The Art of Golf

Peter Alliss introduces the new edition

of this classic title!

The Oleander Press is very pleased to have republished Sir Walter Simpson's rare The Art of Golf in a long-awaited new edition, introduced by Peter Alliss.

"It really is an interesting read, will bring a smile or two to the reader's face and might provide the answer to a current problem... Maybe somewhere within the pages is a little gem to think about for this is well worthwhile picking up" South Wales Golfer (Full review)

"The Art of Golf is a rare and classic treasure of sporting literature and a must for every golfer's bookshelf." Buzzin' Golf (Full review)

The classic of golfing literature written a century ago by Sir Walter Grindlay Simpson (1843 - 1898) is available from The Oleander Press, Cambridge publisher. The text, great even in the present day for tips and humour, will enrich the bookcase of every fan. www.hcp34.it (Review)

Sir Walter wasn't a star golfer himself but managed to capture the heart and mindset of the lone hero on the links like no-one before or since. His Art of Golf is less venerable in its instructional qualities than through its atmospheric and literary ones. However, it contains many tips and incisive tactics and strategies on how to get the best from your game - physically and mentally. It is a pure joy to read and is frequently hilarious with a dry, sardonic humour that encapsulates the flights of fancy of a golfer as much as those of his ball. Contained within are the first known examples of "instantaneous photography" used in golf tutelage with, amongst others, shots of Tom and Jim Morris and Ben Sayers - all digitally remastered.

Aside from magazine contributions Simpson's only other published writing on the sport was his essay Out of Form: A Chapter for Adepts written for the Badminton Library's Golf volume by Horace G. Hutchinson et al. (1890). Probably his finest literary effort (and his last before his death 1898), this essay has been included in this Anniversary Edition as a special addendum.

Simpson discusses golf clubs and accessories (The Dynamite should be avoided at all costs we think!), and gives advice on how to swing a golf club as well as other classic equipment reviews - including, of course, the various types of golf balls and even caddies! Simpson's main value today is the validity of his golf tips - mental and manual - for every player.

Following the success of our Anniversary Edition of The Night Climbers of Cambridge by Whipplesnaith, the exact same standards of production, quality of materials, and attention to detail have been brought to this title ensuring that it will make a much-appreciated  golf gift for any player and an absolute necessity for all golf libraries, as well as a great companion for golf vacations. When considering golf accessories, this should be at the top of the list. A fascinating and informative book it, as well as helping all levels of player improve their outlook and game, provides an enlightening record of the history of this crazily-addictive form of torture.