Bikers' Bookshelf

By Sam Manicom

Motorcycling Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Sidetracked by the Unexpected. The 4th book in the adventure series.

‘This book is a brilliant account of touring on a motorcycle and the journey taken. If you want to know why motorcyclists get out into the big world and ride across it then it’s all here.’ Motorcycle Sport and Leisure

Sam Manicom’s fourth book is a gripping rollercoaster of a two-wheeled journey which takes you riding across the dramatic landscapes of Mexico, the United States and Canada. This enticing tale has more twists and turns than a Rocky Mountain pass and more surprises than anyone would expect in a lifetime. There are canyons, cowboys, idyllic beaches, bears, mountains, Californian vineyards, gun-toting policemen with grudges, glaciers, exploding volcanoes, dodgy border crossings and some of the most stunning open roads that a traveller could ever wish to see. Reviews of ‘Tortillas to Totems’: ‘Just because an adventurer travels through interesting places doesn’t necessarily mean the story will be compelling. I’ve read too many authors that can make a trip to the moon seem boring. But Tortillas to Totems is compelling, with a combination of diary, narrative and commentary that really makes the reader feel like you’re right there in front of the campfire with Sam, listening to the tales as the coyotes howl in the background. Sam and Birgit, his riding companion familiar to readers of his other books, are not Americans or North Americans. So it is very interesting to get their take on a land that I thought I knew.’ WebBikeWorld USA ‘

Those who already own Sam’s earlier books will doubtless want to add to them with this, whilst those who’re new to his work will find it a fine place to start.’ Trail Bike Magazine ‘

This is an engaging book from the first chapter to the epilogue. Written so beautifully you feel invited to share the highs, the lows, the joy and sadness and the overall human experience of wild travelling on a motorcycle…’ BMW Club ‘Sam has a wonderful way of story telling that enables you to put yourself as his riding partner and paints a vivid picture in your mind of where he is and what he’s seeing. The experiences come thick and fast…’ Honda XRV ‘

All we know is that Sam Manicom is the best adventure bike writer in the world… You could be his pillion, so well does he describe the sounds, sights and smells of the road. If you like bikes, riding and people watching, Sam is your man.’ Scottish Daily Record ‘

Sam Manicom’s appeal is that he’s the ordinary guy doing extraordinary things. He’s incredibly modest for someone who’s been so far, sometimes in the face of highly unfavourable odds… Great stories…’ RiDE Magazine ‘

Any good travel book must involve the reader as well as inspire and Tortillas to Totems does just that with vivid descriptions of the roads, places and people that Sam and his partner Birgit travelled and met. Sam is a natural storyteller going way beyond “we went here and did this…”, getting under the skin of each country he visits…’ TRD Magazine ‘

I enjoyed it from start to finish and would heartily recommend it.’ The Road Magazine

This is the fourth book in the series of 4 books. Into Africa, Under Asian Skies, Distant Suns & Tortillas to Totems. 8 years around the world. 6 continents. 4 books. 2 wheels.