Every now and then a truly original book appears on my desk. Such a book is Bicycles: Objects of Grace, Charm and Utility by Michael Harvey. Michael, as well as being a world-class type designer, is a very keen cyclist and a very talented photographer.

This 56-page colour book consists of photographs of bicycles which Michael has noticed on the street. Fascinating, eh? Well, actually, it is. What really makes it is the careful observation and the great photographs. Here’s a typical caption:

The rear triangle’s horizontal track ends, and short wheelbase show this fixed-gear Bianchi was built for the track. As a shopping bike, it has a front carrier, sprung leather saddle, no breaks.

Michael has also published a book on hydrant signs. Another winner!

Neither of these books is easy to get hold of, but Michael is setting up a website which will accept PayPal. When he does, I’ll post the details here.