Review
WL Rating
Some biographies, like Noll’s Da Bull, and Lopez’ Surf Is Where You Find It, provide rich surfing histories powered by inherently likable personalities. Then there are other biographies of surfing’s less likable characters, with Miki Dora probably topping that list. But somewhere in the middle are some flawed and occasionally tragic characters like Michael Peterson or, in this case, North Shore Golden Boy turned junkie Jeff Hakman. In Mr. Sunset, author Phil Jarratt delves deeply into Hakman’s past, warts and all. While things start off simply enough for Jeff with the usual healthy introduction to surfing, events quickly sour as the teenage Hakman makes one bad decision after another, ultimately resulting in Hakman’s well-documented drug addiction and ultimate redemption. Particularly interesting are the passages on Jeff’s role within Quiksilver. Now, some of you readers are going to find this analysis of human frailty quite engaging, while others are going to read the book with justified disgust. Let’s put it this way, if you like redemption stories, then this book will resonate. If, on the other hand, you struggle to empathize with narcissistic, self-destructive personalities, then this book will not be a great choice. For me, I enjoyed this well written book. (December 2011)
Mr. Sunset - Phil Jarratt
