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The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses published by Tom Doak has developed a cult status among golfers, for good reason we believe. The book is prized for its honest assessment of various courses around the world. It is tough to get an honest assessment of most golf courses since the articles published by most golf magazines or newspapers are done on the 'comp' system. 'Comp' standing for complimentary or in plain English for free. This sometimes includes airfare, meals and lodging as well. Given such a big conflict of interest, you can see how it would be tough to write a critical review.

Tom Doak, who wrote these books when he was a budding golf course architect, had little reason to be anything but honest. He doesn't like all courses and gives an honest assessment if he doesn't like the course. We find in this day and age of constant spinning of facts it is refreshing to get the real deal. It also doesn't hurt that Doak has a good eye and his assessments are built on a strong knowledge base. If you're going to be bold, you had better be good. And Doak has proven that he is good. We offer as proof three outstanding courses his company has designed: Pacific Dunes, Barnbougle Dunes and Cape Kidnappers.

In any event, this book was published by Sleeping Bear Press in 1996. The book reviews hundreds of golf courses around the world and offers Doak's assessment of the courses. The book is a treat to read and we generally agree with Doak's assessment. He also has the 'Doak Gazeteer' at the end of each volume which are a group of over fifty eclectic lists such as the best lunch, best logo, least-played courses, clubs most likely to require a family history before letting you in, etc. The book is highly recommended and is quite scarce. People are always amazed that such a new book costs so much. Although it was issued at a price of $45 it regularly sells for hundreds of dollars. Why? Well, it's really used like a reference book so people that have them tend to keep them. And, you do the math. There are between 50 and 60 million golfers worldwide but only 12,000 books were printed. It comes down to supply and demand. We carry the book when we can, but it is difficult to keep in stock.

The book was also published in a limited edition of 1,000. This edition was published by Renaissance Golf Design in 1994. These copies are signed by Doak. This edition of the book contains no pictures and somewhat different editorial content. Actually, it's a more honest version of the later book. Also, not a cheap book.

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