The Great Toronto Bicycling Guide. 7th ed.

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

It is surprising to what extent the sights, sounds, even the feel of being in the country can be experienced within the city of Toronto.

Katz’s little pocket guides open up new ways to experience Canada’s largest city. Perfectly sized for slipping into a pocket or back-pack, these guides have a clear and simple layout for easy consultation on the move.

Country Walks introduces 22 places within the city where walkers can have a sense of leaving traffic and high-rise buildings behind, yet each is accessible by public transit. The listing for each walk includes the length, access points from public transit, the nature of the trail or path, notable features, and, if relevant, a little history.

A country walk in the city is an opportunity to see birds, wild flowers and other plants, perhaps a few small animals, the seasonal changes to foliage, rivers, streams, and new views of Lake Ontario.

The bicycling guide includes the protocol for bicycles on public transit and on trails as well as a chapter on how to buy a bicycle. Fifteen bike trips are described, with information on access points, features of interest, bits of history, and cautions, if appropriate. Each guide includes detailed maps and a sprinkling of sketches adds visual interest.

Toronto residents and visitors alike will find these guides open up new possibilities for exploring and enjoying the city.