For those of you hopping on your bike this summer, whether it’s a leisurely scenic tour or training for something more serious, you should check out this month’s nonfiction pick The Happiness of Pursuit by celebrated Tour De France veteran and Olympic medalist Davis Phinney. Despite being an elite athlete for two decades, Davis felt for years that something was not quite right. He was finally diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s, and his body, once an ally, became a prison. While Davis’s cycling career was coming to a close, however, his son Taylor’s was beginning to flourish. Determined to overcome his setbacks, Davis eventually became well enough to watch his son compete in the Beijing Olympics. A humorous and graceful chronicle of Davis’ career, his battle with Parkinson’s, and his relationship with Taylor, The Happiness of Pursuit is an inspirational read for anyone who’s ever had a hurdle to overcome.

Purchase the book.
Download the discussion guide.
Visit Davis Phinney’s website or follow him on Twitter.

In Dean Bakopoulus’ latest novel, My American Unhappiness, Zeke—widowed, adoptive dad to his dead brother’s twin daughters, director of a humanities nonprofit in the republican Midwest—asks “Why are you so unhappy?” and then attempts to answer this simple yet vital question through a series of unconventional experiences.

Invite Dean to join your group in person, on the phone, or on Skype.
Purchase the book.
Download the reading group guide (link tk).

Check out Dean on the web by visiting his website, liking him on Facebook, or following him on Twitter!