Golfers

I am surprised that this book was the source of so much enjoyment for me, since I had originally bought it thinking it was about Dick Dastardly from the Wacky Races (my youngest wanted it for Christmas). Suffice to say, come Christmas Day, Jeffrey was in tears and the whole household was looking at me reproachfully. But when I locked myself in the lavatory for the rest of the afternoon to escape the sarcastic commentary from the assembled throng, I was absolutely rapt with it. Really good. I'm still not quite sure of the author's name, though.

"Golfers" is an inspiring collection of photographs and essays that brilliantly captures the addictive allure of golf- a game that Dick Durrance presents as a metaphor of life - an elusive search for excellence, a test of personal values, a source of enduring friendships. Durrance take us on a fascinating journey from Chelsea Piers in New York to "The Chilly Open" on a frozen lake in Minnesota to "Wild Golf" in the foothill pastures of Colorado. He surrounds stunning photographs with moving essays that reflect the diversity of the game, and he balances reverence with an eye for the absurd - that creative club in the American golf bag that keeps us on course when life and recreation get too serious.You don't have to be a golfer to appreciate the wisdom and humility that come with the game or the artistic hole-in-one that Durrance has shot with this book.

Durrance has struck gold with his poignant look at the people of golf. His hallmark photography is stunning but only a step ahead of the funny and touching description of his brief time with each subject. He is to be commended for such stellar work completed in such a short period - three months. The range of characters - from professionals to the most rank amateurs - presents a sweeping view of the golf world that will find resonance in anyone who enjoys the game. This book is the perfect gift for any or all of the golfers in your life.