The World in The Curl (Crown Publishers) is a fascinating, compelling, and highly readable look at the origins of surfing. California authors Peter Westwick and Peter Neushul, both surfers, have masterfully created a book that tells the familiar story of surfing from a cultural, political, economic, and environmental perspective. Not too many know the huge role the military has in creating surfing as we know it today; from the neoprene in our wetsuits to keep us warm, to Dr. Walter Munk’s pioneering work with the Army to invent accurate surf forecasting. The chapter on the history of the development of Waikiki real estate is especially interesting. From Duke Kahanamoku’s impact to the inclusion of women in today’s surfing lineup, there is much to ponder and learn about this activity we all share in The World in The Curl. Highly recommended.