Greasy Rider

The author and his best friend from college embark on a cross-country journey in a car fueled only by vegetable oil. Along the way they investigate what ordinary people and companies are doing with sustainable technologies to protect the environment. Greasy Rider contains thoughtful discussion of environmental sustainability, alternative fuels, and the place of the individual in global issues. The author also shows how sustainable measures are within our reach and that the individual can play a part in preserving the planet, and make a difference. The combination of personal anecdote, relevant and often interesting supporting examples, and travel narrative will appeal to certain students. The first-person personal narrative voice and journalist style may also appeal to some students. The audience for this book, however, may be somewhat limited. Despite the important issues raised in Greasy Rider, the general content is likely to date itself quickly. References to people, events, and technologies will seem dated or confusing to some readers as time passes. This is a shortcoming of a book focused on practises which are quickly surpassed.

Suggested Uses:
This book would be difficult as a whole-class study, as it would not appeal to a wide swath of students, but there would be interest among some students in reading and discussing the issues in Greasy Rider. It might best serve as a small-group reading or literature circles selection.

Social Considerations:
Some may question the author's presentation of sustainable technologies and find counter-arguments in favour of other solutions to environmental issues, but the author does present a balanced investigation into what ordinary people and companies are doing, and the costs of doing it.