If you're a golfer looking to improve your game or just love reading about the sport, then this personal list of golf books is for you. These books cover a wide range of topics from technique to history and are sure to be a valuable addition to any golfer's library. So without further ado, here are my top 10 golf books.
"Ben Hogan's Five Lessons: The Modern Fundamentals of Golf"
by Ben Hogan
Considered by many as the bible of golf instruction, this book has stood the test of time and remains a must-read for any golfer. In it, legendary golfer Ben Hogan breaks down the fundamentals of the game in an easy-to-understand manner. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this book is sure to help improve your game. On a personal note, the book was given to me as a young assistant pro by Gavin Christie after my first day on the practice range with him at Douglas Park Golf Club near Glasgow in Scotland. Gavin and the book have been a big influence on both my golf game and teaching.
"Practical Golf"
by John Jacobs
World-renowned teacher John Jacobs who became a mentor to me while I was working at Sandy Lodge Golf Club just outside of London, England presents a simple, sound way to an improved game, no matter the skill level. Distilling his knowledge of golf into clear, practical instruction, John shows how to develop a consistent swing, the importance of understanding the geometry of ball flight, improve mental attitude, cure a slice in five minutes, get greater distance, and much more. For decades, this book has helped golfers lower handicaps and better enjoy the game, making it one of the best ever.
"Harvey Penick's Little Red Book: Lessons and Teachings From a Lifetime in Golf"
by Harvey Penick
Written by one of the most beloved golf instructors, this book is filled with practical advice and insights from Harvey Penick's 70-year career as a golf teacher. It covers all aspects of the game from putting to mental toughness and is a great read for any golfer looking to improve their skills.
"The Natural Golf Swing"
by George Knudson and Lorne Rubenstein
According to champion Canadian golfer George Knudson, your swing is governed by laws of nature, and is subject to logical, physical fundamentals that are all too often ignored. By learning the simple principles outlined in this book, you will generate more powerful, accurate swings, reduce your score, and gain control over your game. Take advantage of George's more experience on the PGA Tour as he guides you step-by-step through the mechanics of the natural swing, from the important first step of maintaining proper balance through the backswing, down-swing, and finishing form. He also shares his experience as a golfer on the tour, offering valuable insights into the roles that temperament and concentration play in winning.
"Golf is Not a Game of Perfect"
by Dr. Bob Rotella
In this book, sports psychologist Dr. Bob Rotella shares his insights on the mental game of golf and how to improve it. With anecdotes from top players like Tom Kite and Davis Love III, this book offers practical advice on how to stay focused and handle pressure on the course.
"The Inner Game of Golf"
by Timothy Gallwey
Teaches golfers to dramatically improve their golf score by applying principles of psychology.
Timothy Gallwey, knew virtually nothing about the mechanics of the game when he wrote this. He understood that even the best technique collapses when the mind cracks under the game's pressure. Gallwey's ultimate insight into the game was that a golfer's mind is a golfer's worst enemy; too much thinking only gets in the way. The book tackles such fundamentals as trust, concentration, visualisation, feel and relaxation, and is full of what the author calls "awareness exercises."
"Zen Golf: Mastering the Mental Game"
by Dr. Joseph Parent
Another book that delves into the mental aspect of golf, this one takes a more spiritual approach. Dr. Joseph Parent combines Zen principles with practical golf tips to help readers improve their game by mastering their mind.
"The Big Miss: My Years Coaching Tiger Woods"
by Hank Haney
This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the journey of coaching one of the greatest golfers of all time, Tiger Woods. With personal anecdotes and insights into Woods' training methods, the book has been praised for its honest portrayal of the world of professional golf.
"Tommy's Honour: The Extraordinary Story of Golf's Founding Father and Son"
by Kevin Cook
This is the inspiring and heart-wrenching story of the father-son team who together formed a record-breaking golfing dynasty. Old Tom Morris grew up a stone's throw away from golf's ancestral home at St. Andrews. After winning the Open Championship three times he became head of the Royal & Ancient, the governing body of golf. His son, Young Tom, was a golfing genius who at 17 became the youngest player to this day to win the Open Championship. Young Tom won the Open four times in a row an unprecedented achievement and together father and son stood as both founding figures in the world of golf and national celebrities. The sudden and unexpected deaths of Young Tom’s wife and unborn child, however, eventually lead to his tragic death at age 24, leaving Old Tom to mourn for another two decades.
"A Course Called Scotland: Searching the Home of Golf for the Secret to Its Game"
by Tom Coyne
If you're looking for something different from your typical instructional golf book, then this one is for you. Tom Coyne takes readers on an entertaining journey across Scotland as he plays every links course in the country. This book offers a unique perspective on the game and is a must-read for any golf enthusiast.