Summary
"Crazy for the Storm" is a gripping memoir by Norman Ollestad, recounting his harrowing experience as an 11-year-old boy who survived a plane crash in the San Bernardino Mountains in 1979. The book delves into the complex relationship between Norman and his father, a larger-than-life figure who pushed him to excel in extreme sports like skiing and surfing. Their bond, forged through rigorous training and a shared love for adventure, becomes the bedrock of Norman's resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
The story begins by painting a vivid picture of Norman's unconventional childhood, shaped by his father's passion for pushing boundaries. From skiing treacherous slopes to surfing towering waves, Norman is constantly challenged to overcome his fears and embrace the thrill of the storm. This relentless pursuit of excellence, while sometimes bordering on recklessness, instills in him a deep sense of self-reliance and a never-give-up attitude.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when the small chartered plane carrying Norman, his father, and his father's girlfriend crashes into a mountainside during a snowstorm. Norman, though injured, finds himself the sole survivor and must confront the harsh reality of his father's death and the daunting task of finding his way back to safety. The memoir vividly captures the brutal conditions of the wilderness, the physical and emotional challenges Norman faces, and his unwavering determination to survive.
As Norman navigates the treacherous terrain, battling exhaustion, hunger, and the elements, he draws upon the lessons his father instilled in him. He recalls his father's emphasis on technique, mental fortitude, and the importance of pushing through fear. These memories serve as a guiding force, helping him to make critical decisions and persevere against all odds. Interwoven with the survival narrative are flashbacks that explore the complexities of Norman's relationship with his father, revealing both the love and admiration he felt, as well as the resentment and pressure that sometimes arose from his father's demanding nature.
Beyond the immediate struggle for survival, "Crazy for the Storm" is a story about grief, resilience, and the search for meaning in the aftermath of tragedy. Norman's journey is not only a physical one but also an emotional one, as he grapples with the loss of his father and attempts to make sense of his own identity. The memoir is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and the transformative potential of adversity.
Ultimately, "Crazy for the Storm" is a powerful and moving story that celebrates the bond between father and son, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of finding one's own path in the face of life's inevitable storms.