National Network for Equitable Library Service

An honest memoir that deconstructs an evolving father-son relationship, uncovers the struggles in becoming one of Canada's most respected adventure cyclists and the dramatic impact of a recent cancer diagnosis. In the summer of 1996, a father and his 13-year-old son embarked on a 3400 kilometre bicycle tour across Canada. Affectionately known as "Manhood Training," this unique bonding experience became the inspiration for Ryan Correy to break away from convention and turn a passion for cycling into his purpose in life. The world's most extreme cycling challenges serve as an evolving proving ground for the young rider - including self-doubt on a solo tour to Arizona after high school, falling asleep and crashing into a cemetery gate on the gruelling Race Across America ("The toughest sporting event in the world"), murder and robbery along the Pan American Highway ("The longest road in the world"), a near mountaintop helicopter rescue while traversing the infamous Tour Divide ("The longest mountain bike race in the world"), cashing in after being hit by a car in California, hallucinations and foot-crippling pain on a six-day, 20-hour stationary-cycling world record attempt, and plenty more. With a new afterword by the author detailing his move to Western Canada, eventual marriage and more recent colon cancer diagnosis, A Purpose Ridden is a riveting and emotional memoir that will appeal to cyclists and non-cyclists alike.