With energy, color, and a sense of adventure, this vibrant volume draws young readers into the fascinating world of surfing—its history, its culture, and its irresistible spirit.
From the first wave riders in Polynesia to today’s world-class athletes chasing record-breaking swells, this book shows how surfing has always been more than a sport—it’s a way of life. Readers discover how waves form, how early societies like those in Hawaii wove surfing into everyday life, and how the practice spread around the world—from California and Australia to France, Indonesia, and beyond. Along the way, it introduces larger-than-life figures like Duke Kahanamoku, Miki Dora, Rell Sunn, and Kelly Slater, and explores how surfing intersects with music, film, fashion, activism, and even skateboarding. It also dives into topics like environmental awareness, gender equality, and the thrill of finding the perfect wave. Gazhole’s illustrations are energetic and full of movement, blending dynamic full-page scenes with lively diagrams and comic-style panels. They capture the rhythm of the sea, the spirit of surf culture, and the personalities of iconic surfers with sun-soaked charm. Surfing’s cool, free-spirited energy makes this journey especially captivating for today’s readers—whether they’re seasoned wave-chasers or brand-new to the sport.
Biography
Raphaël Krafft
RAPHAËL KRAFFT is a freelance journalist who lives in the Alpes-Maritimes region of Europe.
GAZHOLE is a French illustrator known for his work on projects like Women Also Made History and The Odysseys – The Legend of King Arthur.
Jérémy Lemarié
JÉRÉMY LEMARIÉ is a researcher and writer whose work focuses on human movement, nature, and cultural connection. He has conducted fieldwork in the United States and Polynesia and has taught subjects including economics, tourism, and cultural anthropology at universities in Hawaii, Paris, and Reims, France, where he lives.
