. Now, he’ll have to be bigger than he ever imagined in order to prove heroes come in small packages too.
The Big Ol' Bike is a children's chapter book for ages 7-10, written and illustrated by Rachael Clarke. Themes of bullying, family, friendship, community, and finding one's confidence are all explored within this story. This book is longer than average for this age range, intended as a transition between chapter book and middle grade novel.
WARNING: reading this book may cause an immediate and urgent need to ride your bike. Do not be alarmed - the feeling will pass. But don't let it. ;)
- GenresMiddle Grade
152 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2020
17 people want to read
About the author
Rachael Clarke
13 books45 followersRachael Clarke is a former police officer turned stay-at-home-mom living in Portage la Prairie, MB. She shares her life with a sport-aholic husband, two adorable kids, and a couple of quirky dogs. Rachael is currently working on a little bit of a lot, which includes her first novel, and writing/illustrating her next children's chapter book.
Rachael also writes multi-genre short fiction under the pen name R.A. Clarke, where she tends to favour all things fantastical, dark, and humorous.
Check out Rachael's other social media:
Twitter: @raclarkewrites
https://www.instagram.com/rachaelclar...
https://www.facebook.com/rachaelclark... (focuses on children's literature)
https://www.facebook.com/raclarkeauthor (focuses on short fiction and other writing - in any genre. Not geared towards children)
Rachael also writes multi-genre short fiction under the pen name R.A. Clarke, where she tends to favour all things fantastical, dark, and humorous.
Check out Rachael's other social media:
Twitter: @raclarkewrites
https://www.instagram.com/rachaelclar...
https://www.facebook.com/rachaelclark... (focuses on children's literature)
https://www.facebook.com/raclarkeauthor (focuses on short fiction and other writing - in any genre. Not geared towards children)
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 4, 2021
5☆ A Superb and Inspirational Read!
Wow oh wow did this book touch my heart in so many ways.
I was bullied at school and books like this help children so much I can't praise it enough.
As much as I want to shout out, all about the plot I fear I might give something away and ruin the beauty of this story.
So I will highlight the importance, firstly as I mentioned earlier it deals with bullying, how bullying makes children feel, being different from others, embracing your individuality and recognising your self worth and happiness, the value of friendships, doing a selfless deed, knowing the difference between right and wrong and most importantly communicating how you feel to a grown up, teacher or parent.
I'm a qualified nursery nurse and although this book is aimed at middle grade readers I think children as young as 6 can learn from this book. I would absolutely love to see this book in all schools and read as learning material to help children understand about bullying, feelings, being kind etc.. it's so so important as many children feel alone when being bullied.
Not only does this book deal with difficult subjects it also shows methods to help deal with bullies and who you can speak too.
It also has an Uplifting ending that made my heart beam with happiness.
This book is Inspirational, Heart Warming, Engaging, Educational, Poignant and Highly Compelling.
All of the little details were superbly plotted. It was a quick and enjoyable read that had me turning the pages to see what would happen next.
I also want to mention how much I loved the added illustrations it bought the story to life.
Everyone remembers their first bike and the story behind The Big Ol Bike just melted my heart!..... Everyone needs a Big Red in their life and a lil bit of Oliver's Courage and zest for life!
Would I recommend reading this Delightful Children's Book?....... without a Doubt......100% YES!!
Thank you to Damppebbles Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
Wow oh wow did this book touch my heart in so many ways.
I was bullied at school and books like this help children so much I can't praise it enough.
As much as I want to shout out, all about the plot I fear I might give something away and ruin the beauty of this story.
So I will highlight the importance, firstly as I mentioned earlier it deals with bullying, how bullying makes children feel, being different from others, embracing your individuality and recognising your self worth and happiness, the value of friendships, doing a selfless deed, knowing the difference between right and wrong and most importantly communicating how you feel to a grown up, teacher or parent.
I'm a qualified nursery nurse and although this book is aimed at middle grade readers I think children as young as 6 can learn from this book. I would absolutely love to see this book in all schools and read as learning material to help children understand about bullying, feelings, being kind etc.. it's so so important as many children feel alone when being bullied.
Not only does this book deal with difficult subjects it also shows methods to help deal with bullies and who you can speak too.
It also has an Uplifting ending that made my heart beam with happiness.
This book is Inspirational, Heart Warming, Engaging, Educational, Poignant and Highly Compelling.
All of the little details were superbly plotted. It was a quick and enjoyable read that had me turning the pages to see what would happen next.
I also want to mention how much I loved the added illustrations it bought the story to life.
Everyone remembers their first bike and the story behind The Big Ol Bike just melted my heart!..... Everyone needs a Big Red in their life and a lil bit of Oliver's Courage and zest for life!
Would I recommend reading this Delightful Children's Book?....... without a Doubt......100% YES!!
Thank you to Damppebbles Tours for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/0...
February 28, 2021
I was delighted to receive this as I wanted to do something with my grandson over the phone. Every evening when he got into bed he video called me and I read him a chapter of this story.
Oliver is a very likeable and relatable young boy. My grandson said he wanted to be Oliver’s friend.
The storyline is very good and gave us many opportunities to chat about Oliver and what was happening throughout the story. We even called my partner in so he could ask his granda if he had a bike when he was younger. After reading this we have planned to pop on our bikes and go for a ride when we are allowed.
Oliver is a very likeable and relatable young boy. My grandson said he wanted to be Oliver’s friend.
The storyline is very good and gave us many opportunities to chat about Oliver and what was happening throughout the story. We even called my partner in so he could ask his granda if he had a bike when he was younger. After reading this we have planned to pop on our bikes and go for a ride when we are allowed.
March 2, 2021
What a wonderful story about The Bog Ol' Bike was, as I read it I was reminded of my old Raleigh Chopper. I loved that bike and was gutted when I was then given a Raleigh Shopper! I was due to go to secondary school then and needed a bike suitable for carrying my school books. Yes a sensible decision, but still...
Back to the book, this is a gorgeous story that the author and illustrator has presented. It is about young Oliver and his bike. His old bike was too small for him and he is given his grandfathers old bike. Not a modern machine but one that Oliver loves.
This old bike however gives the school bullies something to tease poor Oliver about. It makes him doubt himself and also the reason behind the present.
The author has tackled bullying in this story as well as having a belief in yourself. it has been done in such a way as to encourage the reader to discuss problems they may be having. More importantly, I do think this book is a deal to sit and chat about. It would be great to pause the reading and start a discussion about "what would you do if it was you?"
This is such a lovely story and one that I do think is ideal for the age group of 7-10 that it is aimed at. It does have some very helpful advice that is part of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I would definitely recommend it.
Back to the book, this is a gorgeous story that the author and illustrator has presented. It is about young Oliver and his bike. His old bike was too small for him and he is given his grandfathers old bike. Not a modern machine but one that Oliver loves.
This old bike however gives the school bullies something to tease poor Oliver about. It makes him doubt himself and also the reason behind the present.
The author has tackled bullying in this story as well as having a belief in yourself. it has been done in such a way as to encourage the reader to discuss problems they may be having. More importantly, I do think this book is a deal to sit and chat about. It would be great to pause the reading and start a discussion about "what would you do if it was you?"
This is such a lovely story and one that I do think is ideal for the age group of 7-10 that it is aimed at. It does have some very helpful advice that is part of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I would definitely recommend it.
December 18, 2020
Sweet, heartfelt story that all middle-graders should read! I love the emphasis of things that MEAN something instead of the biggest or most expensive. I love the overcoming-the-bullies aspect, and the main character (Oliver) is extremely lovable.
Fantastic read.
Fantastic read.
December 5, 2021
I loved this book and its wonderful characters. Oliver faces challenges and hurdles, and makes you want to see him succeed. At the same time, the Big Ol' Bike brings me back to my own childhood, and my own experiences with bullying, overcoming and the joy of family and friends. Just a wonderful book that everyone should read.
December 29, 2022
Read this book with my littles, ages 4 and 6, and we all thoroughly enjoyed it. An engaging read for kids of all ages.
Updated: My son, now 8, just picked up this book and devoured it in 2 days. He loved it!
Updated: My son, now 8, just picked up this book and devoured it in 2 days. He loved it!
March 7, 2021
A beautiful story with a bunch of beautiful messages.
The Big Ol’ Bike features the story of Oliver, a little boy from a little town. He could not be more proud of his grandfather’s old bike that was handed over to him as a birthday present, but the mean bullies in his school were determined to make him feel terrible about it. Although Oliver was in trouble, his loving friends and family had his back. The bullies were not ready to give up, and it was up to him to prove his worth and that of his big old bike.
The amazing book not only holds the instances of a sweet family bond and strong friendships, but also teaches the young readers to appreciate the beauty of what they have in life. It portrays the impact of unconditional support of loved ones on the inner world of a child, which is one of the best sides of the story.
The book is written in a simple yet attractive language, which makes it suitable for the targeted audience.
Recommended for children aged 7-10.
(I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
The Big Ol’ Bike features the story of Oliver, a little boy from a little town. He could not be more proud of his grandfather’s old bike that was handed over to him as a birthday present, but the mean bullies in his school were determined to make him feel terrible about it. Although Oliver was in trouble, his loving friends and family had his back. The bullies were not ready to give up, and it was up to him to prove his worth and that of his big old bike.
The amazing book not only holds the instances of a sweet family bond and strong friendships, but also teaches the young readers to appreciate the beauty of what they have in life. It portrays the impact of unconditional support of loved ones on the inner world of a child, which is one of the best sides of the story.
The book is written in a simple yet attractive language, which makes it suitable for the targeted audience.
Recommended for children aged 7-10.
(I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily)
November 8, 2020
I absolutely love and adore this sweet children's story. It's so relatable, the voice is spot-on for children's lit, and its a fun read. We follow the story of a young boy, age 11, as he faces bullies and trying to grow up in a big word- all while feeling a little small. This is story of family, bravery, and friendship that I will definitely read again and strongly recommend for parents, you will not be disappointed! Note: I received a free ARC digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2020
I just love everything about this book. This will help a lot of children.
This is a good book if you want to transition from children's books to middle grade books.
"Don't let anybody make you feel bad about being who you are, you hear? Not ever."
In a world full of brand new trends, we need to be reminded of the things we have with sentimental value and this book does that. I've been a grade school teacher for a year and I noticed how children tend to pressure their parents to get them the newest gadget, the coolest notebook, or the trendy bag in the internet. It's nice to see this story about a boy struggling to defend himself against bullies because he doesn't have those 'new things' until he spoke to his parents. That's why the role of the parents is very important.
Nostalgic, fun and easy... It has great family dynamics, fantastic imagery and appealing illustrations made by the author. I hope every child will get to read a book like this.
This is a good book if you want to transition from children's books to middle grade books.
"Don't let anybody make you feel bad about being who you are, you hear? Not ever."
In a world full of brand new trends, we need to be reminded of the things we have with sentimental value and this book does that. I've been a grade school teacher for a year and I noticed how children tend to pressure their parents to get them the newest gadget, the coolest notebook, or the trendy bag in the internet. It's nice to see this story about a boy struggling to defend himself against bullies because he doesn't have those 'new things' until he spoke to his parents. That's why the role of the parents is very important.
Nostalgic, fun and easy... It has great family dynamics, fantastic imagery and appealing illustrations made by the author. I hope every child will get to read a book like this.
February 27, 2021
Many thanks to Damppebbles Blog Tours, Rachael Clarke, and Book Locker for providing me with a digital copy of The Big Ol’ Bike with a request for an honest review.
Rachael Clarke works magic into The Big Ol’ Bike. Never have I had so many emotions course through my body in a scant 81 pages. I know it is a children’s book, but the feelings are there.
Ollie is a sweet boy. No matter what life throws at him, he has an excellent attitude about life. Ollie makes me feel hopeful about the world. When he received the big ol’ bike, my breath caught in my chest. He was so proud to have his grandpa’s bike. His joy was also my joy.
I love this kid! I want to wrap my arms around Ollie, his family, and his friends. Even though there are bullies who sully his life, Ollie is still a hero. The ending was only sort of what I was expecting. I won’t spoil it, but I will say that I shed some tears of happiness.
I am happy to award The Big Ol’ Bike a full 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to see my granddaughters so I can read this to them. I know they will love it too! I urge you to pick this one up for all the little people in your life.
Rachael Clarke works magic into The Big Ol’ Bike. Never have I had so many emotions course through my body in a scant 81 pages. I know it is a children’s book, but the feelings are there.
Ollie is a sweet boy. No matter what life throws at him, he has an excellent attitude about life. Ollie makes me feel hopeful about the world. When he received the big ol’ bike, my breath caught in my chest. He was so proud to have his grandpa’s bike. His joy was also my joy.
I love this kid! I want to wrap my arms around Ollie, his family, and his friends. Even though there are bullies who sully his life, Ollie is still a hero. The ending was only sort of what I was expecting. I won’t spoil it, but I will say that I shed some tears of happiness.
I am happy to award The Big Ol’ Bike a full 5 out of 5 stars. I can’t wait to see my granddaughters so I can read this to them. I know they will love it too! I urge you to pick this one up for all the little people in your life.
March 5, 2021
"The Big Ol' Bike" is a very positive story that is written very well, with some great illustrations that helped bring the book to life. The main character, Oliver, is adorable. I think kids would get a kick out of reading this alone, but it's also the perfect book for parents to share with their kids as there are lots of talking points to be found here. Kids need more books like this.
This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion. My thanks to damppebblesblogtours
This review was written voluntarily and is entirely my own, unbiased, opinion. My thanks to damppebblesblogtours
April 3, 2021
Oh, my this isn't a 5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 book it's a 10🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 book! You will not forget reading this book for a very long time. So moving! So inspirational! The world needs more books like this! So well written! Love the ( touch of the heart moments) emotional rollercoaster ride! So many moved to tears moments. Life lessons rolled up in such a tiny book. Such a talented author. This is a must read, highly recommended book.
Inspirational! Heart warming! Engaging! Educational! Compelling! Poignant! Quick, enjoyable read.
I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review.
Inspirational! Heart warming! Engaging! Educational! Compelling! Poignant! Quick, enjoyable read.
I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review.
October 2, 2020
This is a really fun book with a wonderful theme about being kind and standing up for yourself! I read it with my 7-year-old, and he thoroughly enjoyed it! It’s family-friendly, fun, and relatable for both boys and girls!!
October 2, 2020
Very entertaining book with a wonderful theme. You will find yourself rooting for the main characters as they struggle with real-life issues. I think both boys and girls will relate to the characters. What a great read for the entire family!
October 2, 2020
Excellent middle grades adventure story about Oliver, a boy with big dreams and a big bike! I love the family and community relationships in this book and how Oliver has to face obstacles of bullying and doubt. Great family read or class read aloud! This should be on every kid’s bookshelf!
December 5, 2021
This is a wonderful, wholesome book about overcoming challenges as a child. My kids enjoyed it.
February 24, 2021
This book is absolutely beautiful – it combines such loveable characters with important life lessons, creating essential reading for kids, (as well as being the perfect tool for getting your kids to ride their bike more!)
It transported me to my childhood for short while and it was an absolute joy to read. I loved the attention to detail with each character, and the author has given each one a personality that really sticks with you, whether a character is kind or a bully! I loved how the story focuses on a range of topics, from friendship and family bonds to the bravery and courage of one character as he stands up for himself. The book also teaches about appreciating the sentimental value of things, which was one of my favourite parts! This story is genuinely one of the most heartwarming children’s books I’ve come across and I just know that what comes next from this author will be just as brilliant.
You can see my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/02...
It transported me to my childhood for short while and it was an absolute joy to read. I loved the attention to detail with each character, and the author has given each one a personality that really sticks with you, whether a character is kind or a bully! I loved how the story focuses on a range of topics, from friendship and family bonds to the bravery and courage of one character as he stands up for himself. The book also teaches about appreciating the sentimental value of things, which was one of my favourite parts! This story is genuinely one of the most heartwarming children’s books I’ve come across and I just know that what comes next from this author will be just as brilliant.
You can see my full review over on my blog: https://aquintillionwords.com/2021/02...
August 30, 2021
I really enjoyed this story! Rachael blends themes of courage, identity, and friendship into a beautiful story about a boy who finds value in an object that other's scoff at. The ending was sweet and powerful. I found it very rewarding to watch the main character take charge and become the hero. Bravo Rachael.
December 23, 2020
I read this book with my 9-year-old and we both thoroughly enjoyed it. It captures those late elementary/early middle school years when bullying and bike-riding are paramount, and the story does so in a empathetic, kind way. The illustrations are great as well, and add even more excitement to the storyline. I recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this author!
February 2, 2021
The Big Ol’ Bike rocks!
This simple relatable tale will make you cheer and touch your heart. Great read for middle graders. Ebook is a bargain!
This simple relatable tale will make you cheer and touch your heart. Great read for middle graders. Ebook is a bargain!
Read
November 26, 2020I couldn't be more excited to share The Big Ol' Bike with the world. This tale is a contemporary slice of life filled with characters who could live down the street from you, or have a locker beside yours in school. Let yourselves be drawn in as you read. The town of Little Springs welcomes you. Come hang out with Oliver, Austin, and Sue, as they experience excitement, setbacks, and adventure.
I purposefully wrote The Big Ol' Bike longer than the average story for this age range, because I wanted to provide a nice middle ground between a chapter book and a middle grade novel. It's perfect for those eager readers who never want the story to end, while also being an easy read for kids that prefer to take it chapter by chapter. Or, you could read it aloud as a family too. However you get to the end, just make sure to enjoy the ride. :)
All the best,
Rachael Clarke
I purposefully wrote The Big Ol' Bike longer than the average story for this age range, because I wanted to provide a nice middle ground between a chapter book and a middle grade novel. It's perfect for those eager readers who never want the story to end, while also being an easy read for kids that prefer to take it chapter by chapter. Or, you could read it aloud as a family too. However you get to the end, just make sure to enjoy the ride. :)
All the best,
Rachael Clarke
January 23, 2021
The Big Ol' Bike - A touch of nostalgic
The Big Ol’ Bike brought back sweet memories of my old bike, a little nostalgic, and I loved it. The overall message is about bullying and the loving relationship between family, neighbors, and best friends. Bullying is a tough subject for any child to endure and talk about, but reading The Big Ol’ Bike parents can read along and help their child learn some positive strategies to overcome the ugliness of bullying. Great read, fun adventures, the author’s illustrations enhanced the reading experience.
The Big Ol’ Bike brought back sweet memories of my old bike, a little nostalgic, and I loved it. The overall message is about bullying and the loving relationship between family, neighbors, and best friends. Bullying is a tough subject for any child to endure and talk about, but reading The Big Ol’ Bike parents can read along and help their child learn some positive strategies to overcome the ugliness of bullying. Great read, fun adventures, the author’s illustrations enhanced the reading experience.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews