Tiger Woods and the Sport of Golf
Now that Tiger Woods has most golfing records, interest in the sport is at an all time high. Boys and girls who yearn to hit the links might enjoy the following books about the sport of golf. For more up to the minute news on Tiger, visit his website www.tigerwoods.com.
Reviews
Babe Didriksen: The Greatest All-Sport Athlete of All Time
Susan E. Cayleff
As the title suggests, Mildred Ella Didriksen, "Babe," was an athletic dynamo. A gold and silver medallist in track and field during the 1932 Olympic Games, the East Texas daughter of Norwegian immigrants excelled at every sport she participated in. In baseball she set the world women's record by throwing a baseball 272 feet in 1932. She also pitched against two major league teams in exhibition games. In basketball she was the star of the Employee's Casualty Golden Cyclones team in 1930-1931, overwhelming all of her opponents. In golf Didriksen was a trailblazer, co-founding the Ladies Professional Golf Association in 1950. This marvelous book tells the story of one of America's great athletes, from her hardscrabble childhood in Texas through her many athletic triumphs and marriage. The author uses crisp prose, making this book an easy, yet fascinating read. She has clearly done her homework, as the book has been thoroughly and impressively researched. The author is to be credited with bringing Didriksen's story to life in such noteworthy fashion. There is also information here concerning questions about Didriksen's sexual orientation, including discussion of her long-standing relationship with Betty Dodd. This book deserves all the accolades and plaudits it will undoubtedly receive. It should be a must buy for schools and libraries. 2000 (orig. 1995), Conari Press, $8.95, Ages 12 up. Reviewer Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 1-57324-194-6
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: All-Around Athlete
Jane Sutcliffe
Illustrations by Jeni Reeves
Her mother called her "Baby," not her given name of Mildred. Because she could hit a baseball so well, the neighborhood children called her "Babe" after the "King of Swat," and that was the way she was known her entire life. When Babe was a teenager, she told her family that one day she would participate in the Olympics. On her way to that goal, she played on a women's basketball team and won medals at track and field events. With her skills, determination, hard work and practice, she set three world records and won two gold medals and a silver at the 1932 Olympics -- earning the title, "World's Greatest Woman Athlete." Well-chosen incidents in simple sentences and large type present the story of this amazing athlete's childhood and her rise to national prominence. An afterword tells how she then went on to a career in professional golf. The soft-toned illustrations fulfill their purpose in providing supporting clues for the text in this beginning reader. Part of the "On My Own" series. 2000, Carolrhoda Books, $19.93 and $5.95, Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 1-57505-421-3
ISBN: 1-57505-447-7
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: Driven to Win
Nancy Wakeman
If Nike commercials had been around sixty years ago, the famed "Bo Knows" ads might have had a different slant. Babe Didrikson Zaharias had Bo Jackson beat. Babe knew baseball. Babe would have known football if her high school had let girls on the team. Babe knew golf, track and field, basketball, swimming, diving, tennis, and volleyball-and she did all this at a time when it was considered "unfeminine" for a woman to be too athletic or aggressive. She had extraordinary natural talent in practically every sport she tried, as well as enormous confidence in herself. This confidence often went to extremes-Babe was known to enter a locker room and declare to her opponents, "Okay, Babe's here! Now who's gonna finish second?" Still, she was extremely dedicated to her family, sending money to her parents whenever she could. Her fierce determination helped her overcome the challenges facing a female athlete in a time of limited opportunities. Although she made her mark in many sports, she had the biggest impact on the world of golf. High society rejected her as lower class and brash. The crowds loved her, her jokes and her trick shots. She increased the popularity of the sport and eventually helped found the Ladies' Professional Golf Association. Babe's amazing story, as well as the author's talent for telling it, makes this a fun, compelling read. This book is part of the "Lerner Biographies" series. 2000, Lerner Publications, $25.26, Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Emily Schuster
ISBN: 0-8225-4917-4
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: The Making of a Champion
Russell Freedman
Russell Freedman rarely writes a biography without receiving accolades. His latest is the story of the fourth of seven children born to poor Swedish immigrants, and it seems Babe's life was set up for struggle. During her life she fought poverty, gender stereotyping, the world's confusion at a female athlete whose passion for, and skill at sports crossed boundaries, until she met her final contender-cancer. Freedman does an excellent job of surrounding Babe in historical and personal context so her individualistic and sometimes apparently self-proud persona makes total sense. The book is filled with wonderful photographs, pithy quotations, and the depth of research and understanding for which Freeman is deservedly esteemed. 2000, Clarion, $18.00, Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-395-63367-2
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: The Making of a Champion
Russell Freedman
It's not Babe Ruth, but Babe Didrikson Zaharias-the greatest woman athlete of all time. Few men, if any, have ever bested her feats in sports from track and field to golf. Babe broke barriers for women. Contrary to Aver Brundage's belief that women had no place in sports, Babe proved that women could sweat, succeed, set new records and still enjoy dancing at night. Freedman presents Babe as a complete and complex person. Terrific photos show her in action. She was a one-woman team! If Babe is the tops in sports, Freedman holds that same honor in the field of photobiography. His books are "must reads" for all ages. 1999, Clarion, $18.00, Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 0-3956-3367-2
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: The Making of a Champion
Russell Freedman
Born into a large Norwegian immigrant family in Texas, Mildred "Babe" Didrikson went on to become a fabulous athlete, selected as the best female athlete of the first half of this century. She was determined and disciplined. If Babe decided to participate in a sport, she persevered until she was the best. She won Olympic gold in track and field, played organized basketball, and helped form the Ladies' Professional Golf Association. Once she was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer, Babe became an ardent spokesperson for fundraising efforts. Her life constantly tested boundaries: the limits of athletic performance, constraints on female athletes, and the social taboo against discussing cancer in public. She was brash and confident, characteristics that were unexpected in women of her time. Russell Freedman obviously developed great respect and admiration for the subject of this biography and invites us to join him in enjoying this fascinating woman. Copious photographs support the text; an annotated bibliography and index are included. 1999, Clarion, $18.00, Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-395-63367-2
Beginning Golf
Julie Jensen
Photographs by Andy King
Beginning Golf is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning to play golf. There are six easy chapters, each highlighting a particular aspect of the game. Golf history, equipment, skills, rules, the course and etiquette are just a few of the topics discussed. Each page features easy to understand text and outstanding photographs. This book even includes a story of four young adults who play a round of golf. The story incorporates all of the lessons taught in the preceding chapters. A glossary of "golf talk" terms, an index and addresses for more information are also very helpful. Adapted from Peter Krause's Fundamental Golf. 1995, Lerner Publications, Ages 9 up, $21.27. Reviewer: Karen White
ISBN: 0-8225-3504-1
Fundamental Golf
Peter Krause
Photographer: Andy King
Another in the "Fundamental Sports" series, Fundamental Golf presents the game through easy to understand text and an abundance of excellent photographs. A brief history and several player highlights precede detailed descriptions of the playing course, rules, scoring procedures and etiquette of the game. Correct form and a variety of skill shots are thoroughly reviewed and shown. Readers learn the proper stance, choice of club and the best strategies to follow as they "play" one hole. As in each of the series volumes, a glossary of terms and an appendix of organizations and further reading suggestions are included. 1995, Lerner Publications, Ages 12 up, $21.27. Reviewer: Pat Simon
ISBN: 0-8225-3454-1
Hannelore Sotzek
Illustrated by Bonna Rouse
Beginners can learn a lot in this brief introduction to the game of golf. They will discover what equipment is necessary, how to determine a handicap, how to keep score, and they will even find warm up exercises to prevent sports injuries. The directions about how to hold a club, the proper way to swing and how to hit a driver are presented in a succinct manner. There are illustrations to accompany the text for the steps involved in hitting pitch, chip and bunker shots. Etiquette, rules and safety practices (such as getting off the golf course as quickly as possible if there is a threat of lightning) are clearly stated. The layout is inviting, with a mixture of color photographs of children on golf courses interspersed with the how-to drawings. The text is straightforward and easy to follow. An LPGA professional was the consultant for this book, which is part of the "Sports in Action" series created by Bobbie Kalman. 2001, Crabtree, $14.97 and $5.95, Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-7787-0168-9
ISBN: 0-7787-0180-8
The Kids Book of Golf
John Gordon
This informative chapter book written by golf expert, John Gordon, is sure to inspire any young golf enthusiast. The book begins with a brief history of the sport that had its beginnings in Scotland. Diagrams and beautiful color photos explain the patterns of golf courses, the clubs and other equipment essential to the game. The skills of the game, such as stance, aim, grip and swing are revealed through illustration, text and action photographs. The rules of the game and important tips from the pros will encourage young golfers. Brief bios of some big name players such as Chi Chi Rogriquez, Babe Zaharis, Arnold Palmer and of course, the superstar Tiger Woods, add a human dimension to the sport and book. Information in the back of the book includes great moments in golf, golf terms such as ace, birdie, eagle, fairway and also a complete index. The text, photos and illustrations are engagingly formatted and will appeal to young golf enthusiasts. This is a comprehensive book and would be useful in the primary and intermediate classrooms and in any family where golf is an important sport. 2001, Kids Can Press, $14.95 and $7.95, Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Sue Reichard
ISBN: 1-55337-017-1
ISBN: 1-55074-617-0
The Kids Book of Golf
John Gordon
Sports-minded dads often love to share their skills. The Kids Book of Golf has tips, diagrams, and photos to help with the sharing. The layout makes John Gordon's informative text especially accessible. Each double-page spread is devoted to a specific aspect of the game, including Warming Up, Playing by the Rules, and Heroes of the Past. 2001, Kids Can, $14.95 and $7.95, Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 1-55337-017-1
ISBN: 1-55074-617-0
Night Golf
William Miller
Illustrated by Cedric Lucas
As Tiger Woods grows increasingly popular among children, it is easy to assume that golf is a "color-free" sport. However, it has only been within the past 40 years that African Americans were permitted to play in professional golf tournaments. In Night Golf, Miller tells the story of a young boy who overcomes racial barriers so that he can realize his dream of golfing. This involves the rigorous work of caddying and facing with humiliation with dignity. The only way he manages to stick with his dream is to accept the kind guidance of an older caddy who shares the secret of "night golf." By practicing on the course in the darkness of night, James builds the skills and confidence he needs to show the other players his talent. Historical information before and after the story provide the necessary context for readers. 1999, Lee and Low Books, Ages 8 to 11, $15.95. Reviewer: Carol Lynch
ISBN: 1-880000-79-2
On the Course with ... Tiger Woods
Matt Christopher
The author, well known for his fictional sports books, succeeds with something different in this nonfiction work about golfer Tiger Woods, part of the "Sports Bio Bookshelf Series." This title explores Woods' life in admirable detail, beginning with the pro golfer's childhood when as a young prodigy, he appeared on the Mike Douglas Show and dazzled a national television audience with his putting ability. This is a very well done book, with revealing details, such as the racial taunts Woods endured as a child and the difficulties he faced breaking through the stereotype that golf was not a sport for African-Americans or other non-white minorities. There are also explanations about golf terminology and even helpful discussion about why golfers use certain clubs, putters, woods, etc., in certain situations. This is an excellent choice for students looking to learn more about the first African-American to win the Masters Tournament (1997). But readers who are not already interested in golf will likely choose not to pick up this book as a casual reading selection. 1998, Little Brown, Ages 10 to 14, $4.50. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-316-13445-7
Se Ri Pak: Driven to Win
Mark Stewart
In 1998, Se Ri Pak won the U.S. Women's Open, the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Championship, and was named LPGA Rookie of the Year. She shot the lowest score ever for an LPGA tournament, and her 10-under-par 61 at the Jamie Farr Classic went into the record books as the best round of golf in LPGA history. Declared "a national treasure," this phenomenal athlete from the Republic of South Korea was only twenty years old. In her quest to be the best, Se Ri endured loneliness, isolation, and a training program that was at times unorthodox and harsh. However, her greatest challenges may lie beyond the links as she struggles to become an independent woman while finding a way to "...honor her father, serve the game, and blend two very different cultures together...." This book is part of the "Sports' New Wave" series. 2000, Millbrook Press, Ages 10 up, $19.90. Reviewer: Ellen R. Braaf
ISBN: 0-7613-1519-5
ISBN: 0-7613-1334-6
The Story of Golf
Dave Anderson
Foreword by Jack Nicklaus
Golf evolved from a Roman game using sticks and feather-stuffed leather balls. The French, Dutch, and English put their own spin on the game, but we remember the Scots as the creators. Back in 1457, Parliament attempted to ban the popular sport because it was taking up military practice time. Fortunately for golfers around the world, the law was useless and the sport's popularity spread. When golf came to the United States in the late 1800's, problems arose from having no guidelines. Eventually the Unites States Golf Association was formed and the rules soon followed, standardizing the sport abroad. With the help of golfers such as Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, Bobby Jones, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Nancy Lopez, and a host of others, golf has won many fans and participants worldwide. This is the "sport for a lifetime." History, prominent golf figures, award-winning courses, hints and tips, as well as a very useful glossary are all encompassed in this book. Everyone from the veteran golfer to the beginning duffer will find this book a unique sporting treasure. Excellent detail and unique personal stories keep you reading from cover to cover. 1998, Beech Tree, Ages 10 up, $16.00 and $7.95. Reviewer: Scott S. Floyd
ISBN: 0-688-15796-3
ISBN: 0-688-15797-1
Superstars of Women's Golf
Barry Wilner
This is a well-researched, hardcover book that addresses the need for more information about women sports professionals. A title in the "Female Sports Stars" series, the book starts at the very beginning, with the establishment of the Ladies Professional Golf Association in 1950, and continues to trace its evolution up to today's top international players. Mini-biographies of five of the greatest women golfers are also given: Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Nancy Lopez, Betsy King, Pat Bradley, and Patty Sheehan. The author, Barry Wilner, has been a sportswriter for the Associated Press for over twenty years. Illustrated with black and white photos throughout. Includes suggestions for further reading. A great reference book to have on hand when the LPGA turns 50 in the year 2000! 1997, Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 8 to 12, $7.95. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-7910-4390-8
Tiger Woods
Andrew Gutelle
For those who may have missed the Master's Golf Tournament this year, they missed seeing the culmination of dedication, training and concentration which resulted in Tiger Woods winning his third Master's. This early reader will inform and inspire kids who may want to make a career in sports or just to believe in themselves and know that with hard work and a bit of natural talent there can be success. The photographs are a delight--baby Tiger playing with a little golf club, later at three actually swinging a club and by the age of five he was scoring in the 90s on an 18-hole golf course. There doesn't seem to be much standing in Tiger's way. He will continue to break records and also demonstrate that a "big star" can be nice, work closely with kids and serve as a role model. Young boys and girls will really hone in on this engaging biography. 2002, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 7 to 8, $19.50. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-448-42663-3
ISBN: 0-448-42664-1
Tiger Woods
Bill Gutman
Tiger Woods is the youngest golfer to win the Masters Tournament. At the age of eleven months he demonstrated his remarkable golfing abilities. Although he had this phenomenal skill there was much that he had to learn and overcome. The first day of kindergarten, some older boys grabbed him and tied him to a tree and proceeded to throw rocks at him and call him names. With love and guidance from his parents he learned to think positively about himself, control his anger, follow the rules and to become a winner. Tiger was never pushed by his parents. He just loved golf. In fact, during his school years, his parents had to impress upon him that there was no golf practice until he finished his homework. With all of his achievements, one of the positions he most enjoys is being a role model by working with the National Minority Golf Foundation. He has also started his own foundation for underprivileged children to instill in them, through golf, a sense of self-worth. Part of the"Millbrook Sports World" series. 1998, Millbrook Press, Ages 7 to 10, $6.95. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 0-7613-0329-4
Glen Macnow
The "Sports Great Books" series is dedicated to bringing the lives of famous sport figures to young readers. Individuals such as Jeff Gordon, Wayne Gretzky, Jerry Rice, and Grant Hill are a few that are featured in the books. Great snap shots, a simple table of contents, suggested Internet locations, and where to write your favorite sports hero are all included. This specific book focuses on Tiger Woods. Recalling his first major accomplishments, such as the U.S. Amateur championship in 1995 and the Masters championship in 1997, Tiger gives his view on what it means to be the best. His thoughts on staying focused and how mental toughness plays into the game are also included. This series of books with their high interest level certainly could help motivate the reluctant reader. 2001, Enslow, $17.95, Ages 7 up. Reviewer: Sharon Tolle
ISBN: 0-7660-1468-1
Tiger Woods
Lucia Raatma
Athletes and non-athletes alike will find inspiration in the story of Tiger Woods, the young man who has already, in his 20s, risen to legendary status in the sport of golf. Author Lucia Raatma includes influences that have shaped Woods' life, especially his remarkable parents. The book is graphically inviting, with many sidebars of interest, such as Woods' racial heritage, his religion and older golfing legends who have influenced him. The colorful sidebars include quotes from articles written about Woods, advice he received from mentors and Woods' own words. Golf terms are printed in bold type to allow readers to learn more about the game of golf. Raatma covers the facets of Woods career that take place off the putting green, including commercial endorsements and the Tiger Woods Foundation, which was established to encourage children and their families to become involved in the game of golf. The book, part of the series "Trailblazers of the Modern World," concludes with a list of Woods' record-breaking feats, a timeline of his life and a glossary. 2001, World Almanac Library, $26.60, Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Kimberly Norman
ISBN: 0-8368-5066-1
Tiger Woods
Elizabeth Sirimarco
Tiger Woods is a twenty-five-year-old phenomenon, the "Michael Jordan of golf." His name and face are known throughout the U.S. and the world. His success has made golf a popular sport for children, most notably those of African-American descent. This short biography reveals the salient details of Tiger's meteoric rise-his intelligence, work ethic and competitive spirit. Only one page is devoted to Eldrick's (his given name) mixed parentage and how he got his nickname as an infant. The rest of the book covers his career, its high and few lows, and includes relevant facts about his education. By age two, Tiger played and won his first golf tournament; at fifteen, Golf Digest ranked him the number one junior player nationally. He graduated from high school with an A average and earned an award for being the top high school student-athlete in the U.S. Readers don't have to be interested in golf to appreciate what Tiger has accomplished and to enjoy the suspenseful anecdotes about several of his games. Short sentences and straightforward prose, as well as many colorful photographs, make this an appealing book. It is part of the "Sports Heroes." series. 2001, Capstone Books/Capstone Press, $21.26, Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Ellen R. Butts
ISBN: 0-7368-0581-8
Tiger Woods
John Torres
Given how many kids became interested in golf because of Tiger Woods, this book should find a wide audience. Torres gives a simple, readable account of this remarkable young athlete's life, without leaving out the painful stuff. A wrist injury forced Woods out of the U.S. Open. He was constantly pestered to turn pro before he was ready. And recently, Woods was criticized for practicing his swing rather than paying tribute to deceased golfer Payne Stewart. By including these details, the author shows that Woods' life has been as complicated as anyone else's. Yet his successes show young readers, subtly, the value of hard work and commitment. Part of the "Real-Life Reader Biography" series. 2002, Mitchell Lane, $15.95, Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Donna Freedman
ISBN: 1-58415-067-X
Tiger Woods: Drive to Greatness
Mark Stewart
We all know that Tiger Woods' first coach was his father, but you may not know that his father intentionally tried to distract and rattle him as a boy-making loud noises as he swung and rolling balls in front of him. Earl Woods' singular purpose was to build the focus and concentration that has given Tiger his inner drive, even as he built a powerful drive on the golf course. Tiger's mother, meanwhile, taught him the Buddhist principles of harmony and balance that she learned as a child in Thailand. Kultida Woods' parents were of Thai, Chinese and European heritage. Tiger has fought discrimination, won accolades and become a role model as an African-American. Tiger's mother named him Eldrick-E for Earl, K for Kultida so he would always be surrounded by his parents; Earl preferred "Tiger" in memory of the bravest man he'd ever met-a colonel in the South Vietnamese army. After several big wins brought him the popularity of a rock star, his coach advised Tiger that he could retire and live privately off his winnings or "find a way to enjoy life in the public eye and have fun." Tiger decided to have fun. This biography is full of color photos and fascinating details. It is perfect for the young person who enjoys either the game of golf or the celebrity of Tiger Woods, but it is also perfect for the young reader who needs to learn that concentration and a will to succeed can overcome perceived obstacles. 2001, Millbrook Press, $24.90 and $7.95, Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0-7613-1966-2
ISBN: 0-7613-1477-6
Tiger Woods: Golf Superstar
David R. Collins
Illustrations by Larry Nolte
This lively, colorfully illustrated easy reader introduces children to golf star Tiger Woods. Taking a chronological approach to his life and career, the book begins with Woods' first exposure to the sport at age one, when he was shorter than standard size clubs. While the author details Woods' many significant golfing achievements, including winning the 1997 Masters Tournament, he also admirably touches upon the discrimination Woods has faced. With an African American father and a mother born in Thailand, Woods has weathered his share of sneers and insults When he enrolled in a mostly white kindergarten in 1981, Woods was tormented by several classmates who threw rocks at him and tied him to a tree while calling him names. By recounting such revealing facets of Woods' life, the author shows young children a largely unknown side of this mega athletic star, making this book a recommended choice for library and school shelves. This title has much more to offer than the typical children's sports bio. 1998, Pelican Publishing Co., Ages 3 to 7, $14.95. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 1-56554-321-1
Tiger Woods: King of the Course
Jeff Savage
Since winning the 1997 Masters Golf Tournament, Tiger Woods has become a fixture on the professional sports scene, a high profile also aided by his $60 million endorsement contracts. Woods's triumph went beyond athletics as he became the first African-American to win the Masters which is played at an Augusta, Georgia country club that formerly discriminated against minorities. This basic biography relates Woods' accomplishments and history in impressive detail. He got started in golf as a toddler, when he carried a golf club wherever he went. The young phenom appeared on the Mike Douglas television show, sporting a golf club taller than he was and batting golf balls into a net to the delight of the audience. Eventually, Woods advanced through the amateur ranks, winning 30 tournaments before he was 11 years old. He won several amateur and NCAA championships before turning professional in 1996 at the age of 21. Although many golf terms, such as stroke and wedge, are explained in the book, it would have been helpful to provide explanations for bogey, eagle, and par, household words to golf fans that may nevertheless be unfamiliar to young readers. 1997, Lerner Publications, Ages 9 to 13, $14.96 and $5.95. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-8225-3655-2
ISBN: 0-8225-9811-6
The Young Golfer
Richard Simmons
Young people interested in learning to play golf will greatly benefit from this trademark offering by Dorling Kindersley. DK's fine photography, clean design, and organized presentation lend clarity to the varying aspects of the sport such as basic skills, kinds of shots, and special skills. It thoroughly covers all a young player needs to embark on a lifetime of playing golf. Clothing and equipment are discussed, as is the design of golf courses, and golf etiquette. Young female and male players are used equally to demonstrate techniques like grip, swing and putting. It is lamentable that only two photographs of women professional golfers were used compared to ten pictures of men professionals. 1999, DK Publishing, Ages 7 to 13, $15.95. Reviewer: Martha Shaw
ISBN: 0-7894-4712-6
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