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If These Surfboards Could Talk

Every surfboard has a story
Brief Description
‘In the not-so-small world of surfing, Phil Jarratt has seen it all... a fearless, funny storyteller with a reporter's unsentimental eye.’ — WILLIAM FINNEGAN, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Barbarian Days Hear the stories behind history's most infamous and iconic surfboards. Expect first-hand accounts, entertaining and expert... Read More
Format: Hardback
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Releases 29th September 2026 (Approx. Date) Pre-order  "If These Surfboards Could Talk" now to secure your copy from our first shipment

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'In the not-so-small world of surfing, Phil Jarratt has seen it all... a fearless, funny storyteller with a reporter's unsentimental eye.'
WILLIAM FINNEGAN, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Barbarian Days

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

‘In the not-so-small world of surfing, Phil Jarratt has seen it all... a fearless, funny storyteller with a reporter's unsentimental eye.’
— WILLIAM FINNEGAN, Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Barbarian Days

Hear the stories behind history's most infamous and iconic surfboards. Expect first-hand accounts, entertaining and expert narration, and fascinating photos.

Journalist Phil Jarratt knows the world of surfing like no-one else, and knows all the stories. In If These Surfboards Could Talk, Phil shares unforgettable tales from behind the boards that every surfer will relate to. From stories of magic boards that could do no wrong to the frustrations of a stubborn ride that wouldn't turn, you'll find the humour and heart behind each wave.

Along the way, Phil takes us through pioneer boards, boards that changed surfing, arty boards, and the downright quirky. Discover the adventures of lost boards, the ones stolen from backyard sheds, those ruined by a rogue roof rack, or even the iconic rides blown out to sea. From Bethany Hamilton’s terrifying shark attack to Batman-themed board art, these stories run the gamut from relatable to hilarious to fascinating.

Whether it's the one that slipped away or one you simply couldn't buy, these yarns resonate with the soul of surfing.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781922662163

Publisher: Rockpool Publishing

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 29 September 2026

Country: Australia

Imprint: Gelding Street Press

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 25.0mm

Width: 190.0mm

Height: 228.0mm

Weight: 643g

Pages: 320

About the Author

Phil Jarratt is a journalist, author, publisher and film-maker with more than 50 years experience in Australian and international media. He is a former editor of Tracks, associate editor of Surfer and editor and publisher of Australian Surfers Journal. He is regarded as one of the foremost global authorities on surfing, and has worked inside the executive ranks of two of the world's biggest surf brands - Rip Curl and Quiksilver, where he was a senior marketing executive for 10 years. He has written more than 40 books covering largely surfing and sport-related biography. He lives in Noosa Heads, Queensland, and surfs every day there are waves.

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