Every skater cherishes the memory of their first deck, the iconic skate videos, the music, the tricks, and the outfits. We remember the graphics on our early completes, the designs on t-shirts and wheels, and even the signature style of our favorite filmer. But how many of us can name our favorite skate writer? The world of skateboarding literature often gets overlooked. Is it because skaters are not readers? We don’t think so. Skateboarding is a thoughtful and creative pursuit, and while it’s visually captivating, there’s a lot to be said for the written word. So, for those of us who crave a different kind of skate media, who want to delve into books and discuss them, here’s a selection of books that capture the essence of being “under the spell of an activity that lies at the unique junction of sport and art,” as Jocko Weyland puts it.
Tara Jepsen’s Like a Dog
Like a Dog stands out as a raw and powerful novel in skate literature. Like many skate-related narratives, the skateboarding aspect serves as a backdrop to explore the complexities of life, love, and trauma. This book delves into how childhood experiences of trauma and abuse can shape adulthood, and the difficult dynamics within a dysfunctional family. Its fast-paced narrative, filled with punk rock tours, drug overdoses, and backyard pool sessions will keep you engaged. It’s a wild ride that explores the complicated and heartbreaking aspects of human existence, with skateboarding subtly woven throughout the story.
Available from City Lights here.
Karl Watson’s My First Skateboard and Jonas Meets Jack
If you enjoy reading children’s books or want to introduce the love of skateboarding to your kids, My First Skateboard and Jonas Meets Jack are great choices. These books tell the story of Jonas and his journey of falling in love with skateboarding. Written by the legendary Karl Watson and illustrated by Henry Jones, these books celebrate the power of skateboarding to unite people in a creative and supportive community. They evoke a feeling of warmth and nostalgia for the early days of skateboarding and introduce a positive message about the inclusive nature of skate culture. These are perfect for a mellow read or for sharing with younger generations.
Buy a copy here.
Shaggy’s Pray for Pigeons
Shaggy embodies the old-school spirit of skateboarding. He’s a purist who doesn’t participate in mainstream skateboarding events, favors street skating over mini-ramps, and has a unique, DIY approach. Pray for Pigeons can only be found in local skate shops or through direct contact with Shaggy himself, which adds to its underground appeal. This book is written in a stream-of-consciousness style with many side notes, reminiscent of the beat poets of the past. It delves into beer drinking at your local skate spot, being the mayor of the park, graphic skate injuries (warning for detailed descriptions of compound fractures), and encounters with strangers in the streets. The book offers a raw, unfiltered perspective on skateboarding and street culture.
Walker Ryan’s Top of Mason
Top of Mason is a novel that offers a peek into the life of a professional skateboarder in the modern era. With each copy sold, one dollar is donated to the Glide Church, a San Francisco institution that provides services to the homeless and has a long history of advocating for the queer community. This book explores the challenges of fame and jealousy in the skateboard world, a world where skaters generally shun the notion of fame. Walker Ryan’s narrative captures the emotional struggles of a mid-level pro skater, whose best days might be behind him, in an honest and engaging way. It’s a relatable read for those who still dream of becoming a pro, but also for anyone interested in the human side of skateboarding.
Currently available here.
Kyle Beachy’s The Most Fun Thing
The Most Fun Thing is a collection of essays and memoirs, with a cover photo featuring a broken skateboard. The book explores the human experience through the lens of skateboarding, rather than focusing solely on the act of skating itself. Beachy delves into themes like Andrew Reynolds, bad kickflips, and marital problems. It reminds us that skateboarding is not just a sport, but a way of understanding the “rigors, rewards, and negotiations of being human.” It’s a book for those who appreciate the deeper connections between skateboarding and life, offering thoughtful insights into both.
Buy it on Amazon here.
Jonathan Russell Clark’s Skateboard
Skateboard is a small book that packs a punch. It begins by acknowledging the lack of historical documentation of skateboarding and then presents five well-researched essays aimed to fill this void. One notable essay follows photographer Jonathan Mehring’s journey from taking photos of Josh Kalis at Love Park, struggling to get paid by Slap Magazine, to traveling the world and capturing the global language of skateboarding for his National Geographic book, Skate the World. There is also an analysis of Mark Suciu’s skate part, using literary techniques. This is a great read for those who appreciate a deep dive into the history and culture of skateboarding.
Pick up a copy here.
Leo Baker’s Skate for Your Life
Skate for Your Life, an autobiography, is a vulnerable and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by Leo Baker within the skateboarding industry. It is critical of the gatekeepers who often clash with skateboarding’s free-spirited nature. According to JD Samson from Le Tigre, this book “synthesizes what so many LGBTQIA people can relate to–the lifelong journey of seeking out spaces where we fit in, and when we don’t find them, making new ones.” This book is empowering for anyone who feels different and seeks to navigate a world that often pressures conformity. The book is an easy read, yet profound in its message of inclusivity and authenticity.
Pick up a copy here.
Jocko Weyland’s The Answer is Never
The back cover of this book features the bald author, Jocko Weyland, doing a frontside rock in a bowl, which perfectly encapsulates its essence. The book opens with Weyland skating alone in an idyllic environment, contrasting his experience with Tony Hawk’s simultaneous 900 at the X Games. Weyland’s book celebrates the outsider status of skateboarding, focusing on bondo-ing cracks, hip bruises, and challenging authority. The Answer is Never will resonate with those who cherish skateboarding’s countercultural spirit and the unique bond among skaters.
Pick up a copy here.
Matt L Roar’s My War
My War, a hybrid collection of text, part poem, part memoir, explores growing up skating and doing graffiti in the San Francisco Bay Area during the late 90s and early 2000s. Inspired by the Black Flag album of the same name, the book delves into the sometimes challenging relationships within the skate community and reflects on the impact of the Vietnam War. With the cover featuring a drawing of Pier 7 Jacob doing a nollie fs crooks, it captures the spirit of skateboarding’s raw authenticity. My War offers a deep look into the skateboarding scene in San Francisco and the unique experiences of its skaters.
Pick up a copy here.
In conclusion, while skateboarding is often thought of as a visual pursuit, these books showcase the depth and diversity of the skateboarding culture. They go beyond the tricks and videos, exploring the human stories, the creative spirit, and the unique bonds that make skateboarding so compelling. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or new to the scene, these books offer a fresh perspective and are essential reads for those looking to delve deeper into the culture they love.
