5 comments about The Pro: Lessons About Golf and Life from My Father, Claude Harmon, Sr..

1. I have two sons so I was very interested in hearing how Claude Harmon raised his four boys. It seemed he was very harsh with them, encouraging competition between them and at times belittling them. I've worried sometimes about being too demanding with my sons. But after reading this book I began to feel that, in the long run, it is a good thing. Some of the Harmon boys went through intense periods of rebellion but they all seemed to honor family above all else.
   
   Now, about golf. A book like this made me realize all I have to learn in playing golf. I'm a 9 handicap but this showed me that there is a world of knowledge to learn about this sport. And yet, Claude Harmon would also continually return to the basics of grip, allignment and balance. I think I will play better golf and enjoy it more after reading this.
   
   One note: this is Butch Harmon's point of view and, as such, many might claim it leaves out a lot. That's to be expected. I'm sure that Butch is no saint, and he's made a bundle playing and teaching golf. But it's still a good book that you'll enjoy.



2. There is way too much information about Tiger Woods in this book and not enough about Claude Harmon. Who cares whether Tiger did his first long TV interview on Oprah? So what if people clapped for Tiger in a restaurant in Vegas? Most people who haven't been living in a cave for the last ten years are aware of how great Tiger is and what a record he has amassed. I understand that a teacher is proud of his student, but I can read that stuff in Tiger's book. And Butch goes on far too long about how important it is for people to learn from as many sources as possible. It really sounds like Butch is mad or insecure about Tiger leaving him.
   On the positive side, there are a few good stories about Claude Harmon and some of the greats from his era.



3. You don't need to be a golfer to enjoy this book. I'd been playing golf all of three weeks when this book was loaned to me. The title of the book is apt. The lessons indeed apply both to life and golf. A thoroughly enjoyable read!



4. Excellent copy arrived in a timely fashion. A pleasure to do business with.



5. The Pro; I though it was a very good read, It;s nice to know about others, and how they were able to get started.
   
   Playing lessons ;I did not carefor at all.

5 comments about The Boys of Everest: Chris Bonington and the Tragedy of Climbing's Greatest Generation.

1. Let me first say that I am an avid reader of climbing literature. As a non-climber, I found the author's description of every piton and carabiner on every climb to be immensely tedious. Likewise the endless sequence of who was in which camp every day and who led every pitch. Climbers who attempt these or similar routes might be enlightened, but I found it rather mind-numbing. I found Willis' suppositions about climbers' thoughts just before death to be banal and presumptuous. After slogging through 315 pages I could no longer feign even the slightest interest and quit reading.
   
   Clint Willis edited the excellent anthology "Epic: Stories of Survival from the World's Highest Peaks." He apparently gained no literary insights from any of the fifteen authors whose works he included. Readers wishing to get a feel for what it's like on the mountain should read "Epic" instead. It's a good way to sample the writing style of a variety of climbers, as well. Other excellent choices for climbers and non-climbers alike are "Minus 148 Degrees" by Art Davidson or "Touching the Void" by Joe Simpson, and anything by Greg Child.
   
   I gave the book one star for its explanation of the changing politics and policies of climbing in Great Britain after 1953. There were also some good insights into Bonnington's character. But if you want a thrilling read, look elsewhere.



2. I have recently read "No shortcuts to the top" and I loved that, but this is even better. It details the generation that really made the modern vision of mountain climbers - a bit aloof from the world and somewhat conceited about their business, but motivated by some need to go to the top, and by a harder route to prove something. This era of climbing and exploration is somewhat under-represented or is generalized all to Messner or his cohorts, while this book details so much of what was going on in the high mountains.
   Great book!



3. If you want to know about the folks that lived to climb and died while doing so, this is the book. Bonington is still alive, but the stories of he and his collegue's climbs are amazing.



4. Willis' current book (he's edited a number of collected excerpts) was the most intriguing mountaineering book I've read in a long time -- and I've read quite a few, although I myself am an "armchair" climber. Perhaps true mountaineers will find the book wanting for lengthy descriptions of raising funds for the climb; of the travails of arriving at base camp; of the flora, fauna and cultures encountered on the way in, but personally when I read about the extremes of high-altitude climbing, I'm always most attracted to how the alpinists themselves -- as humans -- cope with such extreme conditions. What do they think? Feel? What does this other worldly existence -- for it's nothing like everyday life -- give them that drives them to return, again and again, despite the torments, the cold, the hunger, the closeness to death that almost inevitably accompanies every serious ascent? Willis allows himself some artistic freedom in placing himself in the climbers' boots as they wake to bitter cold; as they jumar up old ropes; as they place weak protection knowing that any failure can lead to their death and possibly the death of their comrades. But this is why I, for one, read about alpinists: they compell themselves to extremes, and Willis -- far better than anyone -- places you alongside these climbers as they unravel, or ignore, the reasons they are high on these mountains, and always destined to return to them.



5. "From the mid 1950's to mid 1980's, Bonington's Boys changed the nature of climbing Mount Everest. The risks they took and the price they paid is unimaginable but told vividly in this stunning book."

4 comments about Karsten's Way: The Life-Changing Story of Karsten Solheim-Pioneer in Golf Club Design and the Founder of PING.

1. Tracy Sumner's Karsten's Way is the fascinating biography of Karsten Solheim who was a visionary pioneer in the design of golf clubs, the founder of PING, and for whom The Solheim Cup was named. Karsten's influence and ideas were to profoundly influence both golf and the golf equipment business. If you've ever held a golf club in your hands, or wondered how the business aspects of the game have evolved, this Karsten's Way will prove to be as inspiring as it is informative.



2. A good book to read when you feel like things aren't going your way....there's a reason why things happen in people's lives (i.e. GOD)...after i read the book i now know why i felt PING golf equipment is the best...never sacrifice what you believe in



3. Friendship and respect are two of the most precious assets in a man's life. Karsten Solheim enjoyed both in large measures throughout the golf world. We shared a very special relationship, owed to my now having played Ping clubs for 20 years. I sincerely commend this book, "Karsten's Way," for it is above all, the story of a far-sighted pioneer, and an essential record of how he revolutionized golf with his exceptional passions.



4. If you are looking for a sermon on religion you have come to right place , but if you are looking for a great insight to the mind and workings of the greatest inovator in clubmaking ever....look somewhere else. this book is about 10% golf and 90% religious praise for this beloved man. Don't get me wrong I respect his devout beliefs but that could have been summed up in about 3 pages not 150. I never fealt that I got any info on how he came up with his great club Ideas, the ping website has better information.

1 comments about Bat Boy: Coming of Age with the New York Yankees.

1. Once I started reading this book it was hard to put down. The author (Matthew McGough) takes you behind the scene of one of the most prestige franchise of any sports teams. You'll experience what it was like to be on the inside of Yankee Stadium. The star struck kid interacting with the "Stars in Pinstripes". It's a must read book for anyone who has ever dreamed of being a bat boy for a professional baseball team. Anyone who has ever wanted to know what takes place before, doing, and after a baseball game this is also a must read book. You'll also read about the "good guys" and the not so friendly guys who played for the Yankees. Find out it's not always glamorous being a "bat boy". Finally a "kudos" to his parents who made sure school work was always his priority over working Yankees games. Enjoy the adventure!
   
   Andre' Fontenot (former bat boy San Francisco Giants 1974)

5 comments about No Hurdle Too High: The Story of Show Jumper Margie Goldstein Engle.

1. If you have a love and passion for horses and are especially interested in the wonderful world of Show Jumping at an Olympic and Grand Prix level, this is the book for you. I loved reading about Margie's childhood and how she was so determined to work to the top and work is exactly what she did. I remember getting the opportunity to watch Margie compete many years ago and at that time I knew she was a rider I wanted to mimic and look up to, after reading this book, it is a solid confirmation that she is truly someone to pattern yourself after, both in and out of the saddle. What a great person.



2. Mom, who is rightfully proud of her daughter, is a retired schoolteacher, and boy does it show. To say the book was written on a third grade reading level, which another reviewer has claimed, is completely accurate. The corny, quoted dialogue that supposedly takes place between mother and daughter reads like an elementary school play: "How did the grand prix go?" "Very well, thank you. I got first, second and fourth." "That's wonderful. How do you feel about the Olympic outcome?" This would be a delightful read for a preteen that aspires to be a top rider, but it's merit ends there. If you want to follow Margie's career, but a subscription to the Chronicle of the Horse instead.



3. This would be interesting reading for a young rider. I expected explanations and descriptions about how Margie achieved her successes. Instead, it is more like her mother's walk down Memory Lane. It might be fine for a young fan of Margie's, but it is not for a mature, serious rider. I also do not understand why the Kelso family review was repeated and included twice in averaging the rating.



4. I have read "No Hurdle Too High" and thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought that the author by choosing to write it from a third person, objective point of view, as a parent, as opposed to Margie-Engle Goldstein's first person, subjective, point of view
   was the author's prerogative. And by using this approach, she made the book intriguing and heart-warming. Either approach, if used would have satisfied some people and left others unhappy.
   The book conveys a good sense of the difficulties (hurdles0 that Margie faced and conquered. The purpose of the book, I believe, was to learn not about the technicalities of Horse Jumping, but to tell Margie's story it more personal and less technical.
   I found it very inspiring and recommend it strongly.
   Herb



5. This is one of those unforgetable stories. In this world of terrorists and unrest, we found it a Delightful Diversion. We laughted and cried tears of joy at Margie's antics and accomplishments.We thought the book was well written, and easy to read. We highly recomend it.

2 comments about Double Dunk: The Story Earl "The Goat" Manigault.

1. good seller, quick shipment, book in good condition. also recommend the book. it's a great story.



2. My son love's basketball. He is 18. He had to have this. Great gift for any basketball lovers in your life.

5 comments about A Shining Season: The True Story of John Baker.

1. This book needs to be read by everyone especially by all those over 13. I read it frequently and every time I am more amazed by John's incredible greatness, sacrifice, courage and love of children. I am also very thankful that his family, friends, professional co-workers et.all were there to help him. Even Dr. Johnson contacted medical assistance all over the country to help him. It is more tragic that his form of cancer is now much more treatable. The last line says that Coach Baker turned tragedy into an enduring legacy. Amen! The Duke City Dashers and the children of Aspen were so so blessed by their "Coach Baker." My paperback from 1982 has been replaced by a hardcover. Aspen, by his children was named "John Baker Elementary" in tribute to this great man and their "teacher" Words really can't describe him. I am so thankful that Mr. Buchanan has told all of us the life of one of the greatest people that I have ever known and heard about. Truly, Coach has received in heaven all of the crowns, trophies, medals that the Lord provides to His good and faithful servants!!Five stars all around to everyone involved in John Baker's legacy and William J. Buchanan. Coach Baker's story needs to be told even 38 years later!!



2. I originally read this book about John Baker's life and impact on young people when I was in grade school. I still had it on my bookshelf when I was in college in 1988. I felt a lump on my testicle and immediately saw a doctor. The diagnosis was malignant testicular cancer, but thanks to God and the fact that I had re-read John Baker's story so many times, I caught it early and am completely cured. John's life continues to have an impact on many people long after his tragic death.



3. I was 8 years old when John Baker passed away but, I do remember when they changed the name of the school to honor this hero. This book is chicken soup for the human soul. This book belongs in everyone's personal library and it should be read at least once a year to remind us that every little thing counts.



4. I first read this book when it was passed on to me in high school by a friend. The story of John's life and battle with cancer is something that really makes you put your life in perspective and is truly inspirational. I don't know anyone that has made it through the book without some tears...just reading through the reviews here, I found myself with tears streaming down my cheeks. If each of us could do 1/2 the good in our lifetimes that John Baker did in his that ended much too soon, imagine how much better the world would be.



5. This true story of a runner and coach tugs at your heart strings. It is so sad , at times I could not see the page because of my tears. Mr. Buchanan does a remarkable job of painting the portrait of this young man's life in a realistic manner. Very well written - THIS WAS A GREAT READ!!!

2 comments about Golf's Golden Age: Bobby Jones and the Legendary Players of the 10, 20's and 30's.

1. I highly recommend Geoff Shackelford's book, The Golden Age of Golf Course Architecture. It's one of the great books of our generation.
   
   Inside you will find the best source of photographic detail, excellent writing and great resource in the study of our great American courses and their now famous designers.



2. This is an excellent book for lovers of golf both young and old. The book contains great photographs from the USGA museum archives. Most of all it gives a very interesting look at golfs history, its legenday players and how the game has evolved.
   If you have a set of clubs, love the game and its history - get this book.

5 comments about Ron Santo: For the Love of Ivy.

1. This is an awesome book written by a inspiring baseball legend. I highly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates Cub baseball history and/or admires the courage of Ron Santo.



2. The greatest third baseman ever to play the game and the fact that a trousersnake like Joe Morgan is helping to keep him out of the HOF is a crying shame. Ron Santo is what courage is all about and an inspiration to anyone on this big colored ball we call earth. I first became a fan of Ronnie's in 1998 because I would listen to all of the Cubs games on the radio with him and VPatrick Hughes. I had a job selling tickets at this and didn't have a tele to watch Chip and Stone on the TV. Anyway Santo is the best. The Cubs should have retired his number long ago. Long live Ron Santo and the Cubs...two winners!
   
   Origianlly posted 5/4/04
   
   CC



3. Ron Santo has better numbers than most of the third basemen in the Hall of Fame. Anything but a minor star, this quiet, self-effacing hero had the misfortune never to play for a champion (he's most closely identified with the 1969 Cubs, often called "the greatest team never to win a pennant). As a result, he's never gotten the recognition he deserves- including election to the Hall, despite outclassing several of the third basemen there.

   Santo accomplished his feats despite an ongoing battle with diabetes which eventually cost him both legs. He's most appreciated, to be sure, in Chicago, where the Cubs at long last retired his number this year. His story is an inspiration to all of us who labor under the burden of far lesser disadvantages and accomplish far less. This is the autobiography of a true hero. To read it is to be inspired.




4. I love Ron Santo...and although I have a phobia of ballplayer autobiographies, I figured out of respect for the man, and because I thought maybe, just maybe, this one would break the mold of politically correct, sacchrine-sweet memiors typically put out there from the jock-ocracy. I have more respect for him than ever, especially when he chronicles his struggles with diabetes, and the self-diagnosis he must go through every day to monitor his health. This is a must read for Cubs fans, and for people who need another story of a courageous battle against diabetes. Most other target audiences will probably choose to pass on this.



5. Excellent autobiography for baseball fans in general and Chicago Cubs fans in particular. Ron Santo was signed by the Cubs in 1958 at the age of 18. Prior to reporting to the Cubs, he learned he had diabetes.

   This book tells of playing with baseball greats such as Ernie Banks, Billy Williams, Ferguson Jenkins, and Leo Durocher. And the 1969 Chicago Cubs.

   The book is also inspirational in Santo's perseverance against diabetes and the potential devastating effects of the disease at that time. Santo tested himself and put himself to the limits to control his diabetes.

   The book is a very good read and should appeal to any baseball fan. Also, good read for younger players, high school and up, as Santo played the game to its fullest with class, and continues to approach other aspects of life the same.

5 comments about Flutie.

1. If you like Doug Flutie, you will enjoy this book. Typical "sports hero" book... not extremely well written, will drag on at times unless you are a fanatic. Interesting read if you want to learn more about Doug Fluite.



2. Doug Flutie was the best player in CFL
   history and a Pro Football legend who
   taught the overrated NFL a thing or
   two about the 'size' NON-issue. If
   this guy had ever had a REAL good Coach
   (how about if he'd gone to New England
   under Bill Belichick before Thomas Brady!)
   who would have trusted him, man, I beleive
   he could have won that elusive Super Bowl.
   The drop kick may end up being the Coda
   on a fine career. Instant Canadian Foot-
   ball Hall of Fame and Museum selection
   as soon as he's done (and maybe a broad-
   caster this year, eh?). What a career.
   He always rose above the stupidity of
   sorry Coaches like Wade Phillips!-R.A.S



3. Read this book! I loved it as much as you do! So read it



4. Doug Flutie recounts his career from his earlest days on the playing field thought his magical first season with the Buffalo Bills. Lots and lots of football facts and game-related jargon here! I would have liked to have learned more about Flutie's personal life; what sort of things really shaped and inspired such an exemplary athlete? Who is the man behind the face mask? I recommend this book for Flutie and football fans everywhere but don't expect any great revelations.



5. Excuse me, the 2nd review listed for Doug Flutie's autobiography is for another book entitled "Flutie, a novel". The juxtaposition of the reviewed content is hysterically funny however, so you might want to leave it.