The Scalextric handbook - James May

Fresh from his world record attempt at the legendary Brooklands motor racing circuit, in which the Toy Stories team built a 2.7-mile circuit entirely out of Scalextric track, James May re-enters the world of Scalextric, Britain's leading slot-car racing brand. Remembering many childhood hours spent recreating the thrills and spills of Goodwood, Silverstone and Brands Hatch, James examines the development and expansion of Scalextric from its true British roots to its international appeal today.

He investigates the history of the brand, documenting the greatest sets and cars ever produced - including Formula 1, rally, touring cars and Le Mans. James also looks at what it takes to be a Scalextric champion, the essential elements of good track design, how to customise your racer and gets technical with the difficulties involved in scaling a full-size performance car down to an accurate, working slot-car.