Skateboard

Object Lessons is a series of short books that explore the hidden lives of ordinary things, such as the skateboard's rise from a menacing fad to an Olympic sport. Writer and skateboarder Jonathan Russell Clark goes straight to the sources to uncover the real history of skating, which exists in a hodgepodge of random and iconic videos, tattered photographs, and blurry memories of the people who lived through it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 20 October 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Object Lessons is a captivating series of short books that delves into the hidden world of ordinary objects. Written by writer and skateboarder Jonathan Russell Clark, this insightful exploration seeks to answer the intriguing question of how the skateboard, once considered a menacing fad, has transformed into an Olympic sport. Clark's approach is unique, as he directly engages with the skaters, photographers, commentators, and industry insiders who played a pivotal role in this remarkable journey. Skateboarders themselves are historians, and their memories, captured through a mix of random and iconic videos, tattered photographs, and personal anecdotes, form the foundation of the real history of skating.

This history is not confined to dusty archives or scholarly texts but exists in the fragmented memories of those who lived through the era. From the sun-kissed beaches of California to the bustling streets of Tokyo during the 2020 Olympic Games, the skateboard has defied its critics and emerged as a global community of creativity, camaraderie, and relentless progression. Object Lessons is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of ordinary objects to inspire and connect people from all walks of life.

Published in partnership with an essay series in The Atlantic, Object Lessons offers a fresh perspective on the world around us, challenging our assumptions and prompting us to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the objects that surround us. Whether you're a skateboarder, a casual observer, or someone who appreciates the art of storytelling, this series is a must-read for anyone who seeks to discover the hidden stories and untold wonders of the everyday world.

Weight: 150g
Dimension: 121 x 165 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501367489