Extreme Skateboarding

Children's Literature

Perhaps the earliest sport categorized as "extreme," skateboarding has also become one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. Originated by surfers who put wheels on boards in an effort to keep themselves busy when the waves were too flat to surf, this sport has splintered into different styles such as vert, street and flatland. In this "Extreme Sports: No Limits!" series selection, the author covers the history, the styles, the competitions, and some of the tricks that helped take boarding from a sidewalk activity to a high-risk, big-rush pursuit. Color photographs on every page give this library-bound edition forward momentum as well as a feel for the adrenalin rush that comes from participation. Readers meet some of the stars who have defined the sport and made it so much fun for observers. Readers are also treated to a closer look at some tricks of the trade, from riding the rails to riding down stairs or riding up on a halfpipe. An index, glossary and reference list will serve as useful tools for readers doing research on skateboarding. 2004, Crabtree Publishing Company, and Ages 8 to 9.
—Susan Schott Karr