Review

WL Rating

Swoboda’s first novel could almost be considered a prequel to the Bounty Trilogy given the book’s setting and cast of characters (Captains Cook and Bligh). Unlike the Bounty, however, Swoboda’s book is less about historical documentation and more of a fictional narrative rooted in Polynesian culture and the author’s own love of surfing. The novel describes the tale of a debauched English noble, Walter Beaumont, who after inadvertently killing another nobleman is forced to flee England in order to avoid prison and family shame. Beaumont’s mother finds passage for him on the HMS Resolution, the military science vessel captained by the famous James Cook. On the long trip to the South Pacific, Beaumont befriends a Tahitian named Omai who ultimately teaches Beaumont the ways of Polynesia, including the art of wave riding. The overall story is entertaining and richer if you’ve read the Bounty books, which provide additional context that benefits Swoboda’s story. While the novel lacks the sophistication of other surf novelists like Kem Nunn, it’s a good first effort. One oddity worth noting is the book’s tendency to move from its 18th Century narrative into relatively modern descriptions of surfing, e.g. using words like “wipeout” and “line-up.”  These modern references tended to yank me out of the period-piece that Swoboda had so carefully crafted.  Even so, this is a very easy read and easily digested on the beach in a couple of days. (July 2009)

Mountains of the Sea - Gunter O. Swoboda

Details

Category: Fiction

Reading Style: Easy

Pages: 400

Pub Date: 2009

Tags: Island, Island, Surfing