Review of Play Golf Better Faster: The Little Golf Bag Book

[Shuntel Max]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Play Golf Better Faster: The Little Golf Bag Book" by Kalliope Barlis.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Play Golf Better Faster: The Little Golf Bag Book by Kalliope Barlis is an instruction manual and guide that aims to help the reader become the best golfer he or she can be. However, the practical advice is not limited to golfers. There is solid advice on practice and taking action in general, and the author writes that the advice can be applied to any area of life. 

When it comes to golfing advice, though, this book is not lacking. I appreciated that Barlis goes in-depth by including illustrations and detailed step-by-step instructions rather than just delivering the standard 'practice makes perfect' spiel. Barlis takes this aphorism and expands on it, combining general truths with research-backed methods to ensure lasting effects. Barlis includes a quote from a mentor: “All that exists in the universe exists within every cell of who you are." The idea of this quote is that you already have everything you need to achieve what you want to do, at least in the sense of capability. This idea is intertwined with the book's message, making one’s golf goals more achievable. 

I’m an amateur golfer at best, so I love that this guidebook mostly uses terms that are understandable to everyone. However,  I would say that at least a basic understanding of golf terminology and technique is necessary to grasp what the book is about. At some points, the steps and methods blended, confusing me and making it hard to visualise the book’s words. For anyone struggling like I did, there’s an appendix at the end of the book that contains illustrations of the book’s recommended postures, forms, and positions. I was incredibly relieved to find it. There wasn’t much to dislike about this book. 

There is a focus on the senses in this book. There are many helpful exercises meant to help you see, hear, and feel your perfect shot. Some exercises help you visualise minimising bad shots, as Barlis promotes an emphasis on what went right, not what went wrong. There is also a focus on being intentional with your goals for true improvement.

Overall, I would rate this book a 5 out of 5. It was helpful, encouraging, and detailed. I would recommend it to golfers of any level. I would also recommend it to people who play other sports. 

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Play Golf Better Faster: The Little Golf Bag Book
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