The First Tour de France by Peter Cossins. Book review

The First Tour de France by Peter Cossins As the title implies this is the story of the first Tour. Taking place in 1903, this interesting history provides the background on how the Tour got started. Of course several people take credit, but there is a decided upon standard legend story. This is a layered narrative with highlights the different personalities which were involved. Which were considerable. The first Tour was in six stages, and the bulk of the book tells the story of each stage in a chapter. This is done by the author giving us the background of what was going on at the time, then a story of the stage told as if it was an article appearing in a cycling newspaper of the time. Which is extremely effective and well done. Also included in the background of the Tour is the situation in France at the time, and how the Tour help cement the modern image of French nationality and culture. The first Tour was an instant success and changed how competitive cycling at the time was being done.