From Booklist
Gr. 4-8. From the Popular Mechanics for Kids Books series, this entertaining, information-packed volume introduces scooters, in-line skates, skateboards, and snowboards. Thomas combines sound advice for beginners with glimpses of the "X-treme scene," showcasing the amazing feats performed by the pros and other experienced riders. Though these sports are male dominated, the book acknowledges girls by spotlighting two women pros; it also includes women in the photos and illustrates moves with cartoon figures that could be male or female. Thomas' tone varies from punchy informality in discussing the sports' origins, history, high points, and techniques to down-to-earth practicality in explaining equipment, maintenance, and safety. Frequent sidebars offer highlights of the sports and definitions