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Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I always heard of Moe Norman and his great ability to hit a golf ball but never had a chance to read a good account of his life. Anecdotes about Norman are legendary: He hit 800-1,000 practice balls a day; struck 1,500 perfectly straight drives in one day; had hitting four to six pins in a round of golf as a goal; and to try and set a course record the first time he played a course.
I always heard of Moe Norman and his great ability to hit a golf ball but never had a chance to read a good account of his life. Anecdotes about Norman are legendary: He hit 800-1,000 practice balls a day; struck 1,500 perfectly straight drives in one day; had hitting four to six pins in a round of golf as a goal; and to try and set a course record the first time he played a course.
Kevin Cook's "Tommy's Honor: The Story of Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris, Golf's Founding Father and Son" has been named the recipient of the United States Golf Association's 2007 Herbert Warren Wind Book Award.
We get a lot of emails from people from around the world, but one of the most humorous we've received in awhile came this week. The original 16 chapters to this "Useful Golf Book" contained only 16 chapters. But Chris Kretz, the Customization Manager for Footlocker.com/Eastbay in Wisconsin, added another 56 to comprise this tidy "par-72" total. Thanks to Chris and Dr. John Wagner of Seattle for forwarding this on to us.
by Chris Kretz
Chris Kretz is at it again with another hilarious edition of his "Useful Golf Book," a necessary component of every golfer's arsenal. Chris delivers 72 more tips, including such winners as: "Why You Take Perfect Practice Swings Before You Chunk Your Shot," "Why Trees Are 90% Air But You Always Hit the 10% That's Not," and the ever-popular, "How To Hit From One Bunker to Another." Enjoy this second batch of golfer guffaws from our correspondent in north-central Wisconsin. (For Kretz's first edition, visit Cybergolf's Book Reviews section.)
Chris Kretz is at it again with another hilarious edition of his "Useful Golf Book," a necessary component of every golfer's arsenal. Chris delivers 72 more tips, including such winners as: "Why You Take Perfect Practice Swings Before You Chunk Your Shot," "Why Trees Are 90% Air But You Always Hit the 10% That's Not," and the ever-popular, "How To Hit From One Bunker to Another." Enjoy this second batch of golfer guffaws from our correspondent in north-central Wisconsin. (For Kretz's first edition, visit Cybergolf's Book Reviews section.)
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This book started out intriguingly as I wondered how a person could play all the top-100 courses in the U.S. as rated by Golf Digest and make the trip worth reading about. Although I was hoping the author would succeed, I found out he didn't.
This book started out intriguingly as I wondered how a person could play all the top-100 courses in the U.S. as rated by Golf Digest and make the trip worth reading about. Although I was hoping the author would succeed, I found out he didn't.
Reviewed by Jay Flemma
Sal Johnson, editor-in-chief and publisher of Golf Observer, has finished his e-book previewing the entire 2008 PGA Tour season and has it available for download at Golf Observer.com for a mere $12.95. Considering you'd pay $8 to $15 for the tournament program of any particular event during the year, Sal's 52-week guide is not only a bargain but an indispensable tool for handicapping the field at any event. From the majors to the "Fall Series," from Kapalua and the Mercedes Benz Championship to the "Silly Season," Sal covers every pro tournament of the year.
Sal Johnson, editor-in-chief and publisher of Golf Observer, has finished his e-book previewing the entire 2008 PGA Tour season and has it available for download at Golf Observer.com for a mere $12.95. Considering you'd pay $8 to $15 for the tournament program of any particular event during the year, Sal's 52-week guide is not only a bargain but an indispensable tool for handicapping the field at any event. From the majors to the "Fall Series," from Kapalua and the Mercedes Benz Championship to the "Silly Season," Sal covers every pro tournament of the year.
Reviewed by Jeff Shelley
I probably should excuse myself from reviewing this book, seeing that its author, David Wood, is a buddy and regular contributor to Cybergolf. But the publisher, St. Martin's Press, sent me an "advanced uncorrected proofs" copy and, by God, I'm going to give it a go.
I probably should excuse myself from reviewing this book, seeing that its author, David Wood, is a buddy and regular contributor to Cybergolf. But the publisher, St. Martin's Press, sent me an "advanced uncorrected proofs" copy and, by God, I'm going to give it a go.
Reviewed by Jeff Shelley
Once you get past the rather pedestrian cover photo, this book blossoms into a wonderful compendium of almost everything important to New England golf. And the way it's arranged is charmingly schizophrenic.
Once you get past the rather pedestrian cover photo, this book blossoms into a wonderful compendium of almost everything important to New England golf. And the way it's arranged is charmingly schizophrenic.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
To me, Mark Frost is the best golf writer going, maybe one the top five ever. "The Match" is the third of his books I've read, following "The Greatest Game Ever Played" and "The Grand Slam." Frankly, I found this the least enjoyable of the three, which is not to say I didn't like it. Perhaps it's because this book dealt mainly with four people, rather than one as in the former titles, and it lacked the depth of those. At the same time, comparing this with the others is like saying which Godiva chocolate is preferable.
To me, Mark Frost is the best golf writer going, maybe one the top five ever. "The Match" is the third of his books I've read, following "The Greatest Game Ever Played" and "The Grand Slam." Frankly, I found this the least enjoyable of the three, which is not to say I didn't like it. Perhaps it's because this book dealt mainly with four people, rather than one as in the former titles, and it lacked the depth of those. At the same time, comparing this with the others is like saying which Godiva chocolate is preferable.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a golf course architect and what your daily life might involve? This book answers some of those questions in a way that, for the most part, proved interesting. The setting for this story is St. Andrews, the "Home of Golf." And who wouldn't want to be the one who designs the first 18-hole course to be built on these hallowed grounds in the last 100 years?
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a golf course architect and what your daily life might involve? This book answers some of those questions in a way that, for the most part, proved interesting. The setting for this story is St. Andrews, the "Home of Golf." And who wouldn't want to be the one who designs the first 18-hole course to be built on these hallowed grounds in the last 100 years?
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Sometimes wine drinkers will order a label that did not impress them the first time but are willing to give it another try. In a similar vein, I read Corrigan's book after failing to enjoy his previous effort, "Bad Lie." Unfortunately, the second go-round also failed to impress.
Sometimes wine drinkers will order a label that did not impress them the first time but are willing to give it another try. In a similar vein, I read Corrigan's book after failing to enjoy his previous effort, "Bad Lie." Unfortunately, the second go-round also failed to impress.
Reviewed by Jay Flemma
Although I only have time to name a few, I love Jeff Shelley for a million reasons. First, he's honest, hard-working and loves golf to the marrow of his bones. Second, he's the best kind of editor; he hardly touches anything I write. Finally, and just as importantly, when he writes a piece, it's accurate, informative and interesting. Over his long career, Jeff, now the editorial director for Cybergolf and www.golfconstructionnews.com, has discovered some of the most fascinating pieces of golf history.
Although I only have time to name a few, I love Jeff Shelley for a million reasons. First, he's honest, hard-working and loves golf to the marrow of his bones. Second, he's the best kind of editor; he hardly touches anything I write. Finally, and just as importantly, when he writes a piece, it's accurate, informative and interesting. Over his long career, Jeff, now the editorial director for Cybergolf and www.golfconstructionnews.com, has discovered some of the most fascinating pieces of golf history.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
You may be familiar with those rare days when you're having a really great round and you're in "the zone"? All is going so well that you wish the day will never end? Well, that's how I felt reading this book, one that I wish never ended.
You may be familiar with those rare days when you're having a really great round and you're in "the zone"? All is going so well that you wish the day will never end? Well, that's how I felt reading this book, one that I wish never ended.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
My wife and I like to buy three to four books on an area before we visit them so we can prepare for the possibilities. You can throw this one in as an option for golf, places to stay and where to eat. I have read better guidebooks, such as ones like Jeff Shelley's "Golf Courses of the Pacific Northwest, which give me a lot more information on the courses in a region.
My wife and I like to buy three to four books on an area before we visit them so we can prepare for the possibilities. You can throw this one in as an option for golf, places to stay and where to eat. I have read better guidebooks, such as ones like Jeff Shelley's "Golf Courses of the Pacific Northwest, which give me a lot more information on the courses in a region.
Reviewed by Scott Perrault
"You're Still Away" by Robert Sullivan is a collection of short stories for golfers who seek, however briefly, to go inside the ropes and look beyond the mundane. You know: the "Tiger shot such and such" reports that populate our sports pages.
"You're Still Away" by Robert Sullivan is a collection of short stories for golfers who seek, however briefly, to go inside the ropes and look beyond the mundane. You know: the "Tiger shot such and such" reports that populate our sports pages.
Holes on courses designed, routed or master-planned by Bechtol Golf Design principal Roy Bechtol make up 13 of the 96 top holes in Texas in the coffee-table book, "Spectacular Golf of Texas," published by Panache Partners, LLC, of Dallas.
Reviewed by Jay Flemma
As I packed up my gear to leave Oakmont after the 2007 U.S. Open, Rand Jerris of the USGA called me over. To my delight, he presented me with a copy of his book, "Golf's Golden Age," a survey of the great players of Bobby Jones' era. I'm still touched by his thinking of me. Beside it being a good example of the adage I live by - if good people like your work, you must be doing something right - the book has proven to be an invaluable resource for information on players, courses and tournaments from many generations ago.
As I packed up my gear to leave Oakmont after the 2007 U.S. Open, Rand Jerris of the USGA called me over. To my delight, he presented me with a copy of his book, "Golf's Golden Age," a survey of the great players of Bobby Jones' era. I'm still touched by his thinking of me. Beside it being a good example of the adage I live by - if good people like your work, you must be doing something right - the book has proven to be an invaluable resource for information on players, courses and tournaments from many generations ago.
Stanley Thompson is one of golf's most acclaimed course architects. Almost a half-century after his death, Thompson's genius is still recognized by the notable position of the courses he crafted in the list of Canada's top-100 courses. He still has more of designs on the list than any other architect.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I know these are no longer called the ladies tees, but this book is aimed at beginning lady players and is written in a very readable and enjoyable manner. It has a lot of excellent information for the novice player that will help her enjoy the game while providing a good introduction to etiquette.
I know these are no longer called the ladies tees, but this book is aimed at beginning lady players and is written in a very readable and enjoyable manner. It has a lot of excellent information for the novice player that will help her enjoy the game while providing a good introduction to etiquette.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
In the initial chapter, entitled "Golf Before Ike," author Catherine M. Lewis tries to cram a lot of golf history into the first 26 pages of her book. As a result, the section is hard to read and makes for a rocky start. But once I got to Chapter 2, I really started to enjoy it. As an amateur golf historian, I could have done without the first chapter.
In the initial chapter, entitled "Golf Before Ike," author Catherine M. Lewis tries to cram a lot of golf history into the first 26 pages of her book. As a result, the section is hard to read and makes for a rocky start. But once I got to Chapter 2, I really started to enjoy it. As an amateur golf historian, I could have done without the first chapter.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I found this to be an interesting book that is well-presented and uses pictures to full advantage. It definitely contains a lot of useful golf-swing instruction, with the end of each chapter providing a summary of the highlights (called "Bullet Points").
I found this to be an interesting book that is well-presented and uses pictures to full advantage. It definitely contains a lot of useful golf-swing instruction, with the end of each chapter providing a summary of the highlights (called "Bullet Points").
Reviewed by Jeff Shelley
This is one of the most enjoyable golf books I've read in a long time. Author Bob Cupp, a well-known golf architect responsible for 140 courses, has crafted a fine historical novel that succeeds in characterizing the birth of golf in Scotland.
This is one of the most enjoyable golf books I've read in a long time. Author Bob Cupp, a well-known golf architect responsible for 140 courses, has crafted a fine historical novel that succeeds in characterizing the birth of golf in Scotland.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
The back cover of this book promises it's a funny and fast-paced story which hits a hole-in-one for virtually anyone with an interest in politics, sports, gambling, music, mild levels of absurdity and, oddly, unusual pet tricks. After reading about 25 pages, I felt I was on the verge of a triple bogey.
The back cover of this book promises it's a funny and fast-paced story which hits a hole-in-one for virtually anyone with an interest in politics, sports, gambling, music, mild levels of absurdity and, oddly, unusual pet tricks. After reading about 25 pages, I felt I was on the verge of a triple bogey.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This is a great biography and exceedingly well written. The characters are so alive in the story about Old Tom Morris and his son, Tommy Morris, that you think you could go over to Scotland and still find these two important figures in golf.
This is a great biography and exceedingly well written. The characters are so alive in the story about Old Tom Morris and his son, Tommy Morris, that you think you could go over to Scotland and still find these two important figures in golf.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
The promise of this book, if you follow its rules, is enable a high handicapper lower his handicap to a low single-digit. After the author makes this bold statement in the introduction, he devotes the next 40 pages to his personal history.
The promise of this book, if you follow its rules, is enable a high handicapper lower his handicap to a low single-digit. After the author makes this bold statement in the introduction, he devotes the next 40 pages to his personal history.
James W. Finegan's "Where Golf is Great: The Finest Courses of Scotland and Ireland" has been named the recipient of the 2006 United States Golf Association's Herbert Warren Wind Book Award.
by Bob Spiwak
If this is to be a pocket guide, you'll need deep pockets in your Sansabelts, or else a special pocket in the golf bag. This is a sensational 4 x 7 guide to golf courses in the Auld Sod, hardbound and heavy with 240 high-quality pages. Each page has drop-dead photos of the place in question, and some of those venues occupy several pages.
If this is to be a pocket guide, you'll need deep pockets in your Sansabelts, or else a special pocket in the golf bag. This is a sensational 4 x 7 guide to golf courses in the Auld Sod, hardbound and heavy with 240 high-quality pages. Each page has drop-dead photos of the place in question, and some of those venues occupy several pages.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
I have no idea from whence came "The Golden Rules of Golf." I plan to donate it to the library. It is a book by Dr. Bob Spears, a dentist somewhere. It's about the size of USGA's "The Rules of Golf" and sells for $8.95. It seems to be a self-published tome, calling itself "A Guide to Golf Etiquette."
I have no idea from whence came "The Golden Rules of Golf." I plan to donate it to the library. It is a book by Dr. Bob Spears, a dentist somewhere. It's about the size of USGA's "The Rules of Golf" and sells for $8.95. It seems to be a self-published tome, calling itself "A Guide to Golf Etiquette."
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
According to Pritchard, we now have a new cause of all our golfing woes: the formation of microfibers in our bodies. Indeed, we may all soon suffer from microfiberitis. The author purports he possesses the only way to help golfers. Simply put, our problems are due to the build-up of microfibers around our muscles which makes us stiffen up as we age.
According to Pritchard, we now have a new cause of all our golfing woes: the formation of microfibers in our bodies. Indeed, we may all soon suffer from microfiberitis. The author purports he possesses the only way to help golfers. Simply put, our problems are due to the build-up of microfibers around our muscles which makes us stiffen up as we age.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Now here’s a book that makes sense of that famous malady nobody likes to discuss, especially me. This is well-presented document with easy-to-read print and great pictures. Haney, Tiger Woods’ instructor, does an excellent job of conveying the reasons behind the dreaded yips, and offers solid tips and techniques to correct the problem.
Now here’s a book that makes sense of that famous malady nobody likes to discuss, especially me. This is well-presented document with easy-to-read print and great pictures. Haney, Tiger Woods’ instructor, does an excellent job of conveying the reasons behind the dreaded yips, and offers solid tips and techniques to correct the problem.
St. Martin’s Press has agreed to purchase the worldwide rights to David Wood’s new book, “Around the World in Eighty Rounds.” The tentative publishing date is April 2008.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
Ivan Morris is the first non-American to win the coveted Golf Nut of the Year award by the Golf Nuts Society of America. He's authored two previous books and is senior columnist with Golf Digest Ireland. Greg Norman designed the Doonbeg course, and the story begins on the Auld sod of Doonbeg.
Ivan Morris is the first non-American to win the coveted Golf Nut of the Year award by the Golf Nuts Society of America. He's authored two previous books and is senior columnist with Golf Digest Ireland. Greg Norman designed the Doonbeg course, and the story begins on the Auld sod of Doonbeg.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This is the first novel for Coyne, and a dandy one at that. Finally, a golf book that offers only one swing tip, and it's woven into the story.
This is the first novel for Coyne, and a dandy one at that. Finally, a golf book that offers only one swing tip, and it's woven into the story.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
These two books showed up last week from the author; I thought he may be trying to bribe me into good reviews. But loving golf history as I do, I first sneaked a peak at the PGA book. After the first few pages, it was clear I was going to really like this one.
These two books showed up last week from the author; I thought he may be trying to bribe me into good reviews. But loving golf history as I do, I first sneaked a peak at the PGA book. After the first few pages, it was clear I was going to really like this one.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This is an interesting book. Steiner not only got my interest in the first 20 pages, but I wanted to find out where he was going with the story.
This is an interesting book. Steiner not only got my interest in the first 20 pages, but I wanted to find out where he was going with the story.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
When I received this book, I thought, “Oh, what fun, another book on Pebble. What new can they write?” Well, I was totally taken by it. There are a lot of new things to say about one of most naturally gifted golf destinations in the world.
When I received this book, I thought, “Oh, what fun, another book on Pebble. What new can they write?” Well, I was totally taken by it. There are a lot of new things to say about one of most naturally gifted golf destinations in the world.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
With this book it’s difficult to understand what the author had in mind. From the title I expected to learn about Ben Hogan and the secret of his legendary swing. At least I thought I’d learn of Hogan's life and how this “secret” played a major role in his life. Certainly I’d expect to be told how the secret was revealed.
With this book it’s difficult to understand what the author had in mind. From the title I expected to learn about Ben Hogan and the secret of his legendary swing. At least I thought I’d learn of Hogan's life and how this “secret” played a major role in his life. Certainly I’d expect to be told how the secret was revealed.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Despite its serious subject matter, this is a fun book to read. It’s presented in a very easy-to-read manner and has lots of great ideas. Dr. Foster, aka Dr. Divot [a frequent contributor to Cybergolf – see our Golf & Fitness section – http://www.cybergolf.com/golffitness], does a nice job of explaining the basics of injuries. (All except for how to treat my partner after I slam my putter into his backside when he misses a two-foot putt for a dollar.)
Despite its serious subject matter, this is a fun book to read. It’s presented in a very easy-to-read manner and has lots of great ideas. Dr. Foster, aka Dr. Divot [a frequent contributor to Cybergolf – see our Golf & Fitness section – http://www.cybergolf.com/golffitness], does a nice job of explaining the basics of injuries. (All except for how to treat my partner after I slam my putter into his backside when he misses a two-foot putt for a dollar.)
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This book has 30 different chapters in it. For me, it should take 30 months to read each one of them separately. I don’t mind a little Schecter (maybe once a month), but not a whole book of him within a short period of time.
This book has 30 different chapters in it. For me, it should take 30 months to read each one of them separately. I don’t mind a little Schecter (maybe once a month), but not a whole book of him within a short period of time.
Reviewed by Pam Cobb
If your top-10 list of favorite things to do include golf and an entertaining book, you are in for a treat as John R. Corrigan’s “Bad Lie” is a must-read.
If your top-10 list of favorite things to do include golf and an entertaining book, you are in for a treat as John R. Corrigan’s “Bad Lie” is a must-read.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
At first I was not real excited about reading this book as it seemed to be just a whole lot of information about rounds of golf, scores, club used, etc., by one of golf’s greatest players. I find such accounts boring. I much rather prefer knowing more about the main character and what goes on after a round of golf.
At first I was not real excited about reading this book as it seemed to be just a whole lot of information about rounds of golf, scores, club used, etc., by one of golf’s greatest players. I find such accounts boring. I much rather prefer knowing more about the main character and what goes on after a round of golf.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Being a lover of trivia and sometimes useless facts, I really enjoyed this book. Did you know (if you do you are a true lover of golf minutia) that Willie "Trapdoor” Johnson, a caddie at St. Andrews, had a special shoe with a hollow boot? This enabled him to declare balls “lost” after he’d scooped them up in his shoe (which held six balls). He’d later sell them, or maybe he traded them for a glass of Scotch.
Being a lover of trivia and sometimes useless facts, I really enjoyed this book. Did you know (if you do you are a true lover of golf minutia) that Willie "Trapdoor” Johnson, a caddie at St. Andrews, had a special shoe with a hollow boot? This enabled him to declare balls “lost” after he’d scooped them up in his shoe (which held six balls). He’d later sell them, or maybe he traded them for a glass of Scotch.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
At the start of this book is a long section about caddies. For awhile, I thought I was in for more mildly interesting golfing stories, but ones with little new value to a reader of many golf books and magazines.
At the start of this book is a long section about caddies. For awhile, I thought I was in for more mildly interesting golfing stories, but ones with little new value to a reader of many golf books and magazines.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
A few days ago I received three new books from Cybergolf’s editor to read and review. I started out by reading a few pages of each one to see if any of them really piqued my interest. The third book I tried was “Dream Golf, The Making of Bandon Dunes” by Stephen Goodwin. I have been to Bandon several times, played all three courses, and love the place.
A few days ago I received three new books from Cybergolf’s editor to read and review. I started out by reading a few pages of each one to see if any of them really piqued my interest. The third book I tried was “Dream Golf, The Making of Bandon Dunes” by Stephen Goodwin. I have been to Bandon several times, played all three courses, and love the place.
by Dr. John Wagner
I have been reading three books at a time and found that each had its moments. I waited until a week to review them to let them simmer for awhile. Waiting so long changed my outlook. Unfortunately, it lowered two of them in my recommendations. So here we go.
I have been reading three books at a time and found that each had its moments. I waited until a week to review them to let them simmer for awhile. Waiting so long changed my outlook. Unfortunately, it lowered two of them in my recommendations. So here we go.
Just how far will a golfer go to get a decent tee time? It turns out that in David Wood’s case, it’ll be to the ends of the earth.
The PGA of America, which marks its 90th anniversary this month, is presenting the PGA Home Library. The collection of golf books celebrates the game’s rich history and unique position within the literature of sport.
by Dr. John Wagner
What’s not to like about a book that titles its first chapter, “Instruction is a Bore”? Or as Jim Murray put it, "If they taught sex the way they teach golf, the human race would have died out long ago."
What’s not to like about a book that titles its first chapter, “Instruction is a Bore”? Or as Jim Murray put it, "If they taught sex the way they teach golf, the human race would have died out long ago."
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This is a Golf Digest book, and if you are on this website you have heard of David Leadbetter. Ya’ know, one thing I have disliked about most golf mags (Golf for Women is an exception) is their tips on how to solve any swing problem. I include Digest in this category. Problem is, six months down the calendar there will be a tip to cure a similar problem and probably contradict the one before, or at best make for confusion. Thus, I subscribe to no mags other than GFW.
This is a Golf Digest book, and if you are on this website you have heard of David Leadbetter. Ya’ know, one thing I have disliked about most golf mags (Golf for Women is an exception) is their tips on how to solve any swing problem. I include Digest in this category. Problem is, six months down the calendar there will be a tip to cure a similar problem and probably contradict the one before, or at best make for confusion. Thus, I subscribe to no mags other than GFW.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This book is 253 pages of laughs and, for me, a real page-turner. There is more than a hint of Dan Jenkins, but Reilly’s preposterously funny novel is far more palatable. Without a tinge of mean spiritedness and deliberate attacks on gender, race or physical attributes that characterize Jenkins, Reilly has created a bunch of weird characters who blend into an equally weird plot.
This book is 253 pages of laughs and, for me, a real page-turner. There is more than a hint of Dan Jenkins, but Reilly’s preposterously funny novel is far more palatable. Without a tinge of mean spiritedness and deliberate attacks on gender, race or physical attributes that characterize Jenkins, Reilly has created a bunch of weird characters who blend into an equally weird plot.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This is a book with an interesting premise, and unlike many novels where “Suspension of Disbelief” is a gradual process, this one begins with a preposterous and funny scenario.
This is a book with an interesting premise, and unlike many novels where “Suspension of Disbelief” is a gradual process, this one begins with a preposterous and funny scenario.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
What do Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort and San Francisco Golf Club have in common? Both are golf courses designed by the great A.W. Tillinghast, more commonly known as "Tilly."
What do Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort and San Francisco Golf Club have in common? Both are golf courses designed by the great A.W. Tillinghast, more commonly known as "Tilly."
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
“Mulligan’s Laws” is the funniest golf book I have read in over half a century. Perhaps Henry Heard’s “The Official Exceptions to the Rules of Golf” is funnier; I’ll find out when I read it. Beard is a founder of “National Lampoon,” and credits himself as editor of this book, claiming it was written by Thomas Mulligan, Fourth Earl of Murphy, the genius who invented the “Do-Over.”
“Mulligan’s Laws” is the funniest golf book I have read in over half a century. Perhaps Henry Heard’s “The Official Exceptions to the Rules of Golf” is funnier; I’ll find out when I read it. Beard is a founder of “National Lampoon,” and credits himself as editor of this book, claiming it was written by Thomas Mulligan, Fourth Earl of Murphy, the genius who invented the “Do-Over.”
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
Surprisingly, this book did not live down to my expectations. There was none of the endorsement hoopla on the cover, it was not a New York Times’ bestseller. The only name on the cover was that of Chi Chi Rodriguez, who was quoted as saying “Excellent.”
Surprisingly, this book did not live down to my expectations. There was none of the endorsement hoopla on the cover, it was not a New York Times’ bestseller. The only name on the cover was that of Chi Chi Rodriguez, who was quoted as saying “Excellent.”
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This is the third golf novel I have read that was written by a lawyer, involves a fantasy, and essentially deals with Bob Jones. Where the book becomes an enigma wrapped in a riddle surrounded by a mystery (thank you, Mr. Churchill), Ben Hogan is the catalyst for what transpires.
This is the third golf novel I have read that was written by a lawyer, involves a fantasy, and essentially deals with Bob Jones. Where the book becomes an enigma wrapped in a riddle surrounded by a mystery (thank you, Mr. Churchill), Ben Hogan is the catalyst for what transpires.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
This is a sequel to Veron’s earlier, “The Greatest Player Who Never Lived.” So far, this is my favorite golf novel. It re-introduces Charley Hunter, now a lawyer with the Atlanta firm of Butler and Yates, Bobby Jones’ old law firm, where Hunter was interning when he “discovered” the Greatest Player . . .
This is a sequel to Veron’s earlier, “The Greatest Player Who Never Lived.” So far, this is my favorite golf novel. It re-introduces Charley Hunter, now a lawyer with the Atlanta firm of Butler and Yates, Bobby Jones’ old law firm, where Hunter was interning when he “discovered” the Greatest Player . . .
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I would have titled this, “Eric: What have you done to writing good books?”
I would have titled this, “Eric: What have you done to writing good books?”
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This book was one of my favorite Christmas presents . When I unwrapped it, I saw a picture of General Eisenhower on the cover with a golf club during World War II. I was immediately taken in.
This book was one of my favorite Christmas presents . When I unwrapped it, I saw a picture of General Eisenhower on the cover with a golf club during World War II. I was immediately taken in.
Reviewed by Bob Spiwak
“The Greatest Golfer Who Never Lived” is the second best golf novel I have read. The best was written by the same author, J. Michael Veron, and will be covered in a future review. Veron is a trial lawyer who has also been on several USGA committees.
“The Greatest Golfer Who Never Lived” is the second best golf novel I have read. The best was written by the same author, J. Michael Veron, and will be covered in a future review. Veron is a trial lawyer who has also been on several USGA committees.
As a boy, Sam Snead – who once held the record for the biggest bonefish ever caught, who shot bears in Alaska, and who could hit a golf ball harder and farther than anybody – learned tailoring skills. He was able to alter the waist and length of his trousers, and turn the frayed collar of a coat.
Reviewed by Jeff Shelley
Arv Olson, a long-time sportswriter for the Vancouver (B.C.) Sun, has obviously accrued a few stories over the years. Thankfully, many of them are found in “Golflore,” Olson’s second self-published golf book (the first was “Backspin, 100 Years of Golf in British Columbia”).
Arv Olson, a long-time sportswriter for the Vancouver (B.C.) Sun, has obviously accrued a few stories over the years. Thankfully, many of them are found in “Golflore,” Olson’s second self-published golf book (the first was “Backspin, 100 Years of Golf in British Columbia”).
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
One might think of saying after first picking up this book, “Oh boy, here goes the Texans again telling us how great they are.” Yet I decided to read it anyway and keep an open mind. Glad I did.
One might think of saying after first picking up this book, “Oh boy, here goes the Texans again telling us how great they are.” Yet I decided to read it anyway and keep an open mind. Glad I did.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I have decided at my age to set up guidelines for book reviewing. If the author does not grab me with a plot or character involvement in 25 to 35 pages, then I am not going to read the book.
I have decided at my age to set up guidelines for book reviewing. If the author does not grab me with a plot or character involvement in 25 to 35 pages, then I am not going to read the book.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Now for a good book. This is a nice compendium of golf sayings that have been gathered up for over 125 years. This is a fun-to-read book. Read a page or do several.
Now for a good book. This is a nice compendium of golf sayings that have been gathered up for over 125 years. This is a fun-to-read book. Read a page or do several.
Reviewed by Doug Porter
A Golf Story, by Charles Price, is an interesting story which attempts to weave together three stories: the development of the Augusta National Golf Club, the advent of the Masters Tournament, and the amazing career of the legendary Bobby Jones.
A Golf Story, by Charles Price, is an interesting story which attempts to weave together three stories: the development of the Augusta National Golf Club, the advent of the Masters Tournament, and the amazing career of the legendary Bobby Jones.
“Out of the Rough” is a superb collection of Bernard Darwin's columns from the early 1930s. The pieces appeared in “The Times” and “Country Life,” the magazines where Darwin made his fame. The columns include some of Darwin's all-time classics, including “Old Pawky,” where he talks about Willie Park's wooden putter; “Hail and Farewell,” in which Darwin discusses Bobby Jones' retirement, and “The Best Ever,” where Darwin describes the best golfer in history.
Reviewed by Jeff Shelley
The subtitle of this outstanding book – “Great Holes, Tough Shots, and Bad Lies” – captures the odd situations golfers – and golf balls – frequently find themselves in. The depictions herein are priceless. From author John Updike taking a proper penalty drop from an unplayable lie, to a circa 1900 golf ball that became the permanent home for ladybugs, the images are graphic and telling.
The subtitle of this outstanding book – “Great Holes, Tough Shots, and Bad Lies” – captures the odd situations golfers – and golf balls – frequently find themselves in. The depictions herein are priceless. From author John Updike taking a proper penalty drop from an unplayable lie, to a circa 1900 golf ball that became the permanent home for ladybugs, the images are graphic and telling.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
For those of you who are Dan Jenkins fans, you will probably enjoy this new book. I assume this is in the same style as the others. For me, reading this book was like sitting through an IRS audit. I had to be there (I promised to read the whole book), but I sure was glad when it was done.
For those of you who are Dan Jenkins fans, you will probably enjoy this new book. I assume this is in the same style as the others. For me, reading this book was like sitting through an IRS audit. I had to be there (I promised to read the whole book), but I sure was glad when it was done.
Reviewed by Tom Phillips
Here’s another review of Jenkins’ latest effort, this by a reader who has a bit more fondness for the crusty Texas golf-writing legend than Dr. Wagner.
Here’s another review of Jenkins’ latest effort, this by a reader who has a bit more fondness for the crusty Texas golf-writing legend than Dr. Wagner.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
I put this book in the top-10 of all the books I have ever read for its interest and the clarity of the main characters. (Unfortunately, at my age I cannot remember my other nine favorite books.)
I put this book in the top-10 of all the books I have ever read for its interest and the clarity of the main characters. (Unfortunately, at my age I cannot remember my other nine favorite books.)
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
What a fun book to read and what great little insights into the game and some of the people involved. The author did a great job in his "little stories" of some of the unusual things of golf – from the cow pasture open in Montana to golf in the Arctic Circle. This book is a keeper (as if I didn’t have enough golf books).
What a fun book to read and what great little insights into the game and some of the people involved. The author did a great job in his "little stories" of some of the unusual things of golf – from the cow pasture open in Montana to golf in the Arctic Circle. This book is a keeper (as if I didn’t have enough golf books).
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Now here is a story that really tested my ability to find much to like in a book. The four main characters in “The Foursome” reminded me of why I would quit golf if I had to play with people like them.
Now here is a story that really tested my ability to find much to like in a book. The four main characters in “The Foursome” reminded me of why I would quit golf if I had to play with people like them.
Reviewed by Susan Oberlink
I made a deal with the devil. I promised to write a book review (a few paragraphs) for Jeff Shelley, editorial director of Cybergolf, and in return he said he “might” write a nice little article about a golf group I play in that’s been around since 1928.
I made a deal with the devil. I promised to write a book review (a few paragraphs) for Jeff Shelley, editorial director of Cybergolf, and in return he said he “might” write a nice little article about a golf group I play in that’s been around since 1928.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
This book is a joy to peruse. The photography and quotes are marvelous and enjoyable. It reminds me that there are varied and beautiful golf courses all over the world.
This book is a joy to peruse. The photography and quotes are marvelous and enjoyable. It reminds me that there are varied and beautiful golf courses all over the world.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Now here is a must read for all golfers, especially those living in the Pacific Northwest. I had fun reading this and learning of the history of golf, especially in the Northwest part of the country. The editor does a great job in presenting interesting and unique articles that are informative and fun to read. Shelley and Michael Riste also wrote the history of the Pacific Northwest Golf Association, which is considered by the USGA as one of the finest golf history books ever done.
Now here is a must read for all golfers, especially those living in the Pacific Northwest. I had fun reading this and learning of the history of golf, especially in the Northwest part of the country. The editor does a great job in presenting interesting and unique articles that are informative and fun to read. Shelley and Michael Riste also wrote the history of the Pacific Northwest Golf Association, which is considered by the USGA as one of the finest golf history books ever done.
Reviewed by Dr. John Wagner
Devotees of Bobby Jones will love this book. It deals with the premise that he built a course just for his friends and played there whenever he sought solitude. To reveal where the course is located would spoil part of the plot: how the course was built, and why and how Charley Hunter chased down the history.
Devotees of Bobby Jones will love this book. It deals with the premise that he built a course just for his friends and played there whenever he sought solitude. To reveal where the course is located would spoil part of the plot: how the course was built, and why and how Charley Hunter chased down the history.
by Jeff Shelley
Jeff Wallach writes in the Introduction of his new book, “Best Places to Golf – Northwest”:
“You’re holding in your hands a different kind of golf book. It’s not a compendium of such lifeless statistics as yardages and slope ratings for every course in the Northwest . . . It doesn’t cover every last good course in this vast, rugged territory . . .”
So you can’t call it a guidebook, Jeff. With just under 100 courses, it’s not inclusive enough.
Jeff Wallach writes in the Introduction of his new book, “Best Places to Golf – Northwest”:
“You’re holding in your hands a different kind of golf book. It’s not a compendium of such lifeless statistics as yardages and slope ratings for every course in the Northwest . . . It doesn’t cover every last good course in this vast, rugged territory . . .”
So you can’t call it a guidebook, Jeff. With just under 100 courses, it’s not inclusive enough.
Though it's taken awhile – about the time needed to read a couple of good books, we’re finally launching our new Golf Book Review section (http://www.cybergolf.com/bookreview/).
by Jeff Shelley
Just as the blades of the greens mowers are sharpened for another golf season, so too are printing presses freshly inked for a spate of new golf books. This year’s titles run the gamut: from historical perspectives to the latest provocative thoughts for improving the golf swing. Let’s take a look at some samples of this year’s crop of golf books, with “scores” by yours truly.
Just as the blades of the greens mowers are sharpened for another golf season, so too are printing presses freshly inked for a spate of new golf books. This year’s titles run the gamut: from historical perspectives to the latest provocative thoughts for improving the golf swing. Let’s take a look at some samples of this year’s crop of golf books, with “scores” by yours truly.
David Wood, a regular contributor to Cybergolf, has released his new book. "Around the World in Eighty Rounds" is now on sale in bookstores and on Amazon.