AMAZING ANNIE

A remarkable woman, a remarkable achievement.

You might call Annie Kopchovsky (nee Annie Cohen, 1870-1947) free-wheeling. This young Jewish immigrant became the first woman to circumnavigate the globe by bike—in only 15 months. When Annie arrived in the United States from Latvia, life seemed auspicious, but women’s lives were restricted. She wanted excitement, and the bicycle—innovative in the late 19th century—seemed ideal. Setting out from Boston in June 1894, she traveled no more than 10 miles daily; since her skirt got entangled in the wheels, she eventually eschewed “ladylike” skirts in favor of pants. When Annie couldn’t find accommodations, she slept rough—in barns, under bridges, out in the open. In November 1894, Annie sailed from New York to France and discovered her knack for spinning thrilling tales about her exploits that captivated paying audiences. (They were mostly fabrications.) Visiting Jerusalem was especially emotional; she then proceeded deeper into Asia, still inventing escapades. She sailed from Japan to the United States, arriving in March 1895, but she still had to return to Boston, her starting point, by September. She did, to the huzzahs of her proud family, nation, and laudatory newspaper articles. Krensky has crafted an exciting read that deservedly highlights a little-known explorer; Annie’s wild tales enliven the narrative. The charming color illustrations expertly bring period and background details to life and capture Annie’s fierce determination.

An adventurer receives her due and should inspire readers to reach for their dreams.