One with the Waves

<p>Can surfing change your life? For Ellie it most certainly does. Vezna Andrews' debut novel is set in 1980s Southern California where sixteen-year-old Ellie discovers herself through her love of surfing. Born and raised in New York City Ellie’s world is turned upside down when her father unexpectedly dies and her mother sends her to Manhattan Beach California to live with her Aunt Jen and her Uncle Charlie-both avid surfers.</p>

<p>Ellie’s new home is a sharp contrast to the loft in New York City’s garment district where she grew up. Heartbroken about her dad and worried about her mom who drinks too much Ellie doesn’t fit in with the preppie girls at her new California high school who eventually gang up on and bully her. Thankfully with the encouragement of Aunt Jen and Uncle Charlie Ellie discovers surfing which becomes her passion and her refuge.</p>

<p>While surfing California’s wild coast Ellie experiences surfing's spiritual healing qualities including magical encounters with wild dolphins whales and sea lions. Eventually Ellie finds a group of like-minded souls who show her what true friendship is—and she experiences first love. Though her relationship with her mom grows strained Ellie becomes close to Aunt Jen Uncle Charlie and their community of surfers. Through surfing Ellie develops the confidence and strength needed to navigate her own path in life—surfing literally saves her.</p>