Current Issue: 30.4

On the cover: Yes, it’s still out there. Kael Walsh finds just what he’s looking for—and finds it all by himself—at quite possibly the most crowded lineup on Earth: the Superbank.

Peel back the lid, and the issue offers full-breadth in the topic. Wider-culture points abound, from an investigation into the seminal artist who first sprayed paint on a surfboard to an overlooked but holding region in Brazil. Tracking the path of a 60s-era luminary and an examination of the title-holder at one of the world’s heaviest waves provide in-depth written portraiture. Where place is concerned, a memoir of an 80s Baja mag trip and a visual study of the seasons and peculiarities of coastal New England set immersive scenes.

More Book Than Magazine

A reader-supported surf publication founded in 1992, The Surfer’s Journal is a vivid, authoritative, and independent document that delivers purist surf energy in each 132-page bimonthly edition.

CURATOR - VOLUME III - CULTURE OF SNOWBOARDING

To The Four Corners of The World

By Peter Troy

Peter Troy OAM was the legendary first Australian surfer to explore the world with a surfboard under his arm. This book reveals hundreds of letters and postcards he regularly sent to his parents in the 4 years from 1963 on to 1966, describing his many amazing experiences on the road. Plus maps he kept, stories about friends he made, photos and so much more. 

Edited and compiled by Brendan McAloon and Sean Doherty, the first hard cover edition sold out almost immediately, and now finally this Limited Edition Paperback edition has been released by his wife Libby Troy. Get in quick before this edition sells out too. 

An original and influential Victorian surfer from the early 1950's pioneering Bells Beach, Troy left Australia by ship in 1963 and roamed the planet with a 9 foot plus surfboard under arm, from Europe to Hawaii, South America to Africa, introducing surfing to Brazil and discovering untold perfect waves, like Nias in 1975 off the coast of Sumatra. He was a pioneer, comparing lugging his balsa longboard around the globe to "travelling with a grand piano". But his surfboard was his letter of introduction, and his trail-blazing adventures etched his name into surfing folklore, inspiring a generation to look beyond their local beach. He documented every step of his remarkable journeys in letters home, which remained undiscovered until his untimely death in 2008. This is his story, of his first 4 year odyssey as he hitch-hiked into surfing history.

As a respected surfer, Peter was selected to demonstrate boardriding at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Peter went on to co-found the first Bells contest in 1962. He was European Champion in 1963 and went on to compete at Makaha in Hawaii and the World Title in Peru. In 1981, he was instrumental in developing a plan to create the Australian Surfing Museum in Torquay. In 2007, Peter was further recognised when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). Peter passed away in 2008.

351 pages Paperback edition
Size: 240 x 165 mm x One Inch Thick

SWITCH-FOOT II

With further photographic contributions from;

George Greenough, Dick Hoole, John Severson, Jack Eden, Bill Ogden, Mal and Barrie Sutherland, Chris Brock, Albe Falzon, Jack McCoy … and others. 

INTERVIEWS WITH : George Greenough - Bob McTavish - Wayne Lynch - Bill Wallace - Joe Larkin - Gordon Woods - Baddy Treloar - Jack Eden - Gerry Lopez - Peter Harris -Rabbit - PT - Nat Young - Neal Purchase SNR - Maurice Cole - ALBE Falzon -Chris Brock -Bob Cooper - Michael Cundith - Peter Drouyn - Geoff McCoy   -Jack McCoy - Jim Banks - Mark Richards - Ken Adler - John Peck - Paul Gross - Paul Witzig - Peter Troy - Phyllis Odonnel - Rusty Miller - Robert Conneeley - MIke Doyle - Dick Van Straalen - Tom MOREY. 

SURF ODYSSEY

There’s much more to surfing than palm trees and beach boy clichés. Beyond mainstream surfing lies an uncharted sea of creativity, community, and independence that celebrates the true nature of surfing. Surf Odyssey depicts this contemporary surf culture: the adrenaline-rush of cold-water surfing, the daunting treks through the terrain of Africa balanced by the welcoming Temple of Enthusiasm in Bali, the quest to find nature in its purest form, and the reward of finding oneself. Stunning images from pioneering outdoor photographers and poignant portraits of movers and shakers within the scene narrate a tale of wave-riding that steps away from social norms and into aquatic swells of adventure. 

Revealing surfers to be multifaceted spirits, Surf Odyssey underlines the natural connections between environmental responsibility and the thrill of embracing an unbroken wall of water whilst showcasing the products and places that comprise this unique community.

William Sharp began taking surfing photographs in southern California in the early seventies and was quickly drawn into the nascent skateboard scene, shooting friends emulating surfing moves on pavement. The work is priceless, not only for its documentary value, but for the beautiful images captured and later developed by Sharp himself. Now in a more compact format, this title is a timeless and nostalgic collection of photographs documenting the skateboarding scene in the 1970s.
ISBN 9783943330472. Gingko Press.

“On Surfing” is a new book from Indoek about the finer points of what the pursuit garners in those that surf, in and out of the water. It’s a collaboration between writer, Michael Adno, and artist / designer, Matt Titone. The series spans pros and industry stalwarts to enigmatic locals and folk heroes. From Gerry Lopez, Kassia Meador, and Mikey February to Stephanie Gilmore, Taro Tamai, and Thomas Campbell, the series shows just how coded, nuanced, and eclectic surfing has become. The concept is simple: We ask all subjects the same questions about their life-long relationships to surfing and the memories they conjure up, and their stories appear alongside hand-drawn portraits. Our goal with this project is to bundle together a set of thoughtful interviews that reveal both the small, prosaic details about surfing but more meaningfully to articulate bigger questions about just what has cast such a spell on this cast of characters. In turn, we hoped it might become an indispensable source of inspiration on every surfer’s bookshelf, one more stab at giving shape to the thing that cannot be named about surfing.

Interviews by Michael Adno
Illustrations by Matt Titone
Format: 6×8”
Volume: Approx. 100 pages
Binding: perfect bound book with cloth linen taped spine
Printing: 1-color Foil Stamped cover + Offset printed interior pages. Printed in the USA at Shapco
Paper: 4 different recycled color paper stocks by French Paper
Language: English

Photographer Matt Dunbar and editor Vaughan Blakey have joined forces to produce a 120 page journal of Laura’s journey into big wave surfing, as seen in the Undone film. Our book provides authentic insight into the personal challenges that Laura faced, as she went in pursuit of the most dangerous waves in the world. Laughter and tears aplenty, it was truly epic - even though it didn’t always go to plan.

Featuring interviews with surfing royalty such as Stephanie Gilmore, Joel Parkinson, Layne Beachley and others, accompanied by imagery from leading Australian surf photographers, Matt Dunbar, Stu Gibson, Nick Green, Duncan Macfarlane, Simon ‘Swilly’ Williams. Interviews by Vaughan Blakey, design by Danny Johnson.

COVID did its damnedest to stop us printing this year, but we kicked it square in the balls and made the 2020 Monster Children Photo Annual. This is the 67th issue of Monster Children, and in it you will find the following: results from our 10th Annual Photo Competition; a long-ass photo featured called ‘The Year in Photos’; a beautiful homage to the late great Keith Hufnagel; a special feature about some very clever young people forging the future of the planet; a nude photo of Vaughan Blakey; an interview with legendary photographer JJ Gonson; many full-colour advertisements; too many single and double-page departments than can’t be listed here. Sick.

Off the Road

The Surfing Animals Alphabet Book. 

Our number 1 go to for grom presents!

"Learn A - Z (or The ABC) + get stoked on surfing, in case you were not already...

Tube riding Tigers, Power Surfing Mandrills and Long boarding Wombats - an aquatic alphabet adventure for Old Sea Dogs and Young Pups alike!"

Hardcover, 64 pages of full colour animal ABC surf stoke.

How do you make a mitarashi dango? Or a zenzai? What do you do if you get an unstoppable craving for cikuzen-ni? The answer is here. Better known as Yocci, Yoshiko Noda describes step by step how to make her favourite Japanese recipes. These are written personally by Yocci in both English and Japanese in a style that loses none of the author's freshness and spontaneity.

ISBN 9788875703295.

Edizioni Corraini

Colder temperatures invite a variety of unique ways to interact with nature. Dog sleighs and snowshoes facilitate movement across snowy plains for everyday icy life whilst ice motocross and figure skating provide a burst of adrenaline. Whether you are looking for a vacation spot where the sun shimmers off of a glittering frozen cliff or for an athletic alternative to the conventional ski slopes, Below Zero celebrates the search for cabins instead of offices and parkas instead of suit jackets. 

Through images of landscapes dusted in a powdery palette and depictions of cold weather athletics, any questions of what to do with a snow day are answered in Below Zero. This volume explores the brisk side of nature’s beauty and the adventures that await when the mercury drops.  

Since the dawn of time, exploring the world by boat has been seen as the pinnacle of freedom. There is no greater adventure than setting sail, at the mercy of the wind, being sprayed by salty water as you voyage from island to island and sea to sea, discovering new landscapes and cultures.

Sailing the Seas will take readers on a series of nautical adventures across the globe, from the coast of the USA down to the Caribbean, through classic Mediterranean voyages and on trips in far-flung locations such as Thailand and French Polynesia. Presenting a fresh, younger side of sailing, this volume reveals the sights, sounds, tastes, and experiences that can be had on board a boat.

With beautiful photos of locations, detailed itineraries, and “Captain’s Notes” filled with useful tips and insights on destinations, Sailing the Seas will inspire novice sailors and “old salts” alike to take to the waves. 

Text and preface by Dayyan Armstrong and Ross Beane

Sailing Collective is comprised of an energetic group of captains, culinary artists, and explorers with a shared enthusiasm for adventure. Their passion lies in curating journeys to the world’s most exotic locations, captained and crewed by talented professionals.

This book has been printed in Germany.
FSC™️ (Forest Stewardship Council™️) Certified.

Carve! A book on Wood, Knives & Axes

This comprehensive guide to woodcraft and the art of carving is the only handbook you will ever need. From identifying trees and picking the right wood to carving safety, necessary tools and how to care for them, Carve! is an inspiring blend of nature lore and good design. With charming and detailed step-by-step photographs and illustrations and more than a dozen fun and unique projects, the essentials are covered to get started and learn a new skill or hone an existing one. Projects include wooden utensils, vessels and boxes, jewellery, hair combs, musical instruments and even a muddler to complete your bar kit. Sure to be a classic for years to come!
ISBN 9781584236627

From the Route des Grandes Alpes to the rough gravel paths that flank the Silk Road and into the arid Californian desert, Ride Out! chronicles some of the best motorcycle journeys in the world—both on- and offroad.

Detailed maps lead you to famous mountain passes and along scenic ocean roads. A motorcycle rider is always on the hunt for the perfect curve, the perfect scenery, and the perfect flow, but it’s the unexpected experiences that fine tune the perfect trip. From exploring new cultures to meeting new people and soaking in the sights and sounds along the way, the culture of discovery is what drives many to gear up for a ride. Pack light for a quick day trip with friends, or gear up for a long haul around the world. Traveling by two wheels on a cross-country expedition offers a freedom unmatched—it’s an adventure in its purest form.

Moveable homes with endless opportunities for exploration and changes of scenery. Converted ferries provide ample space for families. Shanty boats inspire images of Huck Finn’s literary journey and youthful spirit. Former cruise ships become charming hotels. Rock the Boat’s floating domiciles showcase alternative living solutions from the private to the commercial.

From the romantic lakes of Kashmir to the Bay of Venice, houseboats claim their space atop the water worldwide. A buoyant boutique hotel awaits guests in London. A floating sauna promises relaxation for friends upon the Pielisjoki River. DIY timber rafts evoke pride of craftsmanship whilst inspiring feelings of adventure. These charismatic structures provide refuge from being landlocked and a promise to satisfy curious natures. Rock The Boat profiles the imaginative inhabitants and designers behind these houseboats; the volume offers inspiration to anyone interested in a touch of escape or even a permanent change of address.

Over the last 25 years, Cam Honan has trekked more than 90,000 km (55,000 mi). Backpacker Magazine claims to never have met “anyone who’s logged more miles.” Cam has hiked in over 50 countries and splits his time between Australia and his second home of Mexico.

Embark on a thrilling exploration of the world’s most exciting, magnificent, and diverse walking trails and hiking destinations. Besides the better-known paths, The Hidden Tracks will also highlight some of the more out-of-the-way gems—be it an expedition on the other side of the world or a day’s hike just a few hours from your hometown.

From a magic trail leading through a forest of giant trees and breathtaking mountain ascents in South America to a trek among some of the highest sand dunes in the world in Mongolia, this selection of one-of-a-kind trails is presented with stunning imagery, detailed trail descriptions, overview maps, and insider advice on how to make the most of each trip. The book is both a visual journey and an invitation to pack your hiking boots and discover untouched hiking destinations.

HIT THE ROAD

VANS, NOMADS, AND ROADSIDE ADVENTURES

Hit the Road – and leave your comfort zone behind. Step aboard a four-wheeled home that allows you the freedom to stay wherever you want, whenever you want, and however you want. Watch the passing landscapes, follow the desire to see what is just over the horizon line, and escape from modern monotony.

Be it the story of a couple that traveled across Spain, Portugal, and the United Kingdom in a Volkswagen T4 on a journey to enrich their culinary education to a trek from one tip of Canada to the other behind the wheel of a Honda Element with the aurora borealis as a guiding light to a group of friends who perseveringly drove a Porsche 944 from England to Cape Town: Hit the Road welcomes you to follow these nomads and their journeys with stunning photography and details of their intrepid transportation. Rides range from classic Volkswagen Bullis to refurbished Airstream trailers and unstoppable 4x4s. From the deserts of Africa to the snow-capped mountains of Mongolia: prepare to hit the road.

HIDE AND SEEK

The Great Outdoors

Fresh air makes you hungry! The Great Outdoors is a collection of the best recipes for outdoor cooking that will add some spice to every outdoor meal. This book explains how to cook on an open fire and presents the best outdoor cooking equipment and the most delicious recipes for different meals of the day. From on-the-go sandwiches to self-made pesto, preserved delicacies, or power food — this cook book is an essential for your next road trip or camping vacation. Take it along and you will be sure to make new friends on the road and on the campsite.

Chef and outdoor enthusiast Markus Sämmer quit his job in high-end gastronomy to travel Australia and eventually become a self-employed chef a couple of years ago. He developed the recipes in The Great Outdoors on the road in his Volkswagen van. His German edition of The Great Outdoors - 120 Recipes for Adventure Cooking has already been a tremendous success.

There’s no two ways about it: life is better by the beach. The salty air, the sound of the waves and, above all, the relaxed way of life. This title takes readers into beach homes around the world – from the hills of New Zealand to beaches of Brazil to the remote islands of the Aegean – exploring the many ways to decorate a cosy home by the sea. Handmade touches, natural materials and eclectic interiors all imbue a sense of well-being, and are found throughout the homes featured here.
ISBN 9783967040098. Die Gestalten Verlag. hb. 288 pages. full colour. 24 x 30 cm.

Humane Home: Easy Steps for Sustainable & Green Living by Sarah Lozanova

Create your own unique sustainable home and life with tools, tips, and inspiration from The Humane Home. Sarah Lozanova shows us how to evaluate all the ways our lifestyle and living choices can be more sustainable, from powering our homes to the food we consume and the air we breathe. Small steps empower us to act immediately by starting an herb garden, reducing utility bills, and learning how to conduct a home energy audit.

The fun, DIY activities and easy-to-follow, ecofriendly practices reshape how we think about our living spaces and help us create a blueprint for our own personal version of a humane home.