Skateboards (1) (Made by Hand)

This inviting non-fiction book is a brief and easy-to-read history of skateboarding. It is nicely accompanied by the story of an enthusiast, Jake Eshelman, who builds skateboards on the side, and the step-by-step process of his craft. The text is balanced with engaging photos, both old school and new. Antiquated clipart, pencil scratch marks, and tools of the trade are imposed on graph paper to achieve an inside-the-workshop feeling. Readers are dutifully challenged to find their passion and make something with their own hands. A four-page timeline and a glossary rounds out this volume and completes its vintage packaging. While it is not likely this book will appeal to all young skateboarders, it will draw young DIYers who will appreciate the beauty of raw materials and hand-made craftsmanship.

32 pages long. Describes how “Jake” builds skateboards by clamping solid hardwood boards together. Any home wood worker could figure this out without this book. No surprises, no revelations. Some lame skateboard history and a short biography of “Jake”. Bleh. Good for a young (clueless) kid, I suppose. Glad I got a deal buying a used version. “The Handmade Skateboard” by Matt Berger is a MUCH better book. Offers all sorts of usable information on different methods of building boards. THE comprehensive treatise on the subject.