If These Surfboards Could Talk

Regular price $59.95
By Books

Hear the stories behind history's most infamous and iconic surfboards.

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

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.

About the Author:

Phil Jarratt is a journalist, author, publisher and filmmaker with more than 50 years of 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 primarily surfing and sport-related biography. He lives in Noosa Heads, Queensland, and surfs every day there are waves.

ISBN: 9781922662163
ISBN-10: 192266216X
Published: 29th September 2026
Format: Hardcover
Language: English
Audience: General Adult
Publisher: Rockpool Publishing
Country of Publication: GB
Dimensions (cm): 22.8 x 19.0 x 2.5