Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 83 votes)
5 stars
33(40%)
4 stars
20(24%)
3 stars
30(36%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
83 reviews
July 14,2025
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I truly enjoyed the journaling aspect of this remarkable book. It was an absolute delight to follow the author on his thrilling surf adventures, not only through the beautiful landscapes of Mexico but also beyond its borders.

However, I must admit that I was a little bit disappointed in the ending. After reaching what seemed to be the "climax" of the story, it sort of just abruptly ended. It left me with a sense of incompleteness, as if there was more that could have been explored or developed.

Overall, despite this minor drawback, I would highly suggest this book to anyone who has an interest in reading about the exciting life of a traveling surfer and his loyal dog. The author's easy-going writing style makes it a pleasure to read, and it really gives you a vivid and engaging look into their world.

In fact, I am so inclined to read his other book, "Cosmic Banditos," based on the enjoyable experience I had with this one. I am eager to see what other adventures and stories the author has to share.
July 14,2025
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In Search of Captain Zero by Allan Weisbecker is an incredibly suspenseful book.

It is filled with problems and fun in every single chapter. Written in parts, Weisbecker vividly describes his journey to Central America in pursuit of his best friend, Captain Zero.

He initially thought his journey would be quick and safe, but he was soon met with numerous twists and turns that he never anticipated.

From that point on, Weisbecker had to fight for his own safety and find his best friend as quickly as possible.

The only character in this book that I connected with in some way was Weisbecker himself. His brave and cunning personality was a perfect match for mine.

If you are a brave and outgoing person, then you will surely connect with Weisbecker as well.

My connection with Weisbecker not only helped me understand the book better but also made the reading experience much smoother.

When Weisbecker lost his only transportation, a trailer called La Casita, he had to rely on his brain and remain calm to get himself out of trouble.

Weisbecker and I have so many similarities. I, too, am the type of person who never panics when faced with a strange situation, just like him.

No matter who you are, if you read this book, you will inevitably connect with Weisbecker in one way or another.

The thing that made the reading easy for me was, as I mentioned earlier, my connection with the main character.

Connecting with him allowed me to picture myself in every situation he found himself in.

Another factor that made it easy to read was the book being written in parts. Each part represented a different region of North America.

So, whenever I was confused about the setting, I could easily remember that, for example, this part was set in Central America.

Overall, I would highly recommend this book to everyone and anyone who enjoys reading about adventure and road trips.

Nonetheless, I firmly believe that anyone would enjoy this book.
July 14,2025
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A surfer's memoir is not just about the act of surfing itself.

It delves deeper into the connections that are formed with the people encountered along the journey.

These chance meetings and interactions often leave a lasting impact on the surfer's life.

Moreover, the memoir also explores the places that the surfer keeps coming back to.

These locations hold a special charm and significance, perhaps due to the memories made there or the sense of belonging they evoke.

The surfer's memoir is a beautiful exploration of the human experience, filled with stories of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery.

I truly loved reading it and was inspired by the surfer's ability to find meaning and connection in the simplest of things.

It made me realize that sometimes, the most important things in life are not the big achievements or the material possessions, but the relationships we build and the places that feel like home.

This memoir is a must-read for anyone who loves the ocean, adventure, or simply a good story.
July 14,2025
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This was the perfect book for me at this crucial point in my life.

Suddenly being thrust into a world devoid of responsibilities, I felt rather lost and confused, not knowing precisely what I should do. Fortunately, the world is as it is, and I chose to embrace it wholeheartedly. Learning to surf and to simply take life as it presents itself right in front of me, at this very moment, has truly opened my eyes to the miracle that lies within everything and anything.

Life is indeed an adventure.

This book served only to reaffirm that profound notion. Phrases like "The only constant is change", "anything can happen", and "you never know what's around the next corner" - all those well-known cliches are present. But that's the essence of life, real and raw. Born 10 years after 1970, I can only envision the golden age of surfing and drugs, yet my dad was actually there, and his stories bear a striking resemblance to those in this book.

It requires someone with a surfing background to truly fathom the concept of waveriding mechanics and physics as presented in the book. However, they are explained in sufficient detail and with an almost mysterious allure that even a non-surfer can understand and find joy in, just like the writer.

This is Weisbecker's story. Whether it inspires you or not, go out and embark on your own adventure.
July 14,2025
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This book was recommended to me by a bookstore staff member while I was on a ski trip in Wyoming.

I was simply looking for a light read to enjoy during the flight home.

To be honest, I am not a surfer at all. However, as I started reading this book, I quickly got into the story.

The courage and determination that Weisbecker had to pull off what he did was truly remarkable.

The author's vivid descriptions made me feel as if I was right there with Weisbecker, experiencing all the challenges and triumphs along the way.

It was a captivating read that kept me engaged from beginning to end.

Even though I have no personal connection to surfing, this book managed to draw me in and make me appreciate the sport and the people who are passionate about it.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an inspiring and entertaining story.
July 14,2025
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This is a great book for those who are interested in the archetypical surfing life.

Weisbecker does an excellent job of describing surfing. He doesn't just focus on the physical aspect of it, but also delves into the mental and spiritual role that surfing holds for most surfers.

Some might think his descriptions are a bit overdone, but in reality, they are actually quite close to the truth.

The book contains a significant amount of Weisbecker's real life experiences, but there is also a fictional element in there that is easy to forget about.

Overall, it provides a unique and engaging perspective on the world of surfing, combining both the real and the imagined to create a captivating read.
July 14,2025
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This book was, at best, an average read.

I did enjoy hearing about Allan's dog and all the nature imagery he描绘s during his travels. It truly makes me渴望to get out on the water more often than I have been lately.

If there was more profound meaning to be extracted from it, I would rate this book in the four-star range. However, what brought 'In Search Of Captain Zero' down to the three-star zone was Allan's use of words and sentence structure.

He constructs these elaborate sentences with words that, at least for me, seemed overly grandiose and unnecessary. If he could be a less verbose author, he would be much more appealing.

I might consider checking out 'Cosmic Banditos' at some point, but I'm definitely in no hurry to do so.
July 14,2025
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If you have ever embarked on a significant journey or an exciting adventure through Mexico or any Latin American country, this book is an absolute must-read for you. It offers a wealth of insights and experiences that will enhance your understanding of the region.


If you are a surfing enthusiast, this book holds great value. It delves into the world of surfing in Latin America, providing details about the best spots, the local culture, and the unique challenges and rewards that come with it.


Even if you have been involved in the drug trade, this book can offer a different perspective. It explores the complex and often dangerous world of narcotics, shedding light on the reasons behind people's involvement and the consequences that follow.


Furthermore, if you are a woman and you find yourself in a relationship with an emotionally distant middle-aged boyfriend who loves to leave you and embark on exotic trips around the world, this book can provide valuable insights. It helps you understand his mindset, the possible reasons for his behavior, and how you can better cope with the situation.

July 14,2025
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This book truly amazed me, mainly due to what the author has chosen to disclose to us.

After not having seen a surfing companion of his for several years, Allan makes the decision to go and look for him. He uses the address on the very last postcard he received from his friend as the destination point.

The book alternates between his thrilling surfing adventures along the journey and his detailed accounts of their life on the wrong side of the law in the previous years.

I was simply astonished to read about these exploits. I can only guess that the statute of limitations must have expired.

It makes me wonder about the choices people make and how their past can come back to haunt them or, in this case, be shared in a captivating story.

The author's ability to blend these two aspects of Allan's life creates a narrative that is both exciting and thought-provoking.

It keeps the reader engaged from start to finish, eager to find out what will happen next and how Allan's search for his friend will ultimately end.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good adventure story with a touch of mystery and a hint of the darker side of life.
July 14,2025
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I simply cannot find the right words to accurately convey just how much I relished this book. The moment I turned the last page, a profound sense of grief washed over me. It was an indescribable feeling. This book, crafted by the amazing word-artist and Gonzo writer, is truly something special. It takes you on a captivating journey, one that is filled with vivid descriptions and unique perspectives. As you progress through the pages, you become completely immersed in the author's world. And when you reach the end, you are left in a perpetual state of melancholy and hope. It's a strange yet beautiful combination of emotions. I reserve my highest recommendations for this remarkable book. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates great literature and wants to embark on a truly unforgettable literary adventure.

July 14,2025
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A cousin recommended this book to me a few years ago. He is a surfer from Long Island who often vacations in Costa Rica. He said it was the best book he had ever read. No disrespect to my dear cousin, but I couldn't imagine he had read many books. I took his recommendation seriously, but felt no urgency.

A few weeks ago, Costa Rica as a vacation destination came up with an English teacher friend with whom I coach. He recommended the same book. I figured it was time to read "In Search of Captain Zero" - and I'm very glad I did.

The story is a biographical narrative as the author takes a road trip south into Mexico, Central America, and ultimately Costa Rica. As he travels in search of an old friend, he reflects on his life as a drug smuggler, surfer, and writer. So, while the book is a series of fun, funny, and exciting vignettes, it holds together as one big adventure mixed with existential philosophy and surfing.

My first thought when my cousin mentioned this as the best surfing book ever was lots of surfer dude slang and stories about big waves. What Weisbecker reflects on is being one with the force of nature that is the ocean. His pursuit is Faustian, and his prose when expounding on the art and experience of long boarding would make Goethe proud. He is also clever and careful with the underlying surf story. As the author adventures and reflects, he never stops looking for and stopping to commune with "The Wave". Thus, surfing is the spine of the book while in no way an overbearing theme. Allan is in search of his old friend Chris, and the tale of the comet that is his journey is the history and passion he brings with him.

So, no bogus surfer slang, lots of terrific side stories, a cohesive overarching adventure, love lost, lots of self-actualization and realization found, along with a philosophy of surf that reminds me of Krakauer writing about mountain climbing, Hillenbrand on horses, or Goethe on existence. The desire to be one with the universe through physical challenge, grace, and beauty - even if only for a second... Beautiful book. Cousin Rick was right - well worth a read!
July 14,2025
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A good read awaits those who have an interest in surfing, drugs, and Central America. I, for one, have a voracious appetite for all three of these captivating topics. That's why I truly enjoyed Weisbecker's book a great deal.


The author showcases first-rate lucidity within the genre of adventure writing. However, it must be noted that his language at times becomes somewhat beleaguered by an excess of verbiage and, rather strangely, antiquated poetic terms. Nevertheless, his storytelling, especially in the second half of the book, usually manages to make up for these minor drawbacks.


Despite the occasional linguistic challenges, the overall narrative is engaging and keeps the reader hooked. It offers a unique perspective on the intertwined worlds of surfing, the drug trade, and the vibrant landscapes of Central America. Weisbecker's ability to weave together these diverse elements into a cohesive and compelling story is truly remarkable.

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