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Chasing Mavericks: The Movie Novelization
Based on the inspirational true story of surfing icon Jay Moriarity, Chasing Mavericks tells the story of a young man's quest to surf Northern California's most dangerous waves, and the local legend who takes him under his wing. What begins as a mentorship turns into a unique bond, as the two unlikely friends discover that there is nothing more powerful than pushing your limits and chasing a nearly impossible dream.
256 pages, ebook
First published September 18, 2012
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262 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
March 2, 2016
Chasing Mavericks is a true story about a young surfer named Jay Moriarity. He is inspired by a local legend that surfs a forty foot wave called, mavericks. He trains with this surfer to chase after mavericks.
I thought this book was very inspiring. This book was good but it didn't get exciting until the ending. I would recommend this book who wants to learn about the life of Jay Moriarity.
I thought this book was very inspiring. This book was good but it didn't get exciting until the ending. I would recommend this book who wants to learn about the life of Jay Moriarity.
December 7, 2012
Not something I usually read, but it was a nice sweet surprise to find it was better than I thought it would be.
April 25, 2020
- this is a v straightforward mentor-mentee amateur to pro story
- supposedly q an inspiring story which i do agree with but it's a v standard cookie cutter message abt family and chasing ur dreams
- it's a quick read so read it if you like short books i guess
- supposedly q an inspiring story which i do agree with but it's a v standard cookie cutter message abt family and chasing ur dreams
- it's a quick read so read it if you like short books i guess
August 13, 2024
Based on the true life story of young surfer Jay Moriarity, (I also highly recommend the movie). Perfect combination of learning to surf monster waves, and human components of life and relationships outside of surfing. Highly recommended.
August 31, 2020
it was good and inspiring
January 23, 2023
Can't wait to watch the movie :)
Read
August 11, 2018It starts very much like the movie and I could almost hear Gerard Butler saying what he says at the beginning that we come from the sea and we go back to the sea those of us born to the sea or something very much like that.
The first pages are about Jay as he realizes that this time he will not survive having stayed too long under the water and his thoughts are about the people he cares for, Kim, his mother and Frosty.
Then we read about young Jay counting the waves and rescuing Sophie, Kim's dog and needing rescuing himself. His first meeting with Frosty who hauls him onto the safety of his paddleboard.
The author did a good novelization but seems to have put some of the scenes taking place in the movie before some actually happened.
In any case I enjoyed it. Made me love all over again this movie so many need to see even if they are not surfers at heart. This is the story of a young man who could have become a hoodlum as all the right elements were there in his life for that. He had the bullies trashing him, the single mom deep in depression over being abandoned and whom he had to babysit literally at 15. He had the young girlfriend he was close to as a child and whom he grew up falling in love with though she was shy about being seen with a boy younger than her.
Jay Moriarty found a new dad in Frosty Hesson making of Frosty a better man and helping him opening up and learning how to be more open about his feelings. Brenda may have been in his life but shortly but she was the one who told him that there are all kind of sons, some are born to us and others happen to us and she was right.
I came out of that theater on October 26, 2012 wanting to learn more about that incredible young man Jay Moriarty who kind of knew he wouldn't live to be old and who died so tragically at the age of 22.
Yet I had to go in to watch a different Gerard Butler than the one I became a fan of. My favorite actor was a chameleon who unfortunately Hollywood seems to have wanted to turn into the sheep they are so used to.
How that movie never was liked by critics, I don't get it as this was one of the best biography I've seen on screen. It was well directed, well acted, the scenes were awesome. I found myself wanting to get on a surfboard and get that feeling of grace and be one with the sea for a slight moment.
Gerard Butler was one of the producers of that movie and he could have tried during the whole movie to eclipse the young man he casts to play Jay but he didn't, he only was there like the real Frosty was.
Basically even though Christine Peymani seems to have put some scenes at different places, I still recommend her novelization. I don't remember Blond writing the "Live like Jay", this seems added up but it's OK.
I know I started describing a bit the story but basically if you saw the film, you did not need me describing it. It's very much the same thing as the movie. How Jay and Frosty meets with Frosty saving his life, Frosty giving both children a scolding for putting their lives in danger, Frosty obviously having some trouble being the father he should be to his own 2 young children, Jay having to care for his mom who is a wreck since her husband left them, Jay helping her not to lose her job again and even working hard to help her financially and at the same time trying to finally live his dream of riding Mavericks, finally getting from Kim the declaration that she has always felt he was the one and that they'd be together, of helping Frosty survives Brenda's death up to the moment where Jay entered into legend by being the youngest surfer to ride Mavericks and survive them, even getting Sonny to stop bullying him. I had read about Jay Moriarty's passing years before the movie but didn't really pay attention to it but the name was familiar when I saw the movie. It had said in the papers "Jay Moriarty, champion surfer dead at 22". I guess it was the age that had caught my attention. All I can add is to do your research about Jay Moriarty gone too soon at 22 during a diving accident at the Maldives.
Yes, those who push the limits may find at some point that the limits can push back. LIVE LIKE JAY!
The first pages are about Jay as he realizes that this time he will not survive having stayed too long under the water and his thoughts are about the people he cares for, Kim, his mother and Frosty.
Then we read about young Jay counting the waves and rescuing Sophie, Kim's dog and needing rescuing himself. His first meeting with Frosty who hauls him onto the safety of his paddleboard.
The author did a good novelization but seems to have put some of the scenes taking place in the movie before some actually happened.
In any case I enjoyed it. Made me love all over again this movie so many need to see even if they are not surfers at heart. This is the story of a young man who could have become a hoodlum as all the right elements were there in his life for that. He had the bullies trashing him, the single mom deep in depression over being abandoned and whom he had to babysit literally at 15. He had the young girlfriend he was close to as a child and whom he grew up falling in love with though she was shy about being seen with a boy younger than her.
Jay Moriarty found a new dad in Frosty Hesson making of Frosty a better man and helping him opening up and learning how to be more open about his feelings. Brenda may have been in his life but shortly but she was the one who told him that there are all kind of sons, some are born to us and others happen to us and she was right.
I came out of that theater on October 26, 2012 wanting to learn more about that incredible young man Jay Moriarty who kind of knew he wouldn't live to be old and who died so tragically at the age of 22.
Yet I had to go in to watch a different Gerard Butler than the one I became a fan of. My favorite actor was a chameleon who unfortunately Hollywood seems to have wanted to turn into the sheep they are so used to.
How that movie never was liked by critics, I don't get it as this was one of the best biography I've seen on screen. It was well directed, well acted, the scenes were awesome. I found myself wanting to get on a surfboard and get that feeling of grace and be one with the sea for a slight moment.
Gerard Butler was one of the producers of that movie and he could have tried during the whole movie to eclipse the young man he casts to play Jay but he didn't, he only was there like the real Frosty was.
Basically even though Christine Peymani seems to have put some scenes at different places, I still recommend her novelization. I don't remember Blond writing the "Live like Jay", this seems added up but it's OK.
I know I started describing a bit the story but basically if you saw the film, you did not need me describing it. It's very much the same thing as the movie. How Jay and Frosty meets with Frosty saving his life, Frosty giving both children a scolding for putting their lives in danger, Frosty obviously having some trouble being the father he should be to his own 2 young children, Jay having to care for his mom who is a wreck since her husband left them, Jay helping her not to lose her job again and even working hard to help her financially and at the same time trying to finally live his dream of riding Mavericks, finally getting from Kim the declaration that she has always felt he was the one and that they'd be together, of helping Frosty survives Brenda's death up to the moment where Jay entered into legend by being the youngest surfer to ride Mavericks and survive them, even getting Sonny to stop bullying him. I had read about Jay Moriarty's passing years before the movie but didn't really pay attention to it but the name was familiar when I saw the movie. It had said in the papers "Jay Moriarty, champion surfer dead at 22". I guess it was the age that had caught my attention. All I can add is to do your research about Jay Moriarty gone too soon at 22 during a diving accident at the Maldives.
Yes, those who push the limits may find at some point that the limits can push back. LIVE LIKE JAY!
February 1, 2013
To me, 'Chasing Maveriks' was one of the most interesting and inspiring book I have ever read. Jim Meenaghan and Brandon Hooper, who originally helped produce this major-motion picture, have gone inside on every detail of Jay Moriarity's action packed life. The book is based on the inspiring journey of a young boy, who's life goal is the concore the massive wave of Mavericks. The novel takes place in the small town of Santa Cruz, California, the birthplace of a legend. Jay Moriarity grew up surfing along the coast of Monterey Bay after a childhood accident their. At the age of six, Jay was running along a cliff when a massive wave came up, washing him under the cruel currents. If it wasn't for one humble man nicknamed 'Frosty', Jay's journey would have never happened. 'Frosty' ended up mentoring Jay to surf a massive wave called 'Mavericks' after Jay spotted 'Frosty' riding one himself. Jay's life is spent training for the one opportunity to surf this wave, but he faced many challenges along the way. Jay lived with his mom in a small house and spent half his day working at 'Pleasure Pizza'. The other half of the day was spent training with 'Frosty' for hours at a time. 'Frosty' teaches Jay valuable lessons along the way, like concurring fear, overcoming challenges, and working both physical and mental strength. Although Jay faces problems socially to. His love life eventually comes through and he ends up marrying the 'girl of his dreams', Kim. Jay's education wasn't the best, as he commonly ditched school to 'get away' from life and collect himself. Lastly, Jay loses friends along the way to grades, drugs, and family. At the end of the novel, Jay concourse his goal and rides the massive wave in a strongly emotional and inspiring way. Sadly, after marrying his girlfriend and ending up big in the surfing world, Jay dies while free-diving in the Maldives. I strongly recommend this book as well as the movie. It really was a great read.
March 9, 2015
"I know this sounds strange, but I've always felt I wouldn't be around very long. Like I was just passing through. Which is why I want to take that drop, why I have to make it. Because once I look down over the edge, and I catch it, I'll become part of it. And in that moment, I'll know that I’m alive.”
Jay Moriarity (1978 - 2001) rose to fame as a sixteen-year-old boy determined to surf Mavericks. Although successful, he was known not only for slaying the giants, but for his unwavering bravery and courage to forgo the impossible.
‘Chasing Mavericks’ is the story of Jay Moriarity and his keen ambition to surf the legendary Mavericks. Frosty, Jay’s long-time idol and neighbour, agrees to train Jay and prepare him for the mother of all monster waves. This is the novelisation of the hit movie of the same title, starring Johnny Weston and Gerard Butler.
I am usually one to read first and watch later, but I had been wanting to see this movie since it was released and when the chance came I took it. I have to say the movie is now one of my favourites, and now, so is this book. It is based on the true story of Jay Moriarity, however, I’d like to believe it is more accurate than creative as it is truly a magical and inspirational tale. The relationship between Jay and Frosty is one of my favourite pairings.
The story is written quite well considering is it an adaptation. Many of the scenes are written to point in regards to the movie, yet Peymani is able to incorporate her own creative flair which only enhances the novelisation.
Jay Moriarity is a true hero, an idol to all. His dedication, determination and courage are lessons that each of us can and should apply to our own personal challenges. Whether it be to go after something you truly want or simply to strive to be the best you can be, don’t be afraid to take that drop and remember to “Live like Jay”.
5 Stars!!
January 9, 2013
This book was written very well. It was a true story turned into a book and a movie. It tells the story of a kid, who since he was eight years old, has wanted to get to know the man who saved his life and inspired him to surf. That man’s name was Frosty. The story is not only about surfing, but the two characters building a relationship. Both of these things have their challenges.
Jay Moriarty met Frosty when he was eight he would have drowned trying to save his best friend’s, Kim, dog’s life. Jay did not even know Frosty existed until that day. From that point on Jay was fascinated by him. Little did Jay know that he lived a few houses away from Frosty. After that Jay started surfing and when he was fifteen he was pretty good too. Then one day Jay saw Frosty loading a red surfboard into his van at four in the morning. He climbed onto the roof quietly and discovered something that was long held secret: Mavericks, Hawaii sized waves off the California coast. Frosty thinks it’s a joke that Jay wants to surf those waves. Then he finally agrees to train Jay if he is seriously committed. Obviously Jay was really excited but it had a lot of risks, such as skipping school, losing his job and even drowning.
Anyone who is interested in surfing or surfs would like Chasing Mavericks. This book was one of my favorites and I will probably read it again. It was inspiring how a kid with nothing was determined and became a legend. If you learn anything from this story it should be never give up. If you ever have an opportunity like this, don’t let it pass by.
Jay Moriarty met Frosty when he was eight he would have drowned trying to save his best friend’s, Kim, dog’s life. Jay did not even know Frosty existed until that day. From that point on Jay was fascinated by him. Little did Jay know that he lived a few houses away from Frosty. After that Jay started surfing and when he was fifteen he was pretty good too. Then one day Jay saw Frosty loading a red surfboard into his van at four in the morning. He climbed onto the roof quietly and discovered something that was long held secret: Mavericks, Hawaii sized waves off the California coast. Frosty thinks it’s a joke that Jay wants to surf those waves. Then he finally agrees to train Jay if he is seriously committed. Obviously Jay was really excited but it had a lot of risks, such as skipping school, losing his job and even drowning.
Anyone who is interested in surfing or surfs would like Chasing Mavericks. This book was one of my favorites and I will probably read it again. It was inspiring how a kid with nothing was determined and became a legend. If you learn anything from this story it should be never give up. If you ever have an opportunity like this, don’t let it pass by.
June 19, 2013
I had caught soundless glimpes of the movie on a little grainy screen on a airplane, making a mental note to watch the full thing when I came home. I never did. But after seeiung the same title appear on a shelf at my local bookstore I smiled and thought. "Awesome! I love movies based on books, I'll read it first then watch the movie!"
It was only until after I purchased the book that I notice the little bit of text dubbing this story a 'novelization' meaning that it is not infact a movie based off of a book but a book based of off a movie. Which usallly turns out as horrible as it sounds.
But thankfully this novilization proved me wrong! I adored it through and through, finishing it in less than 2 days. It was an inspiring, thrilling, relatable, admirable, emotional and romantic story. I still haven't gotten around to the movie yet but I'm even more excited now to watch it. I do recommend you read the book first before the movie however, watching the movie first may hinder the writing's integrity. Also it your copy has movie snapshots in the center like mine did, as tempting as it is DON'T LOOK AT THEM!In my copy one picture lead to a huge spoiler and I was quite upset about it.
It was only until after I purchased the book that I notice the little bit of text dubbing this story a 'novelization' meaning that it is not infact a movie based off of a book but a book based of off a movie. Which usallly turns out as horrible as it sounds.
But thankfully this novilization proved me wrong! I adored it through and through, finishing it in less than 2 days. It was an inspiring, thrilling, relatable, admirable, emotional and romantic story. I still haven't gotten around to the movie yet but I'm even more excited now to watch it. I do recommend you read the book first before the movie however, watching the movie first may hinder the writing's integrity. Also it your copy has movie snapshots in the center like mine did, as tempting as it is DON'T LOOK AT THEM!In my copy one picture lead to a huge spoiler and I was quite upset about it.
November 6, 2014
I LOVED this book! The plot twists and exciting stories always kept me on the edge of my seat. In this book the characters experienced devastation, love, happiness and great friendships. Through out this book, the characters develop strong relationships, but most of all, you will develop an amazing relationship with the characters. You will feel like the characters are your own friends. The many challenges that the characters face will make you realize that anything is possible. This book is truly amazing.
Chasing Mavericks is a true story about Jay Moriarity's amazing story of his quest to surf California's most dangerous and difficult waves. Him and his mentor "Frosty" develop an unlikely friendship as they face their challenges and find out that Jay's nearly impossible dream can be achieved with hard work. This book has many plot twists but the most shocking one occurs at the end of the book when a devastating event happens to Jay. Although this event made me sad, it was this plot twist that made me appreciate the book even more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves surfing.
Chasing Mavericks is a true story about Jay Moriarity's amazing story of his quest to surf California's most dangerous and difficult waves. Him and his mentor "Frosty" develop an unlikely friendship as they face their challenges and find out that Jay's nearly impossible dream can be achieved with hard work. This book has many plot twists but the most shocking one occurs at the end of the book when a devastating event happens to Jay. Although this event made me sad, it was this plot twist that made me appreciate the book even more.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves surfing.
December 14, 2012
Chasing Mavericks is about a boy named Jay Moriarity. Jay is a boy that never lets himself get down… he seems like he is always happy. This is based on a true story. The book is taking place in Santa Cruz, California. One day when he was a counting the waves, he fell in. A man saved his life that day and he realized it was his neighbor. The person that saved his was Frosty. A world famous surfer who surfed gigantic waves. When Jay realized that he wanted to put his life to surfing. He asked Frosty if he would teach Jay how to surf and survive the waves. This led to a perfect bond between a young man and a famous surfer.
I would recommend this book to people who love the water and outdoors. If you are interested in reading a book about a boy who sets his goals and is dedicated to surfing. This book was touching because it was about a boy who grew up in poverty without a dad. He was an only child. He acted like a parent. He took care of his mom and loved her so much. This is an amazing which is a fun read for all ages.
I would recommend this book to people who love the water and outdoors. If you are interested in reading a book about a boy who sets his goals and is dedicated to surfing. This book was touching because it was about a boy who grew up in poverty without a dad. He was an only child. He acted like a parent. He took care of his mom and loved her so much. This is an amazing which is a fun read for all ages.
September 16, 2019
I read 60 pages of In chasing mavericks. Jay and Kim are on a Getty with Kim's dog. They are watching huge mavericks roll by. Then when they are heading back Kim's dog falls and the water. Jay since he liked Kim he jumped in and saved her dog, but he can't get back up. Then a huge maverick comes rolling by about to Jay. Then Frosty an amazing surfer comes by and picked Jay up and they ride a 40-foot wave into shore. This inspired Jay to become a surfer. Then a few days later he finds a destroys board and fixes it up. Then he goes to Santa Barbra to surf. There he met his future friend blonde. They become friends by Blonde pushing Jay into his first successful solo ride.
February 18, 2014
I don't even know where to begin. This story means the world to me. It's so inspiring and teaches you a lot. Like how to believe in yourself or none of this maters or how no matter what you have to stay positive. It was so relatable. Especially how important his mentor is to him and how he grows on him. I feel like everyone should give this a chance. I tell absolutely everyone to read this book or at least watch the movie.
Want to read
January 3, 2020Another great movie and true story about the early death of a legendary surfer in Santa Cruz, CA.
I have not read the book yet, but it was a great movie. For those who know the story of Jay Moriarity from the Santa Cruz, Ca. area and are into Surfing or Skateboarding. The movie is a must see!
The book is on my reading list.
I have not read the book yet, but it was a great movie. For those who know the story of Jay Moriarity from the Santa Cruz, Ca. area and are into Surfing or Skateboarding. The movie is a must see!
The book is on my reading list.
May 13, 2013
wow. this book is really inspiring. and it had some really meaningful quotes in it. I'm pretty sure this is the only book I have ever read where I loved the main character and felt it was right for them to die. it was perfect.
September 11, 2018
Chasing Mavericks is an amazing story about how you should always fallow your dreams and never give up. In this story we get to see Jay change and grow until he is finally ready for the biggest wave of his life.
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September 28, 2012Good story
December 29, 2013
887 - 2013
Read
August 31, 2016I'm so glad to read this book !
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews