WL Rating

The ratio of fiction to non-fiction surf books is pretty low. The reason? Without trying to disrespect the writers of surfing non-fiction, it’s a hell of a lot easier to write a non-fiction surfing book than it is to write a compelling surf novel. That’s why whenever I get a new surf novel in the mail, I’m always a bit leery, hoping that the book will be good and not an overly self-conscious exercise in poorly written surf-lit. Well, no fear of that with Kevin Naughton’s wonderful book Trout Rising. Naughton’s book is a highly creative coming of age novel that tracks the hero, Skip Trout, as he moves from unloved kook to, well, a really nice guy who surfs well. Hopping the bus from Chino to Huntington Beach, Trout suffers all forms of indignity while learning to surf (locals, crappy board, etc.). While nearly drowning one day he comes upon a bottle that holds a surfing genie. The genie, named Jazzwell, offers the genie-union-mandated three wishes, which Trout uses wisely. As the wishes are redeemed, Trout embarks upon an amazing tour through a magical surf realm populated by eternally stoked menehunes, chasing the world’s best waves from dusk till dawn. Trout Rising is more than just a surfing fantasy novel. It takes the reader on a metaphysical journey, imparting wisdom along the way without being preachy, aloof, or a grinding read. It’s a warmly written book that I think is perfect for beach reading or escaping the cold days of winter. It’s also a novel equally well suited to adults or young teens. In fact, if you have a non-reading but surf stoked teen, this might be the book that helps transform him/her into a lifelong reader.  (February 2012)

Review

Trout Rising - Kevin Naughton

Details

Category: Fiction

Reading Style: Easy

Pages: 383

Pub Date: 2011

Tags: Surfing