Sister Surfer: A Woman's Guide to Surfing with Bliss and Courage

... and I'm a guy. I bought this for my wife, and I'll admit I'm a bit surf deprived lately, and definitely very stressed, but I've been trying to encourage her to follow through with her dream to learn to surf for a long time. This book said everything I tried to tell her an much much more. despite the fact that I got a bit emotional looking through this book, I'm sort of a manly man and she feels like I don't understand her fear of water or appreciate her challenges when it comes to surfing , (which is probably true.) This book addressed so many issues so much better than I ever could have that I can't say enough positive about it. It addresses real issues without all the surf hype: its genuine and helpful. Plus it provides perspectives from for all kinds of surfers from pros, to kids, to adult beginners. its really inspiring both for her, and me, an average surfer guy who wishes he could get out a little more often.

This book is great for anyone interested in surfing. The chapter addressing the subject of 'fear' is particularly good. There's also a good section on surfing-specific exercises to keep in shape. It's written with a lot of aloha spirit and has a nice dedication to the Queen of Makaha, Rell Sunn.

As a younger woman and recent breast cancer survivor, I found this book to be a great source of healing. It was validating and uplifting to read testimonies from other women that faced challenges in their lives. Sister Surfer reminded me of what's important in life: fun in the sun! After reading this book, I had my first surf lesson and had a blast. I can't wait to hit the waves again!

Sister Surfer is a great inspiration. I picked up the book for a friend but had to buy a second copy for myself. Who doesn't want to surf? Starting is the hardest part. Sister Surfer de-mystifies surfing and makes it accessible to everyone. You do not need to be twenty, athletic, and bikini clad. The wide range of women of different ages and experiences featured in the book help to reinforce the idea that anyone can surf. Women like camaraderie and this book makes you feel like you are part of a community even if you haven't started surfing yet. The lessons in the book can be taken into every other part of your life where courage needs to overcome fear. The book is beautifully done with lots of graphics and great photos of women with the huge smiles that come from conquering fear or achieving a dream. The style of the book allows you to either skim for relevant topics or read it from cover to cover.

I have sand caught between the pages of this book, because it motivated me to get in the water ASAP. A highly recommended read for those who seek the waves. Kia Afcari and Mary Osborne have shown me that surfing is more than a sport, it is rebirth.