The Masked Rider: Cycling in West Africa

by Neil Peart

Release Date: 1999

Edition: Paperback

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"There's No Rock Star Treatment in Cameroon"

I have long been a fan of Rush, following them closely since the early 1980's. The bands' complex arrangements and the incredibile drum work of Neil Peart are ever inspiring. But what has really made me a fan of the Canadian power trio, is their lyrics. Neil's lyrics, to be more precise; which is why I chose to read "The Masked Rider." Written in the same descriptive style as their songs, Neil takes us along on a journey through some of the hottest, dangerous (and uphill) sections of western Africa. From his struggles with dysentary, to run-down "hotels" with no water, electricity or A.C., to dealing with unruly guards at border stops; Neil's undying optimism and positive outlook was refreshing. Some people hated cycling up 3 mile hills, but Neil didn't mind. For as he put it, "When you get to the top, there's a view." - and then an adrenaline-filled descent down the other side! Don't look for much mention of "Rush" in this book. I think the fact he's a professional musician only surfaced 2 or three times. But it was not dwelled on, which was actually nice and somehow made this read all the more interesting. Neil seems to be very humble, and as the best drummer in the world, this still amazes me. Although I'm not an avid cyclist, I enjoyed this read because it wasn't only about "cycling". It was about travel, both physically and spiritually; with Neil's self-effacing humor creeping through before it ever became pretentious. After reading "Rider", I now feel I have a slightly better understanding of the African culture, cycling, and of a great human being, Neil Peart. Buy "The Masked Rider." Whether a Rush fan, cyclist or one who enjoys good writing, you'll find this book to be a truly enjoyable read.

Beyond Rush and drumming

This book is just amazing ! From the very beginning, Neil Peart takes you into a fantastic journey through the marvelous yet hot and dusty scenarios of West Africa. Besides, the book helps you to see Neil as a plain, simple human being, tortured by the heat and thirsty as anyone of us, tormented by the pains of dysentery and clouds of mosquitoes. Although all the above, plus the sometimes-not-so-friendly encounters with Cameroonian military forces, Neil gathers all his passion about bicycling and love for Africa to pedal ahead and finish his journey happily in one piece. Being myself a Rush fan, drummer and bicycle enthusiast, I couldn't resist to buy this book, and I found out not only that Neil and I have lots on things in common, but also, that he turned out to be a great writer. This one certainly worths the money. My advice: if you like Rush and cycling, buy this book. There's a lot in it to enjoy, and it will also help you to understand the mind and thoughts of one of the greatest rock music's drummers of our time.