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Op pad met Sigrid
Toen Travis Nelson en zijn vrouw voor een nieuwe baan vanuit Californië naar Londen verhuisden, verwachtten ze een nieuw leven te kunnen opbouwen. Maar toen sloeg corona toe. Travis verloor zijn baan en zat door de verschillende lockdowns bijna twee jaar lang gevangen in een voor hem onbekende stad.
Om zichzelf bezig te houden besloot Travis zijn nieuwe woonomgeving te gaan verkennen. Hij kocht een fiets en verkende de straten en parken van Londen, al snel samen met een verrassende metgezel: Sigrid, zijn dove Noorse boskat. Wat begon als een manier om wat te doen te hebben, werd al snel een internetsensatie. Travis’ video’s van zijn ritjes met Sigrid werden hét symbool voor mensen op zoek naar vreugde in onzekere tijden.
Om zichzelf bezig te houden besloot Travis zijn nieuwe woonomgeving te gaan verkennen. Hij kocht een fiets en verkende de straten en parken van Londen, al snel samen met een verrassende metgezel: Sigrid, zijn dove Noorse boskat. Wat begon als een manier om wat te doen te hebben, werd al snel een internetsensatie. Travis’ video’s van zijn ritjes met Sigrid werden hét symbool voor mensen op zoek naar vreugde in onzekere tijden.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2023
28 people are currently reading
294 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 16, 2023
Really heart felt and warm book about sigrid the deaf cat travelling around London on her owner's Travis bicycle
July 11, 2023
I bought this book for Sigrid, but as it turns out, her human Travis has a very compelling life story to share. His account of growing up in the sticks, coming from a family that neither provided nor expected much in the way of an education or career, and yet becoming a self-taught programmer as a teen during the earliest days of the internet, then progressing to a self-made software engineer at the height of the dot.com boom in Silicon Valley was FASCINATING.
Travis does not shy away from openly sharing his mental health struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Everything he writes rings true.There is no doubt by the end of this book that our pets can have a tremendous impact on our mental and physical health and overall well-being.
There are many cute anecdotes of Sigrid or "Sigi" and her bike rides, as well as detailed accounts of the many London routes travelled and people encountered, but I have to admit I found myself thinking "wouldn't it be more fun to simply watch these videos instead of just reading about them?"
However! I went back and watched some older Tik Toks from 2022, and I found myself getting super excited to spot people like Zombie Punk who were mentioned in the book. So if you've been following Sigi from day 1, you may have a similar fangirling reaction.
If you are an Anglophile or a fixed gear cycling enthusiast, there is also much here to enjoy.
Overall I give this book 4 stars. It was a delight to get to know the very personal story behind this unique social media personality and the beautiful, loving bond he shares with Sigrid.
Travis does not shy away from openly sharing his mental health struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. Everything he writes rings true.There is no doubt by the end of this book that our pets can have a tremendous impact on our mental and physical health and overall well-being.
There are many cute anecdotes of Sigrid or "Sigi" and her bike rides, as well as detailed accounts of the many London routes travelled and people encountered, but I have to admit I found myself thinking "wouldn't it be more fun to simply watch these videos instead of just reading about them?"
However! I went back and watched some older Tik Toks from 2022, and I found myself getting super excited to spot people like Zombie Punk who were mentioned in the book. So if you've been following Sigi from day 1, you may have a similar fangirling reaction.
If you are an Anglophile or a fixed gear cycling enthusiast, there is also much here to enjoy.
Overall I give this book 4 stars. It was a delight to get to know the very personal story behind this unique social media personality and the beautiful, loving bond he shares with Sigrid.
July 28, 2023
I will admit to naturally being more of a dog person but having said that I do like cats and this appealed straight away. The beginning of the book tells about Travis’ early years and family issues. It wasn’t an easy life and he had to work hard for every opportunity, teaching himself programming in his parent’s attic room. This led to various opportunities in Silicon Valley until the dot.com bubble burst.
A job offer from an old colleague led him and his wife Bianca together with his two cats Ylva and Sigrid from the US to London and life was good until Covid, furlough and then redundancy struck. Travis is honest about his mental health and history of depression and it was so saddening to read of the effect that this had on his and his family’s life – immigration and financial worries being an additional concern.
I loved reading about his cycling adventures and explorations with Sigrid, his deaf Norwegian Forest cat. (I wasn’t aware that cats with blue eyes are more prone to deafness). Sigi’s personality shone through in the writing, as did Travis’ love for his cycling companion. The book documents their life together through lockdowns, making travel for Sigi safe and comfortable and how he was able to use the growing social media attention to highlight causes close to his heart, I especially enjoyed the recounting of the visit with Sigi to a deaf school. It was clear that money and self promotion wasn’t a driving factor but that more importantly getting out exploring with Sigi, improved his own mental health whilst people’s positive interactions when encountering Sigi in her bicycle basket seemed to brighten their day too. For those wondering whether Sigi also enjoyed these outings, it seemed from her body language that she did and it was clear that Travis’ concern for her welfare was such that he wouldn’t be doing this if it caused her distress or harm. She lapped up the public attention – although her tolerance did not extend to dogs!
There were a few bits that went over my head – not being a cyclist, the detail about fixed gear and road bikes didn’t mean a great deal to me although this would no doubt be of interest to others. I was there mainly for the ride, and was entranced by the pair’s adventures whilst cycling around London and beyond. After reading the book I followed Sigi and Travis on their social media platforms and there are many videos to enjoy. The book is written in an engaging and conversational way and is such an enjoyable read.
Recommended for cycle fans, cat lovers and well, just anyone who loves an uplifting personal story.
A job offer from an old colleague led him and his wife Bianca together with his two cats Ylva and Sigrid from the US to London and life was good until Covid, furlough and then redundancy struck. Travis is honest about his mental health and history of depression and it was so saddening to read of the effect that this had on his and his family’s life – immigration and financial worries being an additional concern.
I loved reading about his cycling adventures and explorations with Sigrid, his deaf Norwegian Forest cat. (I wasn’t aware that cats with blue eyes are more prone to deafness). Sigi’s personality shone through in the writing, as did Travis’ love for his cycling companion. The book documents their life together through lockdowns, making travel for Sigi safe and comfortable and how he was able to use the growing social media attention to highlight causes close to his heart, I especially enjoyed the recounting of the visit with Sigi to a deaf school. It was clear that money and self promotion wasn’t a driving factor but that more importantly getting out exploring with Sigi, improved his own mental health whilst people’s positive interactions when encountering Sigi in her bicycle basket seemed to brighten their day too. For those wondering whether Sigi also enjoyed these outings, it seemed from her body language that she did and it was clear that Travis’ concern for her welfare was such that he wouldn’t be doing this if it caused her distress or harm. She lapped up the public attention – although her tolerance did not extend to dogs!
There were a few bits that went over my head – not being a cyclist, the detail about fixed gear and road bikes didn’t mean a great deal to me although this would no doubt be of interest to others. I was there mainly for the ride, and was entranced by the pair’s adventures whilst cycling around London and beyond. After reading the book I followed Sigi and Travis on their social media platforms and there are many videos to enjoy. The book is written in an engaging and conversational way and is such an enjoyable read.
Recommended for cycle fans, cat lovers and well, just anyone who loves an uplifting personal story.
August 29, 2025
Oh the cuteness!
July 26, 2023
When I first saw this book I didn’t follow Sigi and her human Travis, in fact I’d never heard of their adventures, but being a huge cat lover I knew this would be a book for me. I mean, just look at that beautiful cover!
I very soon became captivated by their story. I enjoyed reading Travis’ tale and discovering how a man from the Pacific Northwest had ended up in London with his wife and two gorgeous cats. How he then started cycling round with his Norwegian Forest cat, Sigi and how they quickly became an internet sensation.
I have two indoor cats and I often feel maybe they are missing out by not going outside, but I know I could never get a lead on them, never mind, get them on a bike! Much of it sounded so unbelievable, I thought it must be made up. A cat enjoying walking round London on a lead? A cat enjoying sitting in a bike basket riding through traffic? A cat enjoying going on a cable car over the Thames? A cat wearing googles? I couldn’t believe it.
About halfway through the book I decided to go and look at Travis and Sigi’s Instagram account. The happiness on Sigi’s face as she takes in the sights is so obvious to see.
I loved checking through the old posts and finding clips that are mentioned in the book. Sigi’s first ride, when she almost catches a pigeon, visiting Olympic park. It made everything in the book really come to life.
This is a beautiful and inspiring story and is perfect for old and new fans of Travis and Sigi! I’m so glad I found them and I’m really looking forward to watching their continuing adventure.
I very soon became captivated by their story. I enjoyed reading Travis’ tale and discovering how a man from the Pacific Northwest had ended up in London with his wife and two gorgeous cats. How he then started cycling round with his Norwegian Forest cat, Sigi and how they quickly became an internet sensation.
I have two indoor cats and I often feel maybe they are missing out by not going outside, but I know I could never get a lead on them, never mind, get them on a bike! Much of it sounded so unbelievable, I thought it must be made up. A cat enjoying walking round London on a lead? A cat enjoying sitting in a bike basket riding through traffic? A cat enjoying going on a cable car over the Thames? A cat wearing googles? I couldn’t believe it.
About halfway through the book I decided to go and look at Travis and Sigi’s Instagram account. The happiness on Sigi’s face as she takes in the sights is so obvious to see.
I loved checking through the old posts and finding clips that are mentioned in the book. Sigi’s first ride, when she almost catches a pigeon, visiting Olympic park. It made everything in the book really come to life.
This is a beautiful and inspiring story and is perfect for old and new fans of Travis and Sigi! I’m so glad I found them and I’m really looking forward to watching their continuing adventure.
August 9, 2023
Oh, who can resist a book that has such a gorgeous cat on the cover!?
Ok, I admit to being a little drawn in by the beautiful cover, but on reading the blurb I realised that I'd actually heard about Sigrid and Travis a while ago and so now wanted to know more.
When Travis uprooted his family to come to London for a new job, he was looking forward to a new and exciting life....then the pandemic hit and not only did his job offer disappear, they were all also stuck in multiple lockdowns.
To deal with this situation positively, Travis took his deaf Norwegian Forest cat, Sigrid, on his daily bike rides around London.
What started as Travis just documenting his exploration of his new city, soon became an internet sensation as everyone wanted to know what Sigrid was getting up to next.
I remember seeing a news report about Travis and Sigrid over lockdown but hadn't realised how their popularity had grown so this book was fascinating to read.
There was a fair bit of background in the book too, but I loved hearing how the daily rides and the companionship with Sigrid really helped to get Travis through a difficult situation.
This, along with the massive following and sense of community that came with his documenting their adventures.
We've owned a fair few cats over the years and currently live with our 3 kitties who joined us over the first lockdown. So I totally agree that they can bring us so much joy and pull us out of difficult times in our lives.
A delightful book with a real feel-good vibe. I've obviously also raced over to follow future adventures.
Ok, I admit to being a little drawn in by the beautiful cover, but on reading the blurb I realised that I'd actually heard about Sigrid and Travis a while ago and so now wanted to know more.
When Travis uprooted his family to come to London for a new job, he was looking forward to a new and exciting life....then the pandemic hit and not only did his job offer disappear, they were all also stuck in multiple lockdowns.
To deal with this situation positively, Travis took his deaf Norwegian Forest cat, Sigrid, on his daily bike rides around London.
What started as Travis just documenting his exploration of his new city, soon became an internet sensation as everyone wanted to know what Sigrid was getting up to next.
I remember seeing a news report about Travis and Sigrid over lockdown but hadn't realised how their popularity had grown so this book was fascinating to read.
There was a fair bit of background in the book too, but I loved hearing how the daily rides and the companionship with Sigrid really helped to get Travis through a difficult situation.
This, along with the massive following and sense of community that came with his documenting their adventures.
We've owned a fair few cats over the years and currently live with our 3 kitties who joined us over the first lockdown. So I totally agree that they can bring us so much joy and pull us out of difficult times in our lives.
A delightful book with a real feel-good vibe. I've obviously also raced over to follow future adventures.
August 2, 2023
I picked this book on a whim. But as I like memoirs and have read A Street Cat Named Bob and thought I would give this a try; and I'm glad I did.
Travis relocates to the UK. with his wife and their two cats. Though he loves both cats Sigrid picks him as her favourite and they form a unique friendship. As I said Travis relocated to help form a startup company; but his plans are thrown into disarray when covid hits and he loses his job. This sends Travis into a spiral of depression and his salvation is his deaf Norwegian Forrest cat named Sigrid.
This book is a delightful read and shows the unconditional love from our pets and how they can help us in our darkest times. Though Sigrid is the star of the book I was also intrigued by the story that Travis had to tell about himself. The book was an easy read and had some tongue in the cheek humour.Altogether a delightful read that should appeal to readers of memoirs, books about animals and feel good reads.
Travis relocates to the UK. with his wife and their two cats. Though he loves both cats Sigrid picks him as her favourite and they form a unique friendship. As I said Travis relocated to help form a startup company; but his plans are thrown into disarray when covid hits and he loses his job. This sends Travis into a spiral of depression and his salvation is his deaf Norwegian Forrest cat named Sigrid.
This book is a delightful read and shows the unconditional love from our pets and how they can help us in our darkest times. Though Sigrid is the star of the book I was also intrigued by the story that Travis had to tell about himself. The book was an easy read and had some tongue in the cheek humour.Altogether a delightful read that should appeal to readers of memoirs, books about animals and feel good reads.
August 18, 2023
This is one of those books that talks to your heart and can be appreciated by people of all ages, animal lovers and any type of reader
I loved the story, loved Travis and Sigrid and smiled a lot
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
I loved the story, loved Travis and Sigrid and smiled a lot
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
November 12, 2023
Travis neemt zijn kat Sigrid mee tijdens zijn dagelijkse ontdekkingstochten doorheen Londen en dit per fiets. Hun avonturen zijn razend populair op social media en hebben miljoenen volgers. Over hun gezamenlijke belevenissen is er nu een boek verschenen: Op pad met Sigrid. Als grote fan van Bob the streetcat was ik enorm benieuwd naar hun verhaal.
Travis en Bianca hebben twee katten, de Bengaalse Ylva en de dove Noorse boskat Sigrid. Wanneer Travis een nieuwe job aangeboden krijgt in Londen aarzelt het koppel geen seconde om de grote stap te nemen: ze verhuizen met hun twee katten van Amerika naar Europa. De eerste maanden verloopt alles op rolletjes maar dan komt de covid pandemie eraan en legt gans de wereld lam met lockdown periodes. Ook het bedrijf waar Travis voor werkt krijgt het moeilijk en hij verliest uiteindelijk ook zijn baan. Om de vele lockdowns en de lange dagen door te komen begint Travis dagelijks een fietsritje te maken samen met Sigrid. Al gauw worden zij beiden een sensatie op social media zoals Instagram en tiktok.
Op de cover van Op pad met Sigrid prijkt Sigrid met haar lange witte haren uiterst trots. Zij zou duidelijk de protagonist van het verhaal worden. Ook de korte inhoud laat dit blijken. Hierdoor was ik dan wat teleurgesteld toen de eerste honderd pagina’s van het slechts tweehonderdvijftig pagina’s tellende boek over Travis ging en dan nog eens hoofdzakelijk autobiografisch leek. Slechts enkele passages gingen over zijn Noorse boskat Sigrid en zijn andere kat Ylva. Hij vertelt over hoe hij opgroeide en hoe hij zonder diploma aan de slag ging in Silicon Valley. Dit is allemaal best wel interessant, maar niet echt wat het boek mij had beloofd te brengen. Het was dan ook moeilijk om mijn aandacht erbij te houden, want ik wilde weten hoe het Sigrid verging. Pas na de eerste helft begon het boeiend te worden, vanaf dan werd ik meegenomen in hun dagelijkse tochten doorheen Londen.
Een ander element wat mij inhoudelijk wat verraste, en menig kattenmama en-papa zal dit waarschijnlijk kunnen beamen, waar blijft Ylva in dit verhaal? Katteneigenaars met twee of meerdere katten, die actief zijn op social media en die bovendien veel volgers hebben, zetten steeds hun beide pluizenbollen in de schijnwerpers, bijvoorbeeld Veronique Puts, Shorty en Kodi, … . Als je twee beestjes hebt verdienen ze beiden evenveel aandacht en liefde. Het is niet omdat één van beide speciale noden heeft dat de andere daardoor vergeten mag worden.
Vanaf de tweede helft begon het verhaal mij meer te boeien. De auteur heeft een leuke, hippe maar ook beeldende schrijfstijl. Hierdoor is het boek toegankelijk voor heel wat lezers, zowel jong als oud. Dierenliefhebbers zullen het zeker beamen dat dieren ons kunnen helpen om moeilijke periodes te overwinnen en dit wordt in Op pad met Sigrid mooi in beeld gebracht. Tijdens het lezen werd ik wel nieuwsgierig naar de vele filmpjes op Instagram en het bleek een leuke aanvulling op het boek om tijdens het lezen af en toe de bijbehorende filmpjes te bekijken. Het was hartverwarmend te lezen hoe mensen in tijden van lockdown reageerden op Travis en Sigrid. Men was dan eenzaam en had nood aan wat interactie. Doch had ik geen Bob the streetcat gevoel, waarbij Bob volledig in de schijnwerpers stond.
Dit is een leuke feelgood, maar het had voor mij nog meer over Ylva en Sigrid mogen gaan, in plaats van Travis. Hoewel het verhaal mij iets minder boeide, heeft deze auteur wel een fijne innemende schrijfstijl. Daarom dan toch nog een 3 sterren.
Travis en Bianca hebben twee katten, de Bengaalse Ylva en de dove Noorse boskat Sigrid. Wanneer Travis een nieuwe job aangeboden krijgt in Londen aarzelt het koppel geen seconde om de grote stap te nemen: ze verhuizen met hun twee katten van Amerika naar Europa. De eerste maanden verloopt alles op rolletjes maar dan komt de covid pandemie eraan en legt gans de wereld lam met lockdown periodes. Ook het bedrijf waar Travis voor werkt krijgt het moeilijk en hij verliest uiteindelijk ook zijn baan. Om de vele lockdowns en de lange dagen door te komen begint Travis dagelijks een fietsritje te maken samen met Sigrid. Al gauw worden zij beiden een sensatie op social media zoals Instagram en tiktok.
Op de cover van Op pad met Sigrid prijkt Sigrid met haar lange witte haren uiterst trots. Zij zou duidelijk de protagonist van het verhaal worden. Ook de korte inhoud laat dit blijken. Hierdoor was ik dan wat teleurgesteld toen de eerste honderd pagina’s van het slechts tweehonderdvijftig pagina’s tellende boek over Travis ging en dan nog eens hoofdzakelijk autobiografisch leek. Slechts enkele passages gingen over zijn Noorse boskat Sigrid en zijn andere kat Ylva. Hij vertelt over hoe hij opgroeide en hoe hij zonder diploma aan de slag ging in Silicon Valley. Dit is allemaal best wel interessant, maar niet echt wat het boek mij had beloofd te brengen. Het was dan ook moeilijk om mijn aandacht erbij te houden, want ik wilde weten hoe het Sigrid verging. Pas na de eerste helft begon het boeiend te worden, vanaf dan werd ik meegenomen in hun dagelijkse tochten doorheen Londen.
Een ander element wat mij inhoudelijk wat verraste, en menig kattenmama en-papa zal dit waarschijnlijk kunnen beamen, waar blijft Ylva in dit verhaal? Katteneigenaars met twee of meerdere katten, die actief zijn op social media en die bovendien veel volgers hebben, zetten steeds hun beide pluizenbollen in de schijnwerpers, bijvoorbeeld Veronique Puts, Shorty en Kodi, … . Als je twee beestjes hebt verdienen ze beiden evenveel aandacht en liefde. Het is niet omdat één van beide speciale noden heeft dat de andere daardoor vergeten mag worden.
Vanaf de tweede helft begon het verhaal mij meer te boeien. De auteur heeft een leuke, hippe maar ook beeldende schrijfstijl. Hierdoor is het boek toegankelijk voor heel wat lezers, zowel jong als oud. Dierenliefhebbers zullen het zeker beamen dat dieren ons kunnen helpen om moeilijke periodes te overwinnen en dit wordt in Op pad met Sigrid mooi in beeld gebracht. Tijdens het lezen werd ik wel nieuwsgierig naar de vele filmpjes op Instagram en het bleek een leuke aanvulling op het boek om tijdens het lezen af en toe de bijbehorende filmpjes te bekijken. Het was hartverwarmend te lezen hoe mensen in tijden van lockdown reageerden op Travis en Sigrid. Men was dan eenzaam en had nood aan wat interactie. Doch had ik geen Bob the streetcat gevoel, waarbij Bob volledig in de schijnwerpers stond.
Dit is een leuke feelgood, maar het had voor mij nog meer over Ylva en Sigrid mogen gaan, in plaats van Travis. Hoewel het verhaal mij iets minder boeide, heeft deze auteur wel een fijne innemende schrijfstijl. Daarom dan toch nog een 3 sterren.
June 9, 2024
Op pad met Sigrid is een biografie/autobiografie geschreven door Travis Nelson. Het boek gaat over Sigrid de kat en Travis, zijn baasje. Wanneer Travis en zijn vrouw verhuisden van Californië naar Londen, sloeg corona toe. Travis verteld in het boek over hoe hij hierdoor zijn baan verloor en besloot om met Sigrid op pad te trekken. Ik vond dit boek meestal aangenaam om te lezen. In de eerste helft van het boek verteld Travis vooral over zijn werk. Hij gaat over alle fases in zijn leven die ervoor hebben gezorgd dat hij een gamedesigner werd, maar soms iets teveel. Vele hoofdstukken gaan over zijn job, en omdat hij werkt als designer komen er veel moeilijke woorden in voor. In dit boek worden er ook veel stadsnamen gebruikt, dit is alleen een goede toevoeging als je iets weet van steden in Amerika en Engeland of als je er woont. Deze namen worden gebruikt om de kijker een duidelijker beeld te geven van waar ze zich situeren, maar als je zoals ik er niets over weet creëert het minder duidelijkheid. Ik koos dit boek omdat ik het graag biografieën lees, en verhalen over dieren vind ik ook zeer interessant. Toen ik begon te lezen was ik heel geïnteresseerd en wou ik graag verder lezen, maar in het midden van het boek zwakte het af. Travis vertelde veel over zichzelf, zijn job en corona. Rond pagina 99 begon het boek me weer te interesseren. Vanaf dit hoofstuk begonnen Travis en Sigrid meer en meer te fietsen door Londen, hij nam ons mee op zijn trips en vertelde meer over hoe Sigrid en hij bekend werden. Ik vond het boek zeer fijn om te lezen en raad het zeker aan aan liefhebbers van dieren, sociale media en fietsen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2023
Sigrid is absolutely beautiful and quite the little diva isn't she?
Nelson takes us a candid journey through his humble upbringing in the states and charters us through his battles with employment, mental health, the Covid pandemic and the joys of being an ex pat of the USA living in London.
Rekindling his love for cycling, Nelson decides it's time to introduce Sigrid to the delights of London - pigeons, Picadilly Circus and the Olympic Park to name but a few.
Their story is inspirational, enjoyable and there's never a dull moment with Sigrid
Nelson takes us a candid journey through his humble upbringing in the states and charters us through his battles with employment, mental health, the Covid pandemic and the joys of being an ex pat of the USA living in London.
Rekindling his love for cycling, Nelson decides it's time to introduce Sigrid to the delights of London - pigeons, Picadilly Circus and the Olympic Park to name but a few.
Their story is inspirational, enjoyable and there's never a dull moment with Sigrid
July 20, 2023
For me to really enjoy a memoir, the author needs to have a compelling story, even if they tell it in a mediocre way – OR – if they have a mediocre story, they need to be able to tell it in a compelling way. In this instance, the author has both a compelling story, and it’s told in a compelling way – so this memoir was a hit for me.
I’ve been following Travis and Sigrid on Instagram (and later FB) for well over a year. I’ve always been curious what their backstory was, so this memoir gave a lot of insight into how they got where they are today. And what an awesome story it is. I appreciated Travis’ honesty in sharing details about his humble upbringing, his challenges with mental health, his frustration with the often-toxic corporate world, his general feelings of inadequacy and doubt, and the many negative ways his life (and our world) changed due to the Covid pandemic. It was all so very relatable. What was also relatable was how immeasurably his pets impacted his life, even if it didn’t seem so obvious to him at first. I truly believe in the healing power of animals, and both Sigrid and Ylva have surely worked their magic on Travis. I know that every day I open Instagram, I always smile when I see Travis has uploaded a new video or pic. Travis & Sigi – spreading joy, one bike ride at a time 😊
I enjoyed getting a look into the life of a U.S. ex-pat living in London, and the ways in which Travis and his wife have found their second family there. It was fun to read about some of the things I’d already seen him post about on social media (like visiting the deaf school), and to read the evolution of Sigi’s baskets, goggles, and harnesses. I enjoyed seeing other ‘famous’ cats I follow on social media appear in the story and read about how they influenced Travis in different ways – such as Dean and Nala (@1bike1world), Gary the Cat (@greatgramsofgary) and Street Cat Bob and James. I was also glad to finally learn what Travis’ Instagram handle means, how Sigrid got her name, and why Travis wanted a Norwegian Forest Cat in the first place.
It was amusing that this memoir is written in British English dialect and spelling, because although Travis lives in London, his videos and written posts are usually in American English. But, since the book was published primarily for a UK market, it makes sense. It was still fun to read regardless.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to others who love the healing power of pets, or who just need an uplifting story. The only thing that could’ve made this book better is if there were a few pages of color photos, highlighting some of the specific instances mentioned in the story (like Sigi wearing the pink tutu, or when she was stuck up the tree). I was able to go back through their IG page and find some of them, but having the pics right there in the book would’ve been fun. Maybe for the sequel, if there is one? 😊
I’ve been following Travis and Sigrid on Instagram (and later FB) for well over a year. I’ve always been curious what their backstory was, so this memoir gave a lot of insight into how they got where they are today. And what an awesome story it is. I appreciated Travis’ honesty in sharing details about his humble upbringing, his challenges with mental health, his frustration with the often-toxic corporate world, his general feelings of inadequacy and doubt, and the many negative ways his life (and our world) changed due to the Covid pandemic. It was all so very relatable. What was also relatable was how immeasurably his pets impacted his life, even if it didn’t seem so obvious to him at first. I truly believe in the healing power of animals, and both Sigrid and Ylva have surely worked their magic on Travis. I know that every day I open Instagram, I always smile when I see Travis has uploaded a new video or pic. Travis & Sigi – spreading joy, one bike ride at a time 😊
I enjoyed getting a look into the life of a U.S. ex-pat living in London, and the ways in which Travis and his wife have found their second family there. It was fun to read about some of the things I’d already seen him post about on social media (like visiting the deaf school), and to read the evolution of Sigi’s baskets, goggles, and harnesses. I enjoyed seeing other ‘famous’ cats I follow on social media appear in the story and read about how they influenced Travis in different ways – such as Dean and Nala (@1bike1world), Gary the Cat (@greatgramsofgary) and Street Cat Bob and James. I was also glad to finally learn what Travis’ Instagram handle means, how Sigrid got her name, and why Travis wanted a Norwegian Forest Cat in the first place.
It was amusing that this memoir is written in British English dialect and spelling, because although Travis lives in London, his videos and written posts are usually in American English. But, since the book was published primarily for a UK market, it makes sense. It was still fun to read regardless.
Overall, I truly enjoyed this book and will be recommending it to others who love the healing power of pets, or who just need an uplifting story. The only thing that could’ve made this book better is if there were a few pages of color photos, highlighting some of the specific instances mentioned in the story (like Sigi wearing the pink tutu, or when she was stuck up the tree). I was able to go back through their IG page and find some of them, but having the pics right there in the book would’ve been fun. Maybe for the sequel, if there is one? 😊
July 25, 2023
I’m a total sucker for anything involving cats so I knew I had to read this. Subtitled “The Story of an Extraordinary Friendship and An Adventure on Two Wheels” which says it all. This is a memoir about Travis Nelson, his wife and two cats, Sigrid and Ylva, who relocate to London with his job in IT but their dreams are shattered when Covid 19 strikes. I was unaware of the social media presence of Travis and Sigi so it was all new to me. Well written, although I would mention that it is more about Travis than Sigi. Detailing his early life, jobs, meeting his wife to be and their move to London alongside a lot of detail about fixed gear cycling (I had to google that).
Briefly, Sigrid was always Travis’s cat and when Travis lost his job during lockdown he started cycling around London for his mental and physical health. He soon realised that Sigi wanted to go with him and he began filming their journeys and posting them on social media. It wasn’t long before they were being recognised and their social media numbers start to soar!
Travis’s journey from little formal education to software engineer who wrote programs that made his employer millions was inspiring but it was shocking how he was treated so badly. He is brutally honest about his struggles with his mental health and the effect that lockdown had on this. But also the positive impact of being with Sigi. This is quick and compelling read that I finished in one sitting, honest, open and heartwarming I fell hopelessly in love with beautiful Sigi.
Briefly, Sigrid was always Travis’s cat and when Travis lost his job during lockdown he started cycling around London for his mental and physical health. He soon realised that Sigi wanted to go with him and he began filming their journeys and posting them on social media. It wasn’t long before they were being recognised and their social media numbers start to soar!
Travis’s journey from little formal education to software engineer who wrote programs that made his employer millions was inspiring but it was shocking how he was treated so badly. He is brutally honest about his struggles with his mental health and the effect that lockdown had on this. But also the positive impact of being with Sigi. This is quick and compelling read that I finished in one sitting, honest, open and heartwarming I fell hopelessly in love with beautiful Sigi.
August 30, 2024
This is the story of Travis and his Norvegian Forest cat Sigrid ('Sigi' for the friends and fans).Travis, his wife Bianca and their cats Sigi and Ylva (a Bengal cat) moved from San Fransisco to London to start new careers and new lived, but then covid hit and Travis lost his job.
I liked the story of their cycling adventures and the people they met on their trips. Travis seems to be a very down to earth person, although sometimes the story goes back and forth and all over the places. Sigi is a lovely personality and wonderful cat and she just steels everyone's heart she meets, but she's also a great help for Travis. As he struggles with mental health issues and depression, she becomes his therapy assistant animal to help him with the more difficult times.
The only thing that annoyed me a bit, is that Travis talks more at times about himself. I would've love to know more about Sigi, Ylva (who stayed at home, because she's really nervous) and about Bianca, Travis' wife.
The plus point is that Travies mentioned James Bowen (from 'A street cat named Bob') and Dean Nicholson ('One man, his rescued cat and a bike ride around the globe').
I liked the story of their cycling adventures and the people they met on their trips. Travis seems to be a very down to earth person, although sometimes the story goes back and forth and all over the places. Sigi is a lovely personality and wonderful cat and she just steels everyone's heart she meets, but she's also a great help for Travis. As he struggles with mental health issues and depression, she becomes his therapy assistant animal to help him with the more difficult times.
The only thing that annoyed me a bit, is that Travis talks more at times about himself. I would've love to know more about Sigi, Ylva (who stayed at home, because she's really nervous) and about Bianca, Travis' wife.
The plus point is that Travies mentioned James Bowen (from 'A street cat named Bob') and Dean Nicholson ('One man, his rescued cat and a bike ride around the globe').
July 27, 2023
I just have to say that I fell in love with this book, even before I read the blurb, after all who wouldn't with a little cutie little Sigrid. We get to meet Travis Nelson and his beloved cat Sigrid. Travis had moved from California with his wife and Sigrid, in a hope to start a new life but not everything went to plan. Covid-19 hit the world and everyone around us. That's when we got to meet Travis and Sigrid, Sigrid is not just any cat, Sigrid is a Norwegian Forest cat, but with one thing different to others, Sigrid is deaf (which I found added more cuteness to him). Travis decided to start making videos and posting them on social media. Just a cat and his best friend traveling around London streets and parks on a bike. We go on this journey and see London through the eyes of a cyclist. It showed you the trust Sigrid has in Travis, but also how Sigrid helped Travis during, what was a hard time for everyone. I've been a follower of Travis and Sigrid since coming across then on YouTube. This is a lovely book for everyone.
November 16, 2023
I've been a big fan of Sigrid on social media for a long time so I was excited to hear her owner, Travis, had written a book about their adventures together.
But this isn't just a story of Sigrid, it's also a story of Travis' difficult past and how Sigrid has changed every aspect of his life. I related so deeply to Travis' strained relationship with his family, his struggles with mental health, his search for happiness externally, and of ultimately finding his truest happiness with a bike, a cat, a group of great friends, and a sense of purpose and belonging. He wears his heart on his sleeve here.
I also really enjoyed learning more about the Queen herself. (Speaking of Sigrid, of course, not the monarch.) The many anecdotes of Sigi showing her vibrant personality made me so happy and shed some fresh light on everybody's favorite bicycling cat.
There were some really basic editing mistakes throughout, but I'm going with four stars anyway because the story more than makes up for it. I loved this book.
But this isn't just a story of Sigrid, it's also a story of Travis' difficult past and how Sigrid has changed every aspect of his life. I related so deeply to Travis' strained relationship with his family, his struggles with mental health, his search for happiness externally, and of ultimately finding his truest happiness with a bike, a cat, a group of great friends, and a sense of purpose and belonging. He wears his heart on his sleeve here.
I also really enjoyed learning more about the Queen herself. (Speaking of Sigrid, of course, not the monarch.) The many anecdotes of Sigi showing her vibrant personality made me so happy and shed some fresh light on everybody's favorite bicycling cat.
There were some really basic editing mistakes throughout, but I'm going with four stars anyway because the story more than makes up for it. I loved this book.
December 11, 2023
Travis Nelson's book begins as a light-hearted look at how a cat enjoys riding with Nelson on his bicycle, but then evolves into a deeper look at depression. It also is a memoir of how to become an "influencer" (I'm not a fan of that word) on TikTok and other media platforms.
Travis rode around London with his cat in his bike basket after being laid off from his job. He began drawing attention and making friends all while the pandemic raged on. I think Covid added to his depression issues; being mandated to lockdown at home with no real connection with others had to be tough. To deal with depression had to make it worse.
He was married, but there's not a lot in there about his wife other than she did try to join him in his bicycle riding.
As animal-human books go, this is a decent one. Nelson's enthusiasm for his cat, the bicycle riding, the dealing with depression and the various causes he becomes involved with is nice.
Travis rode around London with his cat in his bike basket after being laid off from his job. He began drawing attention and making friends all while the pandemic raged on. I think Covid added to his depression issues; being mandated to lockdown at home with no real connection with others had to be tough. To deal with depression had to make it worse.
He was married, but there's not a lot in there about his wife other than she did try to join him in his bicycle riding.
As animal-human books go, this is a decent one. Nelson's enthusiasm for his cat, the bicycle riding, the dealing with depression and the various causes he becomes involved with is nice.
June 11, 2025
I picked this book up as I love cats and have read a couple of other non-fiction books that are similar to this one.
The details/story of Travis's background and his battle with depression are both sad and inspirational, and the relationship between Sigi and him is heartwarming. There are various protests and groups highlighted throughout the book, which were interesting to read about too.
However, whilst I was aware that the book is based on Travis and Sigi cycling adventures through the Covid-19 pandemic, the book is a little too heavy on the cycling theme and information throughout, for me personally. Cycling enthusiasts would enjoy this book. Whilst I enjoyed reading about Sigi in particular unfortunately this book doesn't quite have the same impact as other books such as 'A Street Cat Named Bob' By James Bowen, or 'Nalas World' By Dean Nicholson.
All in all an average and okay read but not something I'd read again.
The details/story of Travis's background and his battle with depression are both sad and inspirational, and the relationship between Sigi and him is heartwarming. There are various protests and groups highlighted throughout the book, which were interesting to read about too.
However, whilst I was aware that the book is based on Travis and Sigi cycling adventures through the Covid-19 pandemic, the book is a little too heavy on the cycling theme and information throughout, for me personally. Cycling enthusiasts would enjoy this book. Whilst I enjoyed reading about Sigi in particular unfortunately this book doesn't quite have the same impact as other books such as 'A Street Cat Named Bob' By James Bowen, or 'Nalas World' By Dean Nicholson.
All in all an average and okay read but not something I'd read again.
November 2, 2025
I don't read a lot of nonfiction, but when I found this book on the shelf I knew I had to give it a shot. I love seeing Travis and Sigrid cross my facebook feed, and the chance to learn more about how their journey began was one that I couldn't pass up. And it was more than worth the time; this was a window into a time (the pandemic) that I have only hazy memories of, and certainly not from a UK perspective. More unexpectedly, what it also turned out to be was the story of a struggle with depression and suicidal thoughts that felt all too familiar to me. It was great to read the story of how Sigrid's initial forays into the outside world became bigger and better, and how they helped not only Travis but the people around them through difficult times. It offered a whole new look at the videos I've seen, and an eagerness to see more. Well worth a read for animal lovers, their followers on social media, and anyone who wants to read a story of perseverance.
February 18, 2024
An enjoyable read about a man and his cat who ride around London on his bicycle. For some reason I had never come across this duo on social media. It lacked a little charm compared to Street Cat Named Bob and the different personalities of the two cats were quite marked. Sigrid was a beautiful princess with the most gorgeous blue eyes and stole the show wherever they went but I felt it was Travis we got to know much more than the cat which may be understandable as he did write it. He had a hard start in life and had issues leaving him a bit edgy and chippy I felt though that may be due to insecurity. I was touched when the deaf cat went to meet the children at a school for the deaf. I hope to bump into Sigrid sometime to give her a pet. Travis went up in my estimation when I saw he had dedicated the book to his stay at home cat Ylva so she didn't feel left out.
August 3, 2023
I was drawn to this book as soon as I read the blurb. There was just something about it that told me it was going to be a great adventure. I am so glad I took the leap and gave this book a go. It was lovely to get to know Sigrid and the family. As they moved across the ocean, the life of Sigrid changed so much, including finding a window to guard from all the London cats having a prowl.
This book is such a great journey. It is all about growth, change, love and taking a leap to live life. You enjoy the happiness and love through the challenges, as the two have their adventures through the city of cities.
If you are in the mood for something light, with a hint of a much deeper feel, then this is a great book for you!
This book is such a great journey. It is all about growth, change, love and taking a leap to live life. You enjoy the happiness and love through the challenges, as the two have their adventures through the city of cities.
If you are in the mood for something light, with a hint of a much deeper feel, then this is a great book for you!
August 4, 2023
Amazing!
I was hesitant to ready this book. I'm more of a fiction/fantasy person, rather than real life. Plus, I follow Travis and Sigrid on TikTok, but how was Sigird going to come across in a book? The answer, rather well! Travis does an amazing job of telling his and Sigrid's story. I cried many times, throughout the book, but also laughed and smiled. The origins of their journey together is great. It gave me a new appreciation for the videos and what goes on with them. If you want to learn more about Travis and Sigrid, this I'd an excellent book! It was an easy read, but touched me with my love for animals and my own dealings with depression. Thank you Travis and Sigrid!!!
I was hesitant to ready this book. I'm more of a fiction/fantasy person, rather than real life. Plus, I follow Travis and Sigrid on TikTok, but how was Sigird going to come across in a book? The answer, rather well! Travis does an amazing job of telling his and Sigrid's story. I cried many times, throughout the book, but also laughed and smiled. The origins of their journey together is great. It gave me a new appreciation for the videos and what goes on with them. If you want to learn more about Travis and Sigrid, this I'd an excellent book! It was an easy read, but touched me with my love for animals and my own dealings with depression. Thank you Travis and Sigrid!!!
July 5, 2024
This was an easy, relatively quick read. I enjoyed it. However, I feel the title leads one to believe the story will be 100% about the beautiful Sigrid and her rides with human, Travis.
Instead this is a memoir of Travis' journey and his battle with changing employment situations, the pandemic and mental health issues.
The memoir is well written and I sympathized and empathized with his situation throughout. I turned each page as eagerly as Travis strove to find a way to overcome each life change and looked forward to each ride, new friend made, and new experience.
They have gained a new follower and fan!
(I worry about Travis in the future when Sigi crosses to Rainbow Bridge. As a fur parent, I know the pain he will feel.)
Instead this is a memoir of Travis' journey and his battle with changing employment situations, the pandemic and mental health issues.
The memoir is well written and I sympathized and empathized with his situation throughout. I turned each page as eagerly as Travis strove to find a way to overcome each life change and looked forward to each ride, new friend made, and new experience.
They have gained a new follower and fan!
(I worry about Travis in the future when Sigi crosses to Rainbow Bridge. As a fur parent, I know the pain he will feel.)
Read
April 16, 2025Sigrid Rides is a book all about Travis Nelson and his cat Sigrid, TikTok sensations known for their bicycle journeys around London. I was very interested in finding out how Travis got started doing TikToks with his cat, and this book provided a great backstory on how he came to London and the challenges around the pandemic, including his honest thoughts about mental health struggles he faced, and how Sigrid helped him deal with it. I loved finding out more about how they got started with cycling, and how quickly Sigrid became a bit of a celebrity. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone interested in the TikTok channel or in cats and/or cycling. It was a relatively short read but a great one!
September 1, 2023
I love the positive vibe this book gives off, truly inspirational - plus cats, which is always a winner.
Such a heartwarming story of companionship and how an animal can pull you out of the dark times. I'd love to meet them one day.
I did expect more cat capers. There was a lot about Travis pre-Sigi and general stuff - which is great given the message it portrays, but it was a surprise, as the blurb is completely focused around Sigi.
Overall, an enjoyable read and one that's made me want to follow their adventures.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Such a heartwarming story of companionship and how an animal can pull you out of the dark times. I'd love to meet them one day.
I did expect more cat capers. There was a lot about Travis pre-Sigi and general stuff - which is great given the message it portrays, but it was a surprise, as the blurb is completely focused around Sigi.
Overall, an enjoyable read and one that's made me want to follow their adventures.
*I received a complimentary copy of the book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 29, 2025
Just lovely!
A bit of a change from my usual reading. I fell in love with Sigrid not too long back after seeing a post on Reddit of her and Travis riding past Jeremy Clarkson. After seeing how much my cat loved watching Sigi travel around I decided to support Travis and buy his book….and wow! I am so glad I did!
I found the book interesting and very well written with humour and wit. It’s a wonderful story about friendship and the power that animals have to bring so much happiness into our lives!
Highly recommended! 5/5.
Thank you both for all the joy you spread! :)
A bit of a change from my usual reading. I fell in love with Sigrid not too long back after seeing a post on Reddit of her and Travis riding past Jeremy Clarkson. After seeing how much my cat loved watching Sigi travel around I decided to support Travis and buy his book….and wow! I am so glad I did!
I found the book interesting and very well written with humour and wit. It’s a wonderful story about friendship and the power that animals have to bring so much happiness into our lives!
Highly recommended! 5/5.
Thank you both for all the joy you spread! :)
August 1, 2023
This is such a charming and joyful read about a man and cat going on an adventure together. I was intrigued to read about a cat who loves being on board of a bike. I love the bond that they share and it reminded me of my cat and how strong a bond we have. It was a lovely story and I loved following their journey and how Sigrid helped Travis to show him there is light at the end of the tunnel. Riding around London was magical also I love reading a story about a place I know and love.
August 31, 2023
I was delighted to receive an arc of Sigrid Rides as I have enjoyed the videos of Sigrid and her human of their cycling adventures via social media. The story of their life together pre and post lockdown is particularly poignant and the bond between the two is palpable. Even if you are not a cat lover (I am) readers will fall in love with Sigrid and her quirky personality. Long may the two continue to bring joy to people on their travels.
September 7, 2024
If you follow Travis and Sigi religiously on Insta then this book is for you. As a devoted follower of this wonderful pair, I read this book and wasn’t disappointed. Travis is very open and honest about his mental health struggles and this is a story of hope and success all from his wonderful partnership with Sigi. This book is for all cat lovers/owners who will understand the special bond with these amazing animals.
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