Tides the Science and Spirit of the Ocean by Jonathan White

Jonathan White, surfer, sailor, and marine conservationist will give a slide presentation and short reading from his acclaimed book, “Tides the Science and Spirit of the Ocean,” Wednesday, May 31s, from 7-8:30pm. He will answer questions, tell stories, and sign books after the reading. Admission is free.

 

Tides is an engaging blend of science interwoven with his 15 year odyssey around the world in search of tidal stories. White’s book is a lyric poem that honors the ocean he loves. His visceral and abiding affection for the sea, its moods and mysteries, is apparent throughout Tides, drawing readers into the book with the pull of a Spring Tide.

 

When tides nearly caused the loss of his boat, Crusader, one summer, White became obsessed with learning more about the phenomenon. Following the call to knowledge, he logged thousands of miles, visiting China, the San Blas Islands, Great Britain and Chile, tracking the world’s largest tidal bore, observing giant waves surfed by daredevils, investigating how tidal energy can be harnessed, and more. Each destination forms a chapter in the book, crackling with sharply drawn observations of nature and people, layered with illuminating science.

 

White, now a resident of Orcas Island in Washington State, grew up surfing in Southern California. He was a Junior Lifeguard at Zuma Beach and learned how to surf on a 10′ Hobie in the early 60s at Malibu Pier.