Golf Books
I am not typically a reader. I don’t dislike reading, but I find myself doing many other things at this point of my life than reading. My fiance, she is a reader. She loves it and I can see that she is very peaceful while she does. It is her way to relax. Not mine in most cases.
I have found that, as a golf nerd, golfing books are interesting to me. I have read all the John Feinstein stuff and loved them. I had a friend of mine write a book about the history of golf in Spokane, Washington and I loved that. I have read all the Harvey Pennick, Dr. Rotella, Peter Jacobson, and all the instruction books you can name.
For my money, there are two types of golf books out there. Instructional books and books that are about golf.
My favorite instructional books are Hogan’s stuff. I think there are few books as well written, and as helpful, as Hogans Five Fundamentals. This is considered the “bible” of the golf swing up until Tiger arrived on the scene. One thing that you have to remember is that Mr. Hogan fought a hook so some of his swing moves are built to combat that ball flight, but his techniques are sound and his information easy to digest.
Very few have specialized themselves in the golf world like Dave Pelz. I am sure that Mr. Pelz could teach the full swing, but he has chosen to spend his efforts on the short game. From 100 and in there is nobody that has done the extensive research that he has. Be prepared to have your game change when you read his Short Game Bible. It is exceptional.
If you are looking for a good sold read without the instruction of the game, check out John Feinstein’s stuff. From “Good Walk Spoiled” to “The Majors” Feinstein captures life on the PGA tour that most of us never knew existed. His writing style is fantastic and these are books that you can get immersed in.
I also like the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. They have a golf themed edition chock full of inspirational stores and funny anecdotes. Be prepared to realize that the 3 footer that you missed last round really does not matter in the whole scheme of things. Great perspectives and great stories make this a must.
The last book I can suggest is the most important. EVERY golfer MUST have this in his bag or at home. It is the worst read in the world, but is the foundation of the game we love. It is the rules of golf. I keep one in my golf bag and I can not begin to count the number of times I have used it. During tournament play, it is almost like we are reading it as we are going along. I guess that tells you some of the places I hit it ha ha.
If you are a reader or are not that fond of reading as a pass time. There are some great golf literature out there. Check some of it out and use it as a cool down next time you have a tough round.