Assessment:

Plot/Idea: Old Bones is an entertaining tale/travel journal chronicling the author's 15-day cycling trip around Lake Michigan. It features detailed, day-by-day descriptions full of humor, heart, and hardships--but most importantly, a love of cycling, the outdoors, and a thirst for adventure.

Prose: McShea's prose is engaging and full of heart; while his daily descriptions of his journey are as exhilarating as they are entertaining. Additionally, McShea adds historical background and context to the places he goes and the people he sees that are touched with wonder and respect for the natural beauty he encounters. However, "Old Bones" is, at its heart, a beautifully written ode to Lake Michigan, the UP, and all the people and places that make the area so special.

Originality: While travelogues are ubiquitous in both print and online blogging/social media, etc. what sets certain tales apart is when an author's perspective is not solely for entertainment, but reflects a genuine love and respect for the people and places they encounter. And McShea does evoke these feelings beautifully, while also balancing a sense of adventure and joy.

Character/Execution: The main character in "Old Bones" is undoubtedly McShea's natural surroundings and he does a wonderful job of capturing both the distinctive beauty and the sometimes grim reality of his journey. Additionally, his first-person narrative is focused as well as entertaining, while the people he meets are more than just placeholders, they are (overall) enigmatic, kind, and most importantly, real.

Date Submitted: October 04, 2024