THROUGHOUT HISTORY THERE HAVE BEEN HORRIBLE TIMES AND PLACES TO BE ALIVE...THIS IS NOT THAT STORY

The Cradle of Bitchin is a firsthand account of one of the most wonderful decades in human history to be young and alive. It is a tale of how older beach boys, lifeguards, and watermen prepared youngsters to navigate the dangerous shoals of adolescence. Not only did the author learn how to surf, dive, sail and prepare the ocean's extensive bounty, he was taught a deep respect for the sea's power and moods.

When asked how he was able to rise above a challenging home situation, the author credits the influence of growing up in Ocean Beach, California more than half-a-century ago. It was in this locale and era when elders mentored youngsters---many from single parent families---into the way of the "Waterman." Following this path, Lee Brown and others learned basic oceanic skills, respect for the sea, and a code of ethics preparing them to meet life's challenges just over the horizon.

The Cradle of Bitchin shares the humor, tragedy, trials and errors the author experienced in his youth and provides an insight into how the sea and its mentors instilled a sense of awe, joy and wonder that has served him well. The characters are quirky and delightful; its lessons insightful. This book is a window into an infectious way of life that spread from the Cradle to influence the rest of America and beyond.