Lisbon to Shanghai in Four Summers: A Memoir

by Tom Sweeney

2022 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Memoir & TravelTom Sweeney was thirty-eight years old when he announced his ridiculous plan to ride his bicycle around the world. He had everything an adult is supposed to a good job, an amazing wife, a nice home. But he felt like something was missing, like the humdrum of impending middle age wasn’t living up to its promises of fulfillment.Over the course of four summers, Sweeney pedaled from Lisbon, Portugal, to Shanghai, China, crossing twenty-two countries and amassing a lifetime of fascinating stories. His memoir, however, is hardly an ordinary travelogue. It is grounded in Sweeney’s everyday life as a fifth-grade teacher in Colorado. Blending humble honesty and subtle humor, Sweeney explores themes of loneliness, perseverance, and the repercussions that come with every choice we make.Real life, it turns out, doesn’t stop moving just because we embark on some grandiose quest. Sometimes, the answers we’re seeking show up in the most unexpected and ordinary ways.

324 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 20, 2021

About the author

Tom Sweeney lives in Fort Collins, Colorado, with his wife and dog. He has taught fifth grade for twelve years. His favorite thing about working in education is being around fifth graders. Their sense of humor, natural curiosity, and unique way of looking at the world are a refreshing break from the realities of adulthood!

Originally from Michigan, Sweeney has traveled to over forty countries, including a study abroad program in England, graduate research in Belize, volunteer work at a nature preserve in Guatemala, and a two-year service in Peace Corps Mongolia.

Sweeney has been an avid cyclist since he was old enough to pedal, and started racing road bikes when he was fifteen. He completed his first extended bicycle tour around Colorado in 2012.

While he has written more academic papers than he can count, this is his first book.

Reviews

[Kendra Bigsby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read! More than just about cycling. About life, longing, and struggles that come with age. Easy to read and hard to put down.

[Lonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two journeys: physical and mental

Astounding accomplishment to ride those distances and countries with all the related tales of border crossings, communication problems, cycling issues and beautiful sights.
Internally, Tom questions his personal drives, ambitions and desires, woven neatly into the narrative of the adventures.
An enjoyable read!

[Kara Rawlins · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating memoir of an incredible feat, exploring not only a physical endeavor to cycle around the world, but also a look into the emotional journey we all take through life in search of hope, happiness, and belonging.

[Leah Dennison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was more than a travelogue. It delved into the heart of Tom and what makes him tick. Enjoyed the book and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommend!