Catching Waves: A Board, a Pig, and How a Little Girl Became a Wakesurf Champion

by Dawn Marie Hooks

Award-winning children’s book Catching Waves tells the inspiring true story of Raleigh Hager, who—with determination and dreams of a pet mini pig—made history as the youngest professional World Wakesurf Champion.

From her very first surfboard ride at age five to discovering wakesurfing on a nearby lake, Raleigh’s journey is full of crashes, comebacks, and courage. With every wave, she proves that even the littlest dreamers can achieve big goals, encouraging young readers to DREAM BIG, face challenges, and ride the waves of life.

Written and illustrated by Dawn Marie Hooks—World Champion wakesurfer, award-winning author, artist, and teacher—Catching Waves pairs lively storytelling with vibrant watercolor illustrations, capturing the thrill of wakesurfing while sharing the true story of a young girl who found the strength to follow her dreams.

Author’s Notes
• A playful glossary of wakesurf lingo so readers of all ages can catch the stoke
• Fun facts about Raleigh’s record-breaking achievements
• Behind-the-scenes insights into researching and writing this nonfiction picture book

Young readers (ages 5-9)
• Explore an inspirational nonfiction picture book biography of a young athlete making history as a world champion
• Discover the joy of wakesurfing and water sports while gaining real-world knowledge
• Learn the value of grit, determination, resilience, and pursuing dreams
• Spark meaningful classroom and family discussions about goal-setting, perseverance, and self-confidence

Perfect for parents, teachers, librarians and sports-loving kids, Catching Waves sparks conversations about grit, courage, and sportsmanship—whether at school, at home, or beyond.

Part of the Brave Little Hearts Series™, which celebrates everyday courage as children face life’s joys, questions, and challenges.
Collect all the
• I’ll Hold You An Adoption Story
• Grandpa A Story of Hope in the Midst of Illness
• Sarah and Her Twirling Toes
• Catching A Board, a Pig, and How a Little Girl Became a Wakesurf Champion

Kindle Edition

Published August 6, 2024

Reviews

[S.A. Krishnan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raleigh Hager’s inspirational story
Raleigh wanted to be a surfer girl since the age of five. With her parent’s help, she begins to learn and practice too. She wants a pet pig too. What does she have to do for it?
Inspirational story with apt illustrations to tell children to what their heart desires and practice for it.

[JOLIE MOLINO · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a little(or a lot) hard work and determination, you can make your dreams a reality.

An inspiring true story about living your dream. How hard work, determination and and a strong desire for a pet pig help you achieve the goals you have set for yourself, no matter how old you are.

[Dawn Traylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

cool story

A good read based on a true story. Loved the end of the book that showed us the real life Raleigh. The one thing that didn’t really go with the story is the part about the pig. Everything else was great.

[Rebecca Hannath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent story about a girl who has grit and tenacity. She dreams big, but more importantly, she has the willpower and work ethic to turn those dreams into reality. This story is inspiring and heartwarming. It is a powerful reminder that with grit and tenacity, one can overcome any obstacle and make their dreams come true.

[J.B. Hager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really fun story and a great inspiration for young kids.