Saltwater Cure: True stories of the transformative power of the ocean

by Ali Gripper

Life-affirming true stories about the power of the ocean for transformation and healing and why it's so important for us to protect it.

The cure for anything is salt sweat, tears or the sea. – Karen Blixen

The ocean is an icon of our summer holidays and a place of happy memories – and there's no wonder why. Swimming in and being near salt water has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, boost immunity and even slow the signs of ageing. But that's just the physical side.

Saltwater Cure draws on compelling, life-affirming stories about the healing power of the ocean – whether it be a balm for mental health, a comfort for an autistic child, the start of a lifelong environmental passion or a path to building community and escaping loneliness. Journalist Ali Gripper shares the experiences of people who have been transformed by the ocean, including author Tim Winton, surfer and blue-health advocate Layne Beachley, conservationist and underwater cinematographer Valerie Taylor, solo sailor Jessica Watson, First Nations scientist and dolphin-singer Chels Marshall, blind swimmer James Pittar, Swim Sisters founder Yusra Metwally and many others.

All speak honestly about the ocean's ability to not only provide solace and comfort, but to help them find strength in themselves and make the most of living connected to nature. The ocean, they all say, is one of our great treasures and worthy of our protection – and it's where they feel most at home. Saltwater Cure reminds us of nature's restorative power and will inspire us all to preserve the beauty of our oceans for future generations to enjoy.

Genres: Nonfiction

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 3, 2024

Reviews

[Hayley Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 🌟’s
Ughhh this was such a soul nourishing read!! I’ve always felt so intrinsically connected to the ocean, and so reading about how it’s influenced other people’s lives in different ways was just magic.
Such a testament to the power it possesses to positively influence so many facets of life; couldn’t recommend this read more for anyone who also feels that pull 🌊🩵

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was disapppointed in this book because I mistakenly thought that the people in the book would have written their own stories, especially when someone like Tim Winton is featured. It is, however, a life-affirming account of how the ocean has enriched, and even saved, many people's lives.

[Renee Short · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was beautiful to read about different people's connections to the ocean. We are so lucky to live in Australia and experience this beautiful part of the world.

[Tennille Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy and lovely little beach read

[Alexandra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Such a cute read 🐬

[Suzie B · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly wonderful book extolling the virtues of sea water and the energy, re-charging and affinity with nature which we have when being in contact with it. Each chapter is about a different person, some high profile, some not, and their relationship with the ocean. There is an overall theme of self nourishment, respect for nature as well as that of environmentalism. I definitely need to go for a swim after being inspired by these stories.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved all these stories and made many connections to the sea for myself.i was constantly diving into Google looking for more information and explanation
The writing is rather pedestrian as it really is a recount of interviews, I love Tim Wintons writing and would love to have had his response in his own words.( Blueback has beautiful description). I loved all these stories but was especially interested in the final one that told us of the work done by the artists of Erub Island in the Torres Straight. The people are using “ghost nets” washed up around their islands to tell the story of the magnificent creatures that the live with in the oceans

[Emily Perrins · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bit disappointed, honestly, but it wasn't a long read so it wasn't overly difficult to get through. As a recent convert to ocean swimming, I was expecting a read that delved more into the science/philosophy behind why the ocean makes us feel so energised.

I appreciated the varied perspectives offered by such big names as Tim Winton and Layne Beachley, but these didn't go into much detail and read like answers to interview questions that could've been lifted from any publication. Nevertheless, I did enjoy reading the section that focused on Jessica Watson, the youngest person to sail around the world solo (at 16). Inspiring stuff - but not necessarily what I was expecting from this book.

[Carolyn Stearns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saltwater Cure by: Ali Gripper
Book Review

I just finished reading Saltwater Cure. I pity those who do not live near the sea. I am an hour from the sea and love to venture there when my soul needs replenishing. I envy those who have homes or cottages along the coast, they are able to recharge life’s batteries frequently. Author Ali Gripper understands this need to connect with the primal force of life. Saltwater Cure is a collection of stories of people who have found that great connection with the sea and seen profound effects from the interaction.
My favorite story in the book came at the end. The artists and locals of the island Erub, off the coast of Australia use sea pollution old nets and fishing line to make masterpieces depicting the creatures whose home was “trashed” by nets cut or torn away from their fishing vessel. These nets ensnare and kill many sea creatures so actively collecting and repurposing them saves marine lives. I have seen many videos of whales, seals and other marine life being cut from fishing debris. I am so happy to hear of this group that actively helps save our seas by creating art from the detritus.
If you yearn for days by the sea, are drawn to the ebb and flow of waves, dream of sand, salt and spray, this book is for you. I picked my copy up at a bookstore down near the sea. It was published 2024 by Murdoch Books.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a harsh critic, and there are very few books that are up there for me, but this one is truly in my top 3 books. I could go so far as to say it will change the way I approach life this year and the way I think about the world. Each and every short story was absolutely amazing. I teared up at least at one point during all of them (and I don’t cry!). The power of the ocean, and the healing qualities of salt water are routinely spoken of, and this book puts it cogently into words. I particularly enjoyed the stories of Jessica Watson (teenage female solo sailor), Layne Beachley (pro surfer), James Pittar (blind ocean marathon swimmer) and Valerie Taylor (oceanographer). I also enjoyed the diversity of this book across cultural backgrounds and abilities. This book also puts into perspective how precious life and nature is. We take it for granted. It can be there one moment, and gone the next. We must cherish each special moment and be in that moment. 120% recommend. Everyone, particularly those that live by the water, should read this book.

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

As someone who had spent the vast part of her life as a city dweller, but who had always felt inextricably drawn to the sea, this book was irresistible. Ali Gripper is Australian, and all her stories originate from this vast country with a huge coastline. I learnt a lot about the people, culture and landscape. I've moved to the the North Norfolk coast in recent years, so it was interesting to make comparisons. I love swimming and the sea, but am naturally cautious. So some of the feats of endurance recounted in the author's interview felt less inspirational and more overwhelming. I was more interested in the therapeutic and artistic endeavours. The final chapter featuring the Erub Arts Centre was by far my favourite. It's a pity there weren't any illustrations or photographs featuring the individuals, settings or projects featured. That felt like the only things lacking for me. But nonetheless a thought provoking read.

[Stuart Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ali Gripper interviews a diverse group of people about their thoughts and connections with the sea. From the healing properties of being immersed in salt water to the fear felt by crusader solo sailor Jessica Watson, each of the stories are heartfelt, real, and uplifting. I especially loved reading the stories of the First Nations people who created a solution out of a problem: creating artwork from discarded commercial fishing nets to raise awareness of this issue while also providing a source of income and pride. An easy read, done in a day!

[Deedee · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was a little disappointed in this book, probably because I mistakenly thought each section was written by the individuals, relaying their stories about their relationship with the ocean. It was instead written as a series of interviews. I found the author’s writing a little heavy on cliches and lacking individual style. The interviewees had some amazing stories to tell though. I just found the writing a little grating.

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is good - but it’s extremely Sydney-centric. Surely the author could’ve ventured out a little further than Sydney to interview 90% of her book? The chapter by Tim Winton was excellent as was the chapter on Erub Arts. Just found myself sighing opening up another chapter that was based off someone living in Sydney - no mention of anyone living in Victoria, South Australia, NT, Tassie?? There’s so many more stories the author could’ve shared from across Australia.

[Chelsea Bland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish it was a little longer. So be more in depth with each individual stories. This book really did begin to inspire me but feel like I haven’t gotten enough to run with.
I would also love it if the author featured how or where we as the readers can go to be physically involved with some of the interviewers causes and learn ourselves how to get involved.

[Susan McCabe · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a powerful book. Although I am more of a forest than an ocean person, the messages of the healing power of nature are so true for both habitats. More importantly, the need for humans to change their habits in an effort to preserve our natural environments is imperative.

[Farrells Bookshop · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stories about the healing power of the ocean and why it is so vital for us to protect it. After reading this I felt like diving straight into the ocean and never hopping out.

Read by Sage and Suzie

[Hollie · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars

[George Taifalos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved the form of short chapters and stories. Had a great message throughout the book and made me want to jump in the ocean every time I picked it up)

[Rona · Rating 4 out of 5]

lovely book- reminded me how much I love the ocean. it was inspiring, fascinating and a good series of stories pulled together.

[Katie Steuerwald · Rating 4 out of 5]

great to hear about how the ocean has changed these people's lives

[Sas Mac]

a nice mix of different perspectives about the transformative power of the ocean

[Berni · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant, inspiring book.

[Rosie Frasc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going to upload some of my fave quotes from this… highly recommend this non fiction book which gave insight into so many lives touched and changed for the better by the sea. ❤️

[Missa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked up The Saltwater Cure over the Christmas break, and it turned out to be the perfect read to ease back into reading after life had gotten a bit hectic. Ali Gripper has written a book that feels like a collection of conversations with people who share a deep connection to the ocean—whether it’s for healing, adventure, or simply a way of life. It’s an easy, engaging read that had me reflecting on my own memories growing up by the sea.

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