One with the Waves

Surfing is a sport that can change your life, as it did for Ellie. It is a spiritual, healing activity that provides a refuge from bullying and allows one to develop confidence and strength. It also helps one to find true friendship and experience first love.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Santa Monica Press

Surfing has the power to transform lives, as proven by the remarkable journey of Ellie in Vezna Andrews' debut novel. Set in the vibrant 1980s Southern California, the story follows sixteen-year-old Ellie as she embarks on a self-discovery journey through her love for surfing. Born and raised in New York City, Ellie's world is turned upside down when her father unexpectedly passes away, and her mother sends her to live with her Aunt Jen and Uncle Charlie in Manhattan Beach, California.

The contrast between Ellie's new home and her upbringing in New York City is stark. Heartbroken over her father's loss and concerned about her mother's excessive drinking, Ellie struggles to find her place among the preppy girls at her new high school. However, her life takes a turn when she discovers the exhilarating world of surfing.

Through her experiences on California's wild coast, Ellie discovers the spiritual and healing qualities of surfing. She experiences magical encounters with wild dolphins, whales, and sea lions, which leave her in awe of the beauty and power of the ocean. Surfing becomes her passion and her refuge, providing her with a sense of belonging and purpose.

Ellie's journey also leads her to a group of like-minded souls who teach her the true meaning of friendship and first love. Despite the challenges she faces in her relationship with her mother, Ellie grows closer to her Aunt Jen, Uncle Charlie, and the vibrant community of surfers. Through surfing, Ellie develops the confidence and strength needed to navigate her own path in life.

In a remarkable turn of events, surfing literally saves Ellie when she faces a life-threatening situation. It is through her surfing skills that she is able to overcome her fears and emerge victorious.

Vezna Andrews' novel beautifully captures the essence of surfing as a means of self-discovery, friendship, and personal growth. It reminds us of the power of the ocean and the transformative impact it can have on our lives. Through Ellie's journey, we witness the importance of pursuing our passions, embracing our unique identities, and finding solace in the things that truly matter. Surfing has the power to change lives, and Ellie's story is a testament to that.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781595801227