The Greatest Game
Professor David Purdie / Birlinn
Illustrations by Hugh Dodd

Did you know that Shakespeare was a golfer! And that Rembrandt was no stranger to the fairway? Or that Mary, Queen of Scots was actually beheaded because of golf?

Those of you who enjoy the regular blasts from The Major in Golf International will will be interested to learn that his creator, Professor David Purdie, is the academic behind this enlightening and entertaining new book as he takes a swipe at our collected knowledge of the game in his unique style. Based on firm facts (where available), firm invention when not, the book examines the most curious and confusing intricacies of golf.

Purdie’s work as a journalist and speechwriter for Ryder Cup captains Sam Torrance and Colin Montgomerie (no mention here of any involvement with Sir Nick Faldo) has provided him many opportunities to witness golf’s highest and lowest moments. Drawing on his vast experience, Purdie explores the culture of the game across the world – including the USA, China and India – and sweeps aside all claims for the game’s origin outside Scotland.

Accompanied by Hugh Dodd’s colourful caricatures, The Greatest Game offers an alternative view of golf and tries to make some sense of the collective madness which pervades the links each day from dawn to sunset. Highly recommended.

Guide: £25 Hardback / Limited Edition: £150 - ISBN: 978-0-95144-707-9

May 2010