Arnold Palmer: Homespun Stories of The King

I have never been golfing in my life and very rarely watch it on television. But living in Pennsylvania as I do, I have always been an Arnold Palmer fan because of how classy he was and how wonderfully he treated his fans. This is probably the most feel good book you will read about any athlete this year. The book is 240 pages of Latrobe, Pa., resident Chris Rodell sharing one story after another of Palmer's graciousness and generosity.The author clearly loved Arnold Palmer, and that sincerity is evident throughout the book.Some of my favorite stories in the book: Palmer would typically spend $100,000 a year of his own money to send out signed photos of himself to fans who requested one but did not include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Palmer would often sign autographs for three hours a day -- until his hand cramped from the monotony of fulfilling autograph requests. Complete strangers would often knock on the front door of Palmer's Latrobe, Pa., home for a photo or an autograph, and Palmer never turned them down.I think most people who follow sports at all are familiar with how amazing Palmer was to his fans, but the book really drives the point home. The book also contains lots of details about Latrobe, Pa., how the town impacted Palmer and why he never forgot where he came from. One of the things that really stood out to me in the book was the anecdote of how often Palmer would send handwritten notes to people he didn't even know. Palmer would frequently read various local newspapers and be inspired to fire off a handwritten note to someone for a job well done or someone he thought could use a sincere letter to brighten their day,The book is definitely worthy of all the 5-star reviews. Even if you are not a golf fan, this book will put a smile on your face for what a great person Palmer was and how generous he was with his time and money throughout his life. Sports will never again see a gentleman quite like Palmer.

With every word that you read, this book will increase your faith in your fellow man. It's not a book about golf, though the game is used as seasoning for the meat and potatoes of what you are about to read; the story of a life well-lived, a life that is as much like your next door neighbor's as it is like the the lives of crowned royalty.Arnold Palmer understood that he was fortunate. Indeed, the great fortune (monetary) that he accumulated was in large part the result of good, honest hard work. But, he knew and acknowledged that luck played a part, and fate chose him to lead Arnie's Army, to represent "Every-man & Every-woman" not so blessed. And, he shared those blessings tenfold.If this were a work of fiction, it might be easy to dismiss as a Pollyanna story. There is no "gotcha" moment where the hero fails to deliver or the hero gives in to temptations. The hook is that it's real.The author has done a tremendous job of writing with technical precision but also in a way that feels as familiar as a talk across the fence with your neighbor, and that is exactly how Arnold Palmer greeted everyone; as a neighbor, as a friend.You will continually find yourself relating anecdotes pulled from these pages with family and friends, starting with "that reminds me of this story of Arnold Palmer. You won't believe it."You will want to read through this book in a single sitting. It's that hard to put down. But, my advice is to savor it over time.

What a wonderful read about one of the greatest sportsman in history. Chris Rodell consistently conveys stories how one of the most competitive and accomplished golfers was still a normal guy. Amazing how Arnold Palmer was such a personable and nice guy even after so many accomplishment and success. Well written and a must read for young competitive athletes in today's world where self hype and personal branding is more important than accomplishment and sportsmanship.

An excellent read! The stories in this work will not be found in golf magazines. I learned much more about the man, who knew the value of hard work, both physical and mental. Mr Palmer who used his wealth and fame to help others in need. He was a humble man, who made each day count and always had time for people. God Bless him!

You don't even have to be a golf fan to enjoy this collection of stories about the King of Golf. Stories from Latrobe locals to presidents of our great nation. An uplifting, inspiring, and often humorous read, crafted by master storyteller Chris Rodell. I LOVED reading this book and absorbing the tales and lessons from the sport of golf's king, but also, a wonderful human, Arnold Palmer.

I will preface my remarks since Mr. Palmer was a friend. The book was fascinating and fun to read. Like Mr. Byron Nelson., he was a gentlemen and loved to laugh. We had a mutual love of flying and golf, so he loved hearing and telling stories. If you were a fan or just an admirer of Mr. Palmer, you will love the book.

Just the facts. The author knew him as a local in Latrobe, PA.

A great, well written book with stories you won't find anywhere else. I feel like I knew the King through the insights and perspectives uniquely told by author Chris Rodell. A must have for any sports fan