"What a great read for anyone familiar with Hawaii or with surfing culture (or wishes they were more familiar)! This novel tells the tale of a boy-turned-man who escapes his adolescent trials through surfing but is then forced to grow up due to a tragedy of his own making. He's then required to look at his life and take stock. The main character wasn't always sympathetic, but I did find him realistic. Theroux has again infused his writing with an intimate understanding of Hawaii, its people, its history, and also with a heartfelt and honest take on human nature, the ways people can get stuck, and how they journey through emotional dark places toward personal growth. ”- Monnie, Meadows
