Question 1

What is The Secret History of the Ollie about?

Accepted Answer

It’s a deep dive into how skateboarding got to the ollie, and what the world looked like before it existed. Snyder walks through the years leading up to it and the whole search for getting air on a skateboard by any means necessary. It’s basically the 1970s “Big Bang” of modern skating.

Question 2

Does the book explain how Alan Gelfand invented the ollie?

Accepted Answer

If you’re wondering how Alan Gelfand came up with the ollie, this book is aimed right at that question. It builds the historical picture of the era and the progression that led to a true no-handed air. It’s not just a quick mention—it’s the whole lead-up.

Question 3

Why was the ollie so important to skateboarding?

Accepted Answer

Without the ollie, modern skateboarding wouldn’t exist the way we know it. I even say it’s quite possible skateboarding could’ve died out as a fad without that breakthrough. It’s hard to imagine now, but the book really shows how big that shift was.

Question 4

What were skaters doing before the ollie to get air?

Accepted Answer

People tried everything—gimmicks for attaching the board to your feet, gripping the board barefoot with stuff like Gorilla Grip, and even using your hands with a Bunny Hop. The goal was always the same: get airborne without cheating it. The real holy grail was a no-handed air.

Question 5

Is The Secret History of the Ollie worth reading if I like skate history?

Accepted Answer

Yeah—if you’re into old school history, this is the good stuff. It’s over 900 pages, so it’s not light reading, but it’s packed with detail. I like that it doesn’t just focus on the trick—it gives the whole scene context.

Question 6

Does the book talk about 1970s skateparks and ramps?

Accepted Answer

It does, and that’s one of the coolest parts. The book gives life to the mid-to-late 70s skateparks and ramps, and honestly they sound awesome. It makes you wish you could time-travel with your current setup.

Question 7

Where can I buy The Secret History of the Ollie book?

Accepted Answer

You can grab it at http://www.olliebook.com. That’s the direct link I share for Craig’s book. If you’re a history nerd or just love the roots of skating, it’s a solid pickup.

Old School Skateboard Book Review! The Secret History of the Ollie by Craig B. Snyder

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