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
... Show More

A Fabulous Tale of Surf Travel, Drug Smuggling and Debauchery



This story is a captivating blend of adventure and vice. It takes the reader on a wild journey through the world of surf travel, where the allure of the ocean meets the seedy underbelly of drug smuggling and debauchery. The writing is beautiful, painting vivid pictures of sun-kissed beaches, crashing waves, and the decadent lifestyles of the characters.



The excitement builds as the plot unfolds, with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The characters are complex and flawed, adding to the authenticity of the story. We witness their struggles, their desires, and their ultimate downfall.



Despite its dark themes, the story also has moments of beauty and redemption. It explores the human condition in all its glory and all its ugliness, leaving the reader with a sense of both satisfaction and unease. This is a tale that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page.

July 14,2025
... Show More
As a recent convert to the love of surfing, I found myself completely engrossed in this book. It was like a modern-day "On the Road" with a surfing twist.

I devoured it, unable to put it down. The author's memoir was not only filled with great surf descriptions but also with personal anecdotes that made it truly engaging.

As I read some of his prose, I could practically feel the waves beneath me, as if I was right there in the water. It was an amazing experience.

For those who don't surf, this book offers a unique opportunity to get a taste of the sport without actually getting wet. It's a great way to understand the passion and excitement that comes with surfing.

And for those of us who do surf but are as landlocked as I am, it's the next best thing. It allows us to relive our surfing experiences and dream of the next time we'll be able to catch a wave.

Overall, I highly recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in surfing or just enjoys a good memoir. It's a must-read for any surfing enthusiast.
July 14,2025
... Show More

Good read, although the resolution let me down.


Synopsis: This is an autobiographical story of a man who has dedicated his life to traveling the globe and surfing. He financed his surf expeditions first as a pot smuggler and later as a screenwriter. The story commences when he sells all his possessions in the'real' world and departs with his dog, truck, and camper, surfing his way through Mexico and Central America in pursuit of a surf buddy who had embarked on a similar journey five years earlier. Along the way, he has interesting encounters with surfers, banditos, and druggies.


I've never surfed, and yet this book managed to make me fall in love with surfing. It painted a vivid picture of the excitement, the freedom, and the beauty that comes with riding the waves. The author's descriptions of the different surfing locations and the challenges he faced were so detailed that I could almost feel the saltwater on my skin and the wind in my hair. Despite the flaws in the resolution, this book is a must-read for anyone who has a passion for adventure and a love for the ocean.

July 14,2025
... Show More
This book was penned by a surfer hailing from Montauk Long Island. He makes a decision to embark on a surfing adventure around the world in search of a lost friend.

The accounts presented throughout the book are nothing short of fabulous. They are high-seas tales that involve pot smuggling in South America, surfing Salsa Bravo in Costa Rica, and tangling with banditos. Truly, the book is great.

Allan ultimately finds his friend, only to uncover that he has become a crack addict and is in need of some assistance. The story of Christopher is rather a melancholy one.

I am most definitely going to obtain the sequel to this book, Cosmic Banditos. For anyone with a love for the shoreline, this is a captivating story that is sure to engage and entertain.
July 14,2025
... Show More
I love the search.

Searching has become an essential part of my daily life. It allows me to find information quickly and efficiently. Whether I'm looking for answers to academic questions, researching for a project, or simply seeking entertainment, the search engine is my go-to tool.

With just a few keywords, I can access a wealth of knowledge and resources. The ability to search the internet has opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me. It has broadened my horizons and enabled me to learn about different cultures, ideas, and perspectives.

I also appreciate the convenience of the search function. I can search from anywhere, at any time, using my smartphone, tablet, or computer. This means that I can get the information I need whenever I need it, without having to wait or go to a specific location.

In conclusion, I love the search because it empowers me with knowledge and enables me to connect with the world around me. It is a valuable tool that I will continue to use and rely on in the future.
July 14,2025
... Show More
I read this book several years ago and truly enjoyed it.

I have a great affinity for the travel log style of writing, and the stories about the surf spots in Central America were particularly captivating.

The surfing culture has held a special allure for me ever since the mid-60's. Perhaps growing up listening to Jan & Dean or the Beach Boys played a role in this.

I vividly remember going to watch the "cult movie" Endless Summer at the Playboy Theater in the summer of 1967.

This past summer, in 2012, I was in New Buffalo, Mich., and I came across a surf shop that advertised Lake Michigan as "the third coast."

The surf culture has evolved significantly since 1967.

The book managed to bring back all those youthful longings and memories.

The author's description of that last long ride on a disappearing wall of ocean energy was simply amazing.

It was a really good read that left a lasting impression on me.

July 14,2025
... Show More
Wow.

This was truly one of those books that I became overly invested in before I even realized just how bad it actually was.

As a result, I indeed skipped the middle third of the book in an attempt to minimize my personal suffering.

In his memoir about a mid-life crisis road/surf trip to Mexico, the author, Allan Weisbecker, somehow manages to show his readers just how arrogant and self-possessed he really is, all while hiding behind the pretense of "surfer cool".

I would occasionally find myself reading certain excerpts aloud to my boyfriend, completely unable to understand just how ridiculously Weisbecker portrays himself.

My advice is to stay far away from "Captain Zero"; it's simply yet another B-rate portrayal of a rather pathetic surfer.

Don't waste your time on this one.

There are far better books out there that can offer a more genuine and engaging reading experience.

Save your money and your energy for something that will truly touch your heart and mind.

Trust me on this one.
July 14,2025
... Show More
I only managed to get approximately halfway through this book.

The repetitive surf stories began to bore me, so I decided to start a different book and never returned to this one.

However, I must admit that I am amazed by some of the stories he tells regarding his less-than-legal escapades.

It makes me wonder why he would admit to such things in a book.

Apparently, enough time has elapsed that he can no longer be arrested (or perhaps he is fabricating the stories as he goes along??).

I might simply skip to the last 20 pages or so to see where this author is attempting to take his story.

Maybe there will be some unexpected twists or revelations that will make the whole reading experience worthwhile.

Otherwise, it seems like this book will remain unfinished on my shelf.

July 14,2025
... Show More
Yeah, a surf book. It's really hard to resist the allure of a surf book. However, there's a catch, and that catch is the author.

All the surfers in the crowd have come across people in the lineup similar to the author - those crusty, testosterone-fueled, self-important individuals. Half of them would rather shout "Kook!" from beneath the cliff than actually go surfing.

Well, unfortunately, in my opinion, this is the little niche into which I can place the protagonist. It's a decent tale, especially in the way it portrays surfing as a combination of salvation and damnation. But really, only read this if you are motivated by surfing.

Perhaps the author's style and the characters he creates might not appeal to everyone. But for those who have a passion for the waves and understand the unique culture and dynamics of the surfing community, this book could offer some interesting insights and entertainment.

It's important to note that everyone's perception of a book can vary, and what one person might find engaging, another might not. So, if you're a non-surfer or not particularly interested in the surfing world, you might want to think twice before picking up this book.

On the other hand, if you're a die-hard surfer or someone who is curious about the subculture of surfing, then this book could be worth a read. It might not be a literary masterpiece, but it does have its moments and could potentially add to your understanding and appreciation of the surfing lifestyle.

In conclusion, while the author and the way he presents the story might have its flaws, the overall concept of the book and its exploration of the duality of surfing make it an interesting read for the right audience.
July 14,2025
... Show More
Surfing is an exciting and thrilling experience that many people dream of having.

It allows you to ride the waves and feel the power of the ocean beneath your feet.

The feeling of gliding through the water, catching a wave, and being carried along is truly indescribable.

If you want to have a great surfing experience, Mexico is an excellent destination.

With its beautiful beaches and consistent waves, Mexico offers something for surfers of all levels.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you will find plenty of opportunities to improve your skills and have fun in the water.

In addition to surfing, Mexico also has a rich culture and history, delicious food, and friendly people.

So, if you are looking for an adventure that combines surfing with culture and relaxation, Mexico is the perfect place to go.

I can't wait to go to Mexico and experience the thrill of surfing for myself.

July 14,2025
... Show More
To make this unique drink, here are the ingredients and steps:

You need 1 oz of Hunter S. Thompson (preferred in the gonzo style), which adds a touch of wildness and eccentricity. Then, 2 oz of Joseph Conrad, either from "Lord Jim" or "Heart of Darkness", bringing in the depth and complexity of his works. Next, 1/2 oz of Jack Kerouac, adding a sense of adventure and freedom. Finally, 1 oz of Jimmy Buffet lyrics to give it a light and breezy flavor. Shake all these ingredients well with ice and pour them into a highball glass. Then, simply sip and enjoy the wonderful combination.

This book is truly enjoyable for a myriad of reasons. The author is an outstanding writer who has the ability to keep the pages turning. If you have a penchant for "journey" stories, this one ranks among the best. The author constantly pays homage to Conrad with blatant imitations of "Heart of Darkness", but he is aware of this and openly acknowledges it.

I have never surfed before, and this book has further inspired me to buy a board and take the plunge the next time I am near the beach.

I have a weakness for these types of books that take you on a journey, leading you down a rarely trodden path. It is also beneficial when the author is a seasoned and experienced writer who can guide you on that journey towards self-redemption.

I must express my gratitude to a good friend (who is an avid surfer!) for loaning this book to me!
Leave a Review
You must be logged in to rate and post a review. Register an account to get started.