not a babe

Sarah Johnson’s young adult novel 'not a babe' is a punchy, fast-paced read about a close-knit New Zealand surf town. It follows Jerri, a talented fifteen-year-old surfer who is happy to live in the shadow of her family’s legendary surfing heritage. But everyday sexism, casual catcalls, and a reckless dare from a group of boys finally push her too far and Jerri takes a dare to ride a dangerous local break and sets off a chain reaction that forces her out of hiding and into the spotlight.

Johnson tackles some heavy issues but keeps the story moving along briskly. The descriptions of ocean waves are vivid and electric. It’s a quick, high-energy page-turner that pulls you right into the water whether you surf or not. Underneath the fun of the waves, this book has a strong, important message about rejecting double standards, defending yourself, and not hiding your talents to fit into someone else’s small box. It speaks to that universal struggle that so many people have: the tension between wanting to stay comfortably invisible and knowing that you have to speak up.

'not a babe' is an empowering story with one central message: life is too short to spend it looking for approval, living double standards, or letting fear keep you small. It’s a fast, compelling reminder to take up your space, find your voice, and ride your own wave.