Driven: Teen Phenoms, Mad Parents, Swing Science, and the Future of Golf

Although I was aware of the practice of teen golf training and the connection to David Ledbetter, I was shocked by many of the details. The author gave a new insight into this area of interest and the people involved. I found the book quite interesting

great stories and background information regarding many aspects of the business of modern golf instruction ... very interesting read ... all will learn something about their golf game with this book! learn how the multi-million dollar world of 'learning golf' has arrived in its present condition ... highly recommended

interesting, sometimes fascinating insights, but marred by non-existent editing---phrases were repeated verbatim and the quality of the photographs was beyond abysmal. Still, almost required reading for lovers of the game.

It was a good book. Quite informative for parents whose children are aspiring to be great golfers. The book not only delves into what life is like at David Leadbetter's junior golf academy, it also gives insight into various parental mindsets. The author provides a venue which allows the reader to be introspective about the relationship they have w/ their junior golfer. Parents are profiled that range from the micro-managing, hard driving father to the parent who barely understands the game. The author does a good job justifying and supporting his recipe for what it takes for a young person to become a great golfer. The author went into great detail about David Leadbetter, his teaching philosphy and history - much of which was necessary to give the reader context and background. A significant portion of the book seemed to be an informercial for David Leadbetter and his commercial endeavors.

For how closely golf is followed by the golf media and avid fans, not many details are known about the burgeoning golf academies. Thanks to access granted by David Leadbetter and several families, author Kevin Cook is able to shed light on the nearly invisible world of high-powered, test tube, uberphenom golf. The book offers more insight into the lives of Ty Tryon, Michelle Wie, Sean O'Hair, and the next wave of top juniors moving on to professional golf like the Lendl sisters or Peter Uihlein. You will also be treated to Cook's theory on the path all tournament golfers should take in order to eliminate the mistakes that could derail their promising careers. To do this, "Driven" not only looks at junior golf, but also the careers of Eldrick Woods, Nick Faldo, and Nick Price. Well researched, well organized, and well written, I think you'll enjoy "Driven".