In this ill-advised escapade, British humorist, travel writer -- and woefully inexperienced cyclist -- Moore (Frost on my Moustache) tackles the Tour de France. His lightweight account is great fun and you can't help but admire his determination. He didn't actually compete in the race, but he did finish (several weeks ahead of the actual event) the entire course. Apart from making hilarious fun of himself, Moore includes extended riffs on the history of the race and some its more famous personalities, wacky travelogue, and brief character sketches of headstrong proprietresses and shop clerks.  (FRN387, $14.95)

Bicycling