Amy Mason Doan, a journalist-turned-novelist from California, has published four novels including her latest, The California Dreamers, which celebrates 1980s surf culture. The story follows the Merrick family—who live in their van and embody a non-conformist lifestyle—as seen through the eyes of Cap's daughter, Ronan. The narrative alternates between Ronan's teenage years in 1983 and her life as an adult in 2002, unveiling the complexities of her father's strict regime juxtaposed with his ideals of freedom. A pivotal moment occurs when a photograph of the family goes viral, challenging their secluded existence.
I couldn't stand it anymore. My big brother wouldn't have come here after a decade and a half without a serious reason. "Griff. You have news, don't you?"
Cap tells his kids he's giving them freedom, a life untroubled by the folly of conventional society. But he also enforces strict rules about where the Merricks go.
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