The Concrete Wave: The History of Skateboarding

Along with Jocko Weyland's "The Answer is Never," I would highly recommend this book as a great reference for the history of all things Skateboard. The comprehensive history isn't overshadowed by narrow histories (i.e. Dogtown's story), nor personalities (i.e. Tony Hawk as the definitive spokesman), nor stereotypes as it examines the evolution of the skateboard from its start in the 60s as a Sidewalk Surfer toy, through wavering bouts of popularity and decline, to the billion dollar industry it is today. The development of polyurethane wheels, the evolution of deck graphics, the magazines that facilitated its publicity, the rise of the pro skater, and everything in between to give skaters and non-skaters alike something to really appreciate about skateboarding.

Hopefully, author Michael Brooke considers updating the book to incorporate the latest epoch.

Bought for nephew who is a skateboard nut. He loved the glossy pictures. Also lots of info in there about the history.

This book is definitely designed for the younger reader. I liked the graphical layout and many sidebars which is ideal for a reader like my son who has the attention span of a gnat unless it has anything to do with skateboarding. For this reason, I ordered this book for him.

Initially, when he got it for xmas he put it aside then rediscovered it this month and couldnt put it down. That for me is a good thing and while i have read the negative reviews on this book regarding inaccuracies etc. I think this title is a good start for a novice skateboarder who should learn the history of a sport he loves.

While this review is totally based on the reader and not the content, i think its important for parents to know that this book works for reluctant readers!

Very interesting historical view on skating. Reads more like a magazine, (no wonder he started one) but in a good way. We are presented with articles basically, from key skaters throughout time. My only gripe is that he hasn't done a new edition, but I really can't complain about this book.

I was more than a little skeptical when I started reading this one, but found it very enlightening for a "non-skater with a skater husband". I was even more shocked to find out my husband corresponds regularly with the author! I felt this was a very honest, fact-filled book which made it easy for even a laywoman to understand. :)

This book is an awesome read as well as some of the other publications that Michael's company has out there! My hubby is a big stickler for details and even he was impressed, which takes a lot. Being almost-40 (but would never admit it) sports nuts, we both enjoyed this one!