If These Surfboards Could Talk
By (Author) Phil Jarratt
Rockpool Publishing
Gelding Street Press
28th October 2025
Australia
General
Non Fiction
Water sports and recreations
History of sport
Hardback
Width 203mm, Height 244mm, Spine 2mm
Join Phil Jarratt, a seasoned surfer, journalist, author, publisher and filmmaker with over 50 years of experience, as he shares the unforgettable tales that every surfer can relate to. From that magic board 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 in this outstanding and fully illustrated book, with historic photos from the world's leading surf photographers of the era.
'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
Get ready to dive into the captivating world of surfing like never before! Join journalist Phil Jarratt, a global authority on surfing, as he shares key moments in surfing's history as well as unforgettable tales that every surfer can relate to. From stories of that magic board 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! Whether it's the one that slipped away or one you simply couldn't buy, these stories resonate with the soul of surfing. Don't miss your chance to experience the thrill and passion of a true surfer through Phil's captivating storytelling. Join us for a ride you won't forget!
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.