
The Surfer's Code by Shaun Tomson: Book Review
Shaun Tomson is a world champion surfer who has experienced enough in his life to write a book. And that's just what he did.
In this article, you'll learn
- Who Shaun Tomson is and why he wrote The Surfer's Code
- What the 12 lessons in the book are broadly about
- Whether it's worth reading for its message of hope and perseverance
- The book's format, length, and publication details
The Surfer's Code by Shaun Tomson is a 12-lesson book blending autobiography and life philosophy, drawn from Tomson's world title career and personal hardships, and this review recommends it as one of the best surf books for its message of hope and perseverance.
Shaun Tomson is a world champion surfer who has experienced enough in his life to write a book. And that's just what he did.

The book is beautifully presented, complete with cut-out cover image
The Surfer’s Code is, however, much more than an autobiography. It is a compilation of 12 simple lessons that, if we all follow, can truly transform our pastime back to something resembling the sport of kings.
There is so much to say about Shaun and his book. I find it difficult to be unbiased because he has been a hero to me from the first day I stepped onto a beach. That happened to be the Bay of Plenty beach in Durban, the same place Shaun learned to surf.
The Surfer’s Code is split into 12 main chapters, all relevant to aspects of surfing but applicable to our lives in general. I will not delve into these lessons as you should buy his book.
Each lesson is backed with lucidly written anecdotes, revealing a deep side to the man who left a troubled country and pursued his dreams relentlessly.
The most positive message threaded throughout this book is one of hope and never giving up. From his father’s shark attack and massive disappointments on the pro circuit, through to business failures and most recently the tragic death of his son, Mathew, Shaun has travelled his path with grace and dignity. He truly is a spokesman, icon and ambassador for the sport of kings.
Fact file
Get all the details and buy online at: http://www.surferscode.com/
Hardcover: 208 pages
Publisher: Gibbs Smith, Publisher; 1 edition (September 13, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1423600762
ISBN-13: 978-1423600763
Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches
**Rating
Yes, it's as good as it gets**
Frequently asked questions
- What is The Surfer's Code about?
- It's a 208-page hardcover book by 1977 world champion Shaun Tomson, structured around 12 lessons drawn from surfing that apply broadly to life, backed by personal anecdotes from his career and family life.
- Who wrote The Surfer's Code?
- Shaun Tomson, a world champion professional surfer, wrote the book, published by Gibbs Smith in 2006.
- Is The Surfer's Code worth reading?
- This review rates it highly, calling it 'as good as it gets,' largely for its threaded message of hope and resilience through Tomson's shark attacks, business setbacks and personal loss.
- How long is The Surfer's Code?
- It's a 208-page hardcover, sized 9.1 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches, with a cut-out cover image.