Recommended by the United States Surfing Federation as a book that every beginning surfer should read, Surfer's Start Up: A Beginner's Guide to Surfing (Second Edition), details the basics of surfing gear, conditions, safety, etiquette and history.  Written by someone who went through the learning process, topics are covered with enough detail to get the reader riding waves quickly and safely.  It teaches the beginner surfer the fundamentals of the sport and what to expect in the first days of learning such as how to cope with waves, learning frustrations and crowds.

A must read for anyone learning how to surf.  The second edition has been updated with the latest information on equipment, technique and resources.