Readers from Various Sources
(Amazon, Ozone Billiards, Seybert's Billiards, Facebook)
Play Your Best Pool
Amazon
Simply the Best, August 6, 2012
The best pool book ever written. It has something for everyone at every level. From fundamentals to advanced play it takes the student through in an easily understandable format with manageable steps. The author has an
excellent grasp of what types of information will be of the most help in improving your game whether you are a total hack or an experienced player. Highly recommended!
John Half
Biggity-BAMM!!!, October 13, 2011
If you are looking for a billiards book with lots of images and a straightforward approach - this book is for you. I have several that were made
by different authors and this is definitely the best.
bladesupv
GREAT 5 STARS BOOK, August 11, 2011
THE BOOK IS GREAT, I saw it somewhere else, reading a few hours, and IS A 5 (five) STARS BOOK, one of the best, if not the best about this subject. Congratulations to Phil Capelle for such a good work.
THE DOWNSIDE of this book is not being printed color and on a good quality paper as THE ILLUSTRATED PRINCIPLES OF POOL AND BILLIARDS by David G. Alciatore.
A trader "G"
Helped a lot!!!, May 6, 2011
I love this book, I wouldn't consider myself a great pool player but when I read this book it helped me picture certain things like where the cue ball is gonna go after cutting a shot and how to use my english to make shots. This book has many diagrams and show situations you go thru almost every time you play pool. I recommend this book for anyone from showing interest in pool and all the way up, Will Help Your Game! I swear on it folks.
A. Peterson
Awesome book for all levels of players, March 23, 2011
This book is THE book for any pool player no matter how good or bad he/she plays since it goes right from the basics to covering all aspects of a professional pool player (talent, skill, technique and mental aspects too). I was already a good pool shot but my game was stagnated at that level and after reading this book and applying it my game has gone up 2-3 levels and i'm looking
forward to continue reaping the benefits of this book and play at the highest level very soon and i'm confident this book has everything I need to prepare myself to get to that level. I just love reading this book again n again.. it never ceases to delight me each time with new insights and ideas to improve my game. The best thing about this book is the in-numerous illustrations to explain
each and every shot that is out there to play and also the mental side of it.
Akshay Parakh
Great Book!, May 17, 2010
Great book. My game is improving every week. Hoping to be one of the top 15 shooters in my league this season!!
Kevin Montgomery "kmwestcoast"
Arguably the best book on pool, February 3, 201
I bought this book, the "99 critical shots..." and a couple more locally. Frankly, just this one would have been more than enough. There is
NOTHING in the "99 shots" or any of the other books I have that isn't covered by Capelle in this book and that would be of any value. Capelle goes beyond "what" you should do and also explains "why".
Dmitri Tarassenko
Good start, October 4, 2009
Its an good start for novice and too for advanced players , excellent way for teaching the basics and upmost form to play like a pro
Amilcar Edgardo Aleman Melo "mikeg"
play your best pool review, August 30, 2009
The book is very good and it is for any level of pool shooter. I felt that if I learned one thing from the book, I would be happy. I've learned many things so it's worth it. I'm still reading it but so far so good. I would say that this book if for the shooter that wants to improve their game - the less experienced you are, the more you are going to get out of this book.
Packer fan
Only book on pool I will need, February 25, 2009
I bought this book after reading many of the positive reviews. I was fairly new to serious pool at the time, and was looking for a comprehensive guide to really give me a way to organize my practice. This offers everything i needed and more. It will be a while before i can digest everything contained within. Everything i can say about this book has already been stated by many reviewers much more experienced than I. I simply enjoy watching my friends' jaws drop when i run the table and having some laughs while i do it with much less
effort and indecision than it used to require. Pool becomes more fun when you can challenge more advanced players and have interesting matches. Definitely worth every penny.
CtrlAltDlt
A very good manual, March 20, 2008
A very good book. Very comprehensive. Explanations, drawings are perfect. Perfect for training at home
Sean Wilkins
Very good!, May 16, 2007
I've read a number of books on the game of pool. I was very impressed with the authors grasp of the game as well as his very apparent love
of the game. He has obviously studied the art form intensely for many years. I felt that his realistic, open minded approach and access to many of the current greats of the game make his advice quite invaluable to the committed student of the game. Buy this book if you're serious about improving.
Beau Dupre Painting wealth of resource, May 6, 2007
Phil Capelle's book "Play Your Best Pool" is a wealth of resources. It is quite thorough and would be good for someone seriously interested in pool. It's got a 60+ page section on 8-ball, an equally thorough section on 9 ball, and more on the fundamentals, shotmaking, position play,how to improve, practice techniques, and equipment. My games have significantly improved by reading and using Capelle's book. Highly recommended. So much information that a novice might be overwhelmed, and it might not be so useful if
you don't have a home table to go through it all (I wish I did)...but still, an indispensable book.
S. Yelland "--S.Y."
Awesome in depth book, March 4,2007
I got this book when i first became serious about playing pool, while reading it my game just kept going up and up and up, now i break and run several times a night. before it would be make a ball or 2 and that was it for my runs. it is a great book.
Greg Burley
Play Your Best Pool, January 21, 2007
I have read eight books on pool. This is by far the best of the eight. The book is crammed with pool information. A no nonsense approach to playing the game. If you want to learn more about playing pool, this is the read.
James W. Schierlman
Good fundamentals, January 12, 2007
I was pretty good at pool many years ago and finally have the ability to play again. I don't play at all well now. This book has helped me
discover where my game is off. I needed to break down the basics and fix some problems areas. The info. in this book has helped me direct my children's pool game as well. It's easy reading and always there when I find the time to focus on the great game of pool
JB Chip
The best pool book out there!!, November 5, 2006
I have read several pool books, and trust me. THIS is the best!!! You can benefit from it no matter if you are a beginner, intermediate or an
expert player. This book is awesome. It covers the basics, as well as fine points of position play, practice methods, a guide to buy your own gear, principles of position play, and a whole section dedicated to nine ball and other to eight ball!!. Is the most complete book I have read!!
Edwin Zapata
Best there is, July 10, 2006
This is probably the best pool book for practical play out there. I have read "99 critical shots" and Byrne's books, but this one is better by
far. My game took a quantum leap after I had been working with this one for a while. Highly recommended!
Rolf Enger
Take your game to the next level., February 21, 2006
That is one of the things he tells you this book will do. I am about 1/2 the way through the book and it has already taken my game to the next level. It has also shown me ways to help the new players. The ghost ball is great for a new player. I am an APA player, 6 in 8-ball and will go to 7 because of this book. That is saying alot for a book.
J. Mike Davis
Read the best book about pool, January 19, 2006
I have buyed several books about pool. This one is best of them all. You probably know how to hold a cuestick, and you wish to know more about 8 and 9 ball games (as well as others). This one is for you. On more than 400 pages for reasonable price, you will learn advanced techniques and improve your game a lot. The way as Philip Capelle explain what's going on the table is very good. If you have to buy one book of the pool, then buy only this one. Great book.
banem
Can't get more complete than this..., January 5, 2004
What can you really say, other than wow. This is probably the best introduction to pool out there, other than Byrne's Standard, a good book in its own right. But here, Capelle is able to go into more detail on topics such as English, position play, and especially 8-ball and 9-ball strategy. And the list goes on...practice drills, chapters on the mental side of pool and how to improve, and of course the fundamentals of stance, bridge, stroke, etc. A great reference tool...simply well done!Capelle's other books are very worth looking into, especially if you happen to really love 9-ball or Straight Pool: A Mind for Pool (all about the mental side of pool, including competitive pool), Play Your Best 9-Ball (everything on the main tournament game), and Play Your Best Straight Pool (a total immersion into this classic game).
"mcdoog_99"
The absolute best book on pool! ever!, September 4, 2003
I bought this book about 4 months ago, when i was just getting into the game, and today my game has jumped in leaps and bounds, whether its cue ball control, strategy, english, spin, you name it, i can do it, and beat the best of them, and i can honestly say, this book is what has made the difference. I have no one to teach me, no one to show me how to play a shot, but whenever i have a problem i go back to this book and i learn something new everytime, i have read it about 10 times over. I highly recommend this book, to beginners and experienced players, read it and watch the quantum leap in your game. Phil Capelle is a master teacher.
"iceman786"
All your past books in one..., July 5, 2002
The only bad thing about this book is that my league handicap went up by two balls before I even finished reading it! I own over 20 books and 30 videos; it's like Capelle has read them all and condensed the information into one easy to comprehend and understandable book. IT'S GREAT! Maybe not for a beginner, but I can't imagine a better book on the subject. He covers all the bases: basics, shots, strategy, position, banks, kicks, theory, mental, drills, practical shots and practice tips. There are many good books; but this is perhaps the best and most well rounded overall one book I've been fortunate to read. I have only four comments: 1. It really improved my game physically and mentally 2. If I could keep only one book, about pool, this would be it! 3. I wish I had written it. 4. THANKS, Phil Capelle
Rick Jennings
If you want to get better, BUY THIS BOOK., June 17, 2002
I have been playing pool seriously for a long time (nearly ten years). I have read tons of books and watched many hours of videos. Play your best pool is the most comprehensive single instructional resource I have encountered. I bought it early in my career and it has helped my game tremendously ever since. This book is a classic along with Robert Byrnes Standard Book of Pool and Billiards. If you were to only buy one book I recommend Play Your Best Pool although Byrnes book is a masterpiece as well.
The lessons and tips are laid out in an easy to understand way and there are loads of diagrams to help you along the way. Everything is covered in this book. After reading you will have in depth knowledge of 1: Fundamentals(stance, alignment, grip proper bridging) 2: Stroking- 1 and 2 are the most important things in the game. Master them and everything else will follow.3: Proper aiming (what kind of cue ball/object ball contact causes balls to fall, a sample aiming method) 4: English (how to apply english, different kinds and
mixtures of spin, the affects of enlish on your aim, cue ball and object ball)5: Position play and pattern play (recurrent patterns, how to plan your racks and how to use position zones and position strategies maximize your percentages) 6: Safety play (various safeties as well as general safety theory and strategies) the method to measure safety zones is both extremely simple and highly useful. 7: The break shot (where to aim at the rack, how to generate power and where to position the cue ball) 8: Eight and nine ball specific strategies 9: Effective practice routines and drills 10: Competitive play
This book is essential for any pool player and would make an excellent gift for an aspiring player. The earlier in your career you are exposed to the knowledge contained here the better. It is ten times easier to learn good habits then to break bad ones. I believe a very high level of play can be achieved by practicing the skills and applying the knowledge contained in this book. If you are a casual/recreational player or a fairly serious player who only wants to gain a lot of skill (rather than making the huge sacrifices of time and money it takes to truly master this game), then this is the only book you will ever need. The material is presented in a manner that is fun to read and accessible to most 8th graders and up. The game of pool will no longer intimidate but rather inspire. Take this book as your companion and have fun along your journey. In this game you never know what will happen next!
dropin'em
excellent reference and users guide, May 31, 2002
This book covers every aspect of playing pool. I have read the entire book, many points i knew and many i did not. he gave a lot of scenarios on eight and nine ball and the reasoning on why to choose certain shots over others. If i could find any fault it would be having too many scenarios, but that is not bad, just makes for long reading. i particularly enjoyed the practice sessions, these are very informative and are improving my skill, especially straightening out my stroke. it can be used later as a reference when trying to resolve new problems in your game. the book is well organized and it is easy to go back into the book to find a specific point. i highly recommend this book.
"badaandy"
If you can have only ONE book, buy this!!, June 29, 2001
I own 3 pool & billiard books and 2 billiard instructional videos. I must say that this book is very helpful for explaining important fundamentals, aiming, and shotmaking. A beginner or intermediate player will definitely improve his game by buying this book. The chapter on ENGLISH is the best written on the subject I have ever read. Phil Capelle explains in detail the effect of deflection, curve, and throw on your shots. If you have been always amazed on how the pros use english to control the cue ball AND make the shot, then this book will teach you how. With practice, you can beat most of your friends who haven't read a book on POOL theory.
A Customer
BEST BOOK TO LEARN POOL, December 6, 2000
This book is incredible! I have been reading and working with it for about a year and my game has improved from a very poor player to better than average. The language in this book is easy to understand. Mr. Capelle knows how to explain those complicated principles of physics in simple english. This is a big book that has lots of examples and easy to read diagrams. I gave my 21 year old son a copy 3 months ago and he says his game has gotten much better. I have seen many of the other instruction books on pool and I rate this one a classic!
Pablo Neruda
This is THE book to have on pool!, June 30, 2000
This book is THE book to have if you really do want to play your best pool! It functions on many different levels. I first read it straight through, and picked up a ton of information. Like I realized that I was hold in the cue wrong! Can you believe it! I had my hand inside the line and could not swing my arm in a true pendulum motion. Mind you I have been playing for many years and have been known to run a rack or two of nine ball. I learned a bunch on actual principle of getting "shape". Stuff I thought I knew, or vaguely knew or had a concept of. But Mr. Capelle breaks it down to its most simple and clear forms. Now I know exactly how I want to come into a shape zone with the highest
probability of success. Just those two pieces of information have changed the way I look at and play the game. The other really cool thing about the book is the massive, detailed table of contents with complete chapter breakdowns. This thing is a great reference tool. Say you want to know about English? Boom, chapter 4. You want to know about specific types of English, say Inside English? Boom chapter 4, page 91. Basic pattern play of eight ball, Chapter 6 page 206. Kick shots in 9ball, Chapter 7 page 317. Anything you need to know you can find
in seconds. There are like 500 individual bits of information laid out just in the chapter index alone! If there was a PhD in billiards, this would be the textbook for the class. Don't believe me; just look who endorses the book, four world champions! Buy it, you'll get better.
Mike Murad
Ozone Billiards
Practice this way and improve your play...
If you are ready to follow instruction and have the patience and willpower to go thru this book one step at the time, be sure the result will be an exponential improve of your game. Yes you feel like jumping ahead to most complex exercises but that will be wrong Master the first 10 or 12 exercises and the rest of the book will be a lot easier to to understand and learn. In general, I can recomend this book as THE BEST BOOK ANY POOL PLAYER CAN OWN.
Oscar from Miami, FL. on July 24, 2012
Highly recommend
This book is full of great pool knowledge, I like how it breaks
down everything about pool in its own chapter.
Chris from Marion, KY on July 24, 2012
A Must Have for every player!
This book is a "Must Have" for every pool players' library!
Enough said!
Marvin from Terre Haute, IN on May 6, 2012
Great Book
i just received my copy and i would recommend this book to any one trying to get into their game.
Kevin from Jacksonville, FL on September 7, 2011
All the necessary info
This is Capelle's first and covers all the bases. Someone new to the game would really benefit from this one!
Robert from , on June 1, 2011
Great book
very informative for beginner to advanced to touch up on skills
EDWARD from BEIDLER on March 21, 2011
Very good book for all to read and then go back an review from time to time.
Bill from Il on October 22, 2010
Great Book....Will greatly improve your game!
I bought this book and it works. Read it, practice the shots and your game will increase! This book covers everything you need to get better.
Major focus on 8 Ball and 9 Ball. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to play better pool.
Phil from , on July 16, 2010
Awesome book
This book is easily the best book on pool and billiards I have ever owned. It has quickly become my "pool bible". I especially like the
sections on the mental game, and 8-ball9-ball strategies. Well written, easy to follow, and keeps your attention. Highly recommended.
Leland from , on June 11, 2010
Great Book!
Good information for getting and keeping my game intact! Well written and illustrated.
Richard on March 12, 2010
I think Capelle has the best books for general instruction. He is easy to read and has excellant figures. Focus is on the basics and the mental aspects with well written instruction. In my opinion it is best to start with Capelle until mastered then move on to others like the Monk.
William from va on March 6, 2010
Excellent book
Comprehensive and plenty of clear explanations that can be practiced.
Brian on February 6, 2010
Seybert’s
A must have
Play your best pool was the first pool book I bought from Phil Capelle's series of books. This book and Practicing pool are my favorite two. The diagrams are amazingly well done. The book is written well and a great place to start for beginners. That said, seasoned players can benefit from this book too. With about a dozen pool books in my collection, I would rate this as one of the best along with Capelle's Practicing Pool. If you could buy any one book, this would be the one.
Crackshot
One of the best pool books ever written
One of the best pool books ever written. Period. Especially useful for the beginners.I wish I read it when I started playing pool. It would save me a lot of time.
ronis
capelle is great
love all his books anyone wanting to better their game could learn something from his books. great insight into what it takes to compete in
pool.
abfloyd1971
Loaded!
This book is LOADED with excellent information on how to up your game and take it to the next level. The book is almost as thick as a phone book. Very straight forward and by far the best instructional book that I have read. I highly recommend this book from the beginner to the touring pro!
nmhunter3006
Tons of Info in one Book
This book has a ton of great information on all games and fundamentals to safety. Excellant product and tons of information.
tfw314
Simply the Best, August 6, 2012
The best pool book ever written. It has something for everyone at every level. From fundamentals to advanced play it takes the student through in an easily understandable format with manageable steps. The author has an
excellent grasp of what types of information will be of the most help in improving your game whether you are a total hack or an experienced player. Highly recommended!
John Half
Biggity-BAMM!!!, October 13, 2011
If you are looking for a billiards book with lots of images and a straightforward approach - this book is for you. I have several that were made
by different authors and this is definitely the best.
bladesupv
GREAT 5 STARS BOOK, August 11, 2011
THE BOOK IS GREAT, I saw it somewhere else, reading a few hours, and IS A 5 (five) STARS BOOK, one of the best, if not the best about this subject. Congratulations to Phil Capelle for such a good work.
THE DOWNSIDE of this book is not being printed color and on a good quality paper as THE ILLUSTRATED PRINCIPLES OF POOL AND BILLIARDS by David G. Alciatore.
A trader "G"
Helped a lot!!!, May 6, 2011
I love this book, I wouldn't consider myself a great pool player but when I read this book it helped me picture certain things like where the cue ball is gonna go after cutting a shot and how to use my english to make shots. This book has many diagrams and show situations you go thru almost every time you play pool. I recommend this book for anyone from showing interest in pool and all the way up, Will Help Your Game! I swear on it folks.
A. Peterson
Awesome book for all levels of players, March 23, 2011
This book is THE book for any pool player no matter how good or bad he/she plays since it goes right from the basics to covering all aspects of a professional pool player (talent, skill, technique and mental aspects too). I was already a good pool shot but my game was stagnated at that level and after reading this book and applying it my game has gone up 2-3 levels and i'm looking
forward to continue reaping the benefits of this book and play at the highest level very soon and i'm confident this book has everything I need to prepare myself to get to that level. I just love reading this book again n again.. it never ceases to delight me each time with new insights and ideas to improve my game. The best thing about this book is the in-numerous illustrations to explain
each and every shot that is out there to play and also the mental side of it.
Akshay Parakh
Great Book!, May 17, 2010
Great book. My game is improving every week. Hoping to be one of the top 15 shooters in my league this season!!
Kevin Montgomery "kmwestcoast"
Arguably the best book on pool, February 3, 201
I bought this book, the "99 critical shots..." and a couple more locally. Frankly, just this one would have been more than enough. There is
NOTHING in the "99 shots" or any of the other books I have that isn't covered by Capelle in this book and that would be of any value. Capelle goes beyond "what" you should do and also explains "why".
Dmitri Tarassenko
Good start, October 4, 2009
Its an good start for novice and too for advanced players , excellent way for teaching the basics and upmost form to play like a pro
Amilcar Edgardo Aleman Melo "mikeg"
play your best pool review, August 30, 2009
The book is very good and it is for any level of pool shooter. I felt that if I learned one thing from the book, I would be happy. I've learned many things so it's worth it. I'm still reading it but so far so good. I would say that this book if for the shooter that wants to improve their game - the less experienced you are, the more you are going to get out of this book.
Packer fan
Only book on pool I will need, February 25, 2009
I bought this book after reading many of the positive reviews. I was fairly new to serious pool at the time, and was looking for a comprehensive guide to really give me a way to organize my practice. This offers everything i needed and more. It will be a while before i can digest everything contained within. Everything i can say about this book has already been stated by many reviewers much more experienced than I. I simply enjoy watching my friends' jaws drop when i run the table and having some laughs while i do it with much less
effort and indecision than it used to require. Pool becomes more fun when you can challenge more advanced players and have interesting matches. Definitely worth every penny.
CtrlAltDlt
A very good manual, March 20, 2008
A very good book. Very comprehensive. Explanations, drawings are perfect. Perfect for training at home
Sean Wilkins
Very good!, May 16, 2007
I've read a number of books on the game of pool. I was very impressed with the authors grasp of the game as well as his very apparent love
of the game. He has obviously studied the art form intensely for many years. I felt that his realistic, open minded approach and access to many of the current greats of the game make his advice quite invaluable to the committed student of the game. Buy this book if you're serious about improving.
Beau Dupre Painting wealth of resource, May 6, 2007
Phil Capelle's book "Play Your Best Pool" is a wealth of resources. It is quite thorough and would be good for someone seriously interested in pool. It's got a 60+ page section on 8-ball, an equally thorough section on 9 ball, and more on the fundamentals, shotmaking, position play,how to improve, practice techniques, and equipment. My games have significantly improved by reading and using Capelle's book. Highly recommended. So much information that a novice might be overwhelmed, and it might not be so useful if
you don't have a home table to go through it all (I wish I did)...but still, an indispensable book.
S. Yelland "--S.Y."
Awesome in depth book, March 4,2007
I got this book when i first became serious about playing pool, while reading it my game just kept going up and up and up, now i break and run several times a night. before it would be make a ball or 2 and that was it for my runs. it is a great book.
Greg Burley
Play Your Best Pool, January 21, 2007
I have read eight books on pool. This is by far the best of the eight. The book is crammed with pool information. A no nonsense approach to playing the game. If you want to learn more about playing pool, this is the read.
James W. Schierlman
Good fundamentals, January 12, 2007
I was pretty good at pool many years ago and finally have the ability to play again. I don't play at all well now. This book has helped me
discover where my game is off. I needed to break down the basics and fix some problems areas. The info. in this book has helped me direct my children's pool game as well. It's easy reading and always there when I find the time to focus on the great game of pool
JB Chip
The best pool book out there!!, November 5, 2006
I have read several pool books, and trust me. THIS is the best!!! You can benefit from it no matter if you are a beginner, intermediate or an
expert player. This book is awesome. It covers the basics, as well as fine points of position play, practice methods, a guide to buy your own gear, principles of position play, and a whole section dedicated to nine ball and other to eight ball!!. Is the most complete book I have read!!
Edwin Zapata
Best there is, July 10, 2006
This is probably the best pool book for practical play out there. I have read "99 critical shots" and Byrne's books, but this one is better by
far. My game took a quantum leap after I had been working with this one for a while. Highly recommended!
Rolf Enger
Take your game to the next level., February 21, 2006
That is one of the things he tells you this book will do. I am about 1/2 the way through the book and it has already taken my game to the next level. It has also shown me ways to help the new players. The ghost ball is great for a new player. I am an APA player, 6 in 8-ball and will go to 7 because of this book. That is saying alot for a book.
J. Mike Davis
Read the best book about pool, January 19, 2006
I have buyed several books about pool. This one is best of them all. You probably know how to hold a cuestick, and you wish to know more about 8 and 9 ball games (as well as others). This one is for you. On more than 400 pages for reasonable price, you will learn advanced techniques and improve your game a lot. The way as Philip Capelle explain what's going on the table is very good. If you have to buy one book of the pool, then buy only this one. Great book.
banem
Can't get more complete than this..., January 5, 2004
What can you really say, other than wow. This is probably the best introduction to pool out there, other than Byrne's Standard, a good book in its own right. But here, Capelle is able to go into more detail on topics such as English, position play, and especially 8-ball and 9-ball strategy. And the list goes on...practice drills, chapters on the mental side of pool and how to improve, and of course the fundamentals of stance, bridge, stroke, etc. A great reference tool...simply well done!Capelle's other books are very worth looking into, especially if you happen to really love 9-ball or Straight Pool: A Mind for Pool (all about the mental side of pool, including competitive pool), Play Your Best 9-Ball (everything on the main tournament game), and Play Your Best Straight Pool (a total immersion into this classic game).
"mcdoog_99"
The absolute best book on pool! ever!, September 4, 2003
I bought this book about 4 months ago, when i was just getting into the game, and today my game has jumped in leaps and bounds, whether its cue ball control, strategy, english, spin, you name it, i can do it, and beat the best of them, and i can honestly say, this book is what has made the difference. I have no one to teach me, no one to show me how to play a shot, but whenever i have a problem i go back to this book and i learn something new everytime, i have read it about 10 times over. I highly recommend this book, to beginners and experienced players, read it and watch the quantum leap in your game. Phil Capelle is a master teacher.
"iceman786"
All your past books in one..., July 5, 2002
The only bad thing about this book is that my league handicap went up by two balls before I even finished reading it! I own over 20 books and 30 videos; it's like Capelle has read them all and condensed the information into one easy to comprehend and understandable book. IT'S GREAT! Maybe not for a beginner, but I can't imagine a better book on the subject. He covers all the bases: basics, shots, strategy, position, banks, kicks, theory, mental, drills, practical shots and practice tips. There are many good books; but this is perhaps the best and most well rounded overall one book I've been fortunate to read. I have only four comments: 1. It really improved my game physically and mentally 2. If I could keep only one book, about pool, this would be it! 3. I wish I had written it. 4. THANKS, Phil Capelle
Rick Jennings
If you want to get better, BUY THIS BOOK., June 17, 2002
I have been playing pool seriously for a long time (nearly ten years). I have read tons of books and watched many hours of videos. Play your best pool is the most comprehensive single instructional resource I have encountered. I bought it early in my career and it has helped my game tremendously ever since. This book is a classic along with Robert Byrnes Standard Book of Pool and Billiards. If you were to only buy one book I recommend Play Your Best Pool although Byrnes book is a masterpiece as well.
The lessons and tips are laid out in an easy to understand way and there are loads of diagrams to help you along the way. Everything is covered in this book. After reading you will have in depth knowledge of 1: Fundamentals(stance, alignment, grip proper bridging) 2: Stroking- 1 and 2 are the most important things in the game. Master them and everything else will follow.3: Proper aiming (what kind of cue ball/object ball contact causes balls to fall, a sample aiming method) 4: English (how to apply english, different kinds and
mixtures of spin, the affects of enlish on your aim, cue ball and object ball)5: Position play and pattern play (recurrent patterns, how to plan your racks and how to use position zones and position strategies maximize your percentages) 6: Safety play (various safeties as well as general safety theory and strategies) the method to measure safety zones is both extremely simple and highly useful. 7: The break shot (where to aim at the rack, how to generate power and where to position the cue ball) 8: Eight and nine ball specific strategies 9: Effective practice routines and drills 10: Competitive play
This book is essential for any pool player and would make an excellent gift for an aspiring player. The earlier in your career you are exposed to the knowledge contained here the better. It is ten times easier to learn good habits then to break bad ones. I believe a very high level of play can be achieved by practicing the skills and applying the knowledge contained in this book. If you are a casual/recreational player or a fairly serious player who only wants to gain a lot of skill (rather than making the huge sacrifices of time and money it takes to truly master this game), then this is the only book you will ever need. The material is presented in a manner that is fun to read and accessible to most 8th graders and up. The game of pool will no longer intimidate but rather inspire. Take this book as your companion and have fun along your journey. In this game you never know what will happen next!
dropin'em
excellent reference and users guide, May 31, 2002
This book covers every aspect of playing pool. I have read the entire book, many points i knew and many i did not. he gave a lot of scenarios on eight and nine ball and the reasoning on why to choose certain shots over others. If i could find any fault it would be having too many scenarios, but that is not bad, just makes for long reading. i particularly enjoyed the practice sessions, these are very informative and are improving my skill, especially straightening out my stroke. it can be used later as a reference when trying to resolve new problems in your game. the book is well organized and it is easy to go back into the book to find a specific point. i highly recommend this book.
"badaandy"
If you can have only ONE book, buy this!!, June 29, 2001
I own 3 pool & billiard books and 2 billiard instructional videos. I must say that this book is very helpful for explaining important fundamentals, aiming, and shotmaking. A beginner or intermediate player will definitely improve his game by buying this book. The chapter on ENGLISH is the best written on the subject I have ever read. Phil Capelle explains in detail the effect of deflection, curve, and throw on your shots. If you have been always amazed on how the pros use english to control the cue ball AND make the shot, then this book will teach you how. With practice, you can beat most of your friends who haven't read a book on POOL theory.
A Customer
BEST BOOK TO LEARN POOL, December 6, 2000
This book is incredible! I have been reading and working with it for about a year and my game has improved from a very poor player to better than average. The language in this book is easy to understand. Mr. Capelle knows how to explain those complicated principles of physics in simple english. This is a big book that has lots of examples and easy to read diagrams. I gave my 21 year old son a copy 3 months ago and he says his game has gotten much better. I have seen many of the other instruction books on pool and I rate this one a classic!
Pablo Neruda
This is THE book to have on pool!, June 30, 2000
This book is THE book to have if you really do want to play your best pool! It functions on many different levels. I first read it straight through, and picked up a ton of information. Like I realized that I was hold in the cue wrong! Can you believe it! I had my hand inside the line and could not swing my arm in a true pendulum motion. Mind you I have been playing for many years and have been known to run a rack or two of nine ball. I learned a bunch on actual principle of getting "shape". Stuff I thought I knew, or vaguely knew or had a concept of. But Mr. Capelle breaks it down to its most simple and clear forms. Now I know exactly how I want to come into a shape zone with the highest
probability of success. Just those two pieces of information have changed the way I look at and play the game. The other really cool thing about the book is the massive, detailed table of contents with complete chapter breakdowns. This thing is a great reference tool. Say you want to know about English? Boom, chapter 4. You want to know about specific types of English, say Inside English? Boom chapter 4, page 91. Basic pattern play of eight ball, Chapter 6 page 206. Kick shots in 9ball, Chapter 7 page 317. Anything you need to know you can find
in seconds. There are like 500 individual bits of information laid out just in the chapter index alone! If there was a PhD in billiards, this would be the textbook for the class. Don't believe me; just look who endorses the book, four world champions! Buy it, you'll get better.
Mike Murad
Ozone Billiards
Practice this way and improve your play...
If you are ready to follow instruction and have the patience and willpower to go thru this book one step at the time, be sure the result will be an exponential improve of your game. Yes you feel like jumping ahead to most complex exercises but that will be wrong Master the first 10 or 12 exercises and the rest of the book will be a lot easier to to understand and learn. In general, I can recomend this book as THE BEST BOOK ANY POOL PLAYER CAN OWN.
Oscar from Miami, FL. on July 24, 2012
Highly recommend
This book is full of great pool knowledge, I like how it breaks
down everything about pool in its own chapter.
Chris from Marion, KY on July 24, 2012
A Must Have for every player!
This book is a "Must Have" for every pool players' library!
Enough said!
Marvin from Terre Haute, IN on May 6, 2012
Great Book
i just received my copy and i would recommend this book to any one trying to get into their game.
Kevin from Jacksonville, FL on September 7, 2011
All the necessary info
This is Capelle's first and covers all the bases. Someone new to the game would really benefit from this one!
Robert from , on June 1, 2011
Great book
very informative for beginner to advanced to touch up on skills
EDWARD from BEIDLER on March 21, 2011
Very good book for all to read and then go back an review from time to time.
Bill from Il on October 22, 2010
Great Book....Will greatly improve your game!
I bought this book and it works. Read it, practice the shots and your game will increase! This book covers everything you need to get better.
Major focus on 8 Ball and 9 Ball. I recommend this book to anyone wanting to play better pool.
Phil from , on July 16, 2010
Awesome book
This book is easily the best book on pool and billiards I have ever owned. It has quickly become my "pool bible". I especially like the
sections on the mental game, and 8-ball9-ball strategies. Well written, easy to follow, and keeps your attention. Highly recommended.
Leland from , on June 11, 2010
Great Book!
Good information for getting and keeping my game intact! Well written and illustrated.
Richard on March 12, 2010
I think Capelle has the best books for general instruction. He is easy to read and has excellant figures. Focus is on the basics and the mental aspects with well written instruction. In my opinion it is best to start with Capelle until mastered then move on to others like the Monk.
William from va on March 6, 2010
Excellent book
Comprehensive and plenty of clear explanations that can be practiced.
Brian on February 6, 2010
Seybert’s
A must have
Play your best pool was the first pool book I bought from Phil Capelle's series of books. This book and Practicing pool are my favorite two. The diagrams are amazingly well done. The book is written well and a great place to start for beginners. That said, seasoned players can benefit from this book too. With about a dozen pool books in my collection, I would rate this as one of the best along with Capelle's Practicing Pool. If you could buy any one book, this would be the one.
Crackshot
One of the best pool books ever written
One of the best pool books ever written. Period. Especially useful for the beginners.I wish I read it when I started playing pool. It would save me a lot of time.
ronis
capelle is great
love all his books anyone wanting to better their game could learn something from his books. great insight into what it takes to compete in
pool.
abfloyd1971
Loaded!
This book is LOADED with excellent information on how to up your game and take it to the next level. The book is almost as thick as a phone book. Very straight forward and by far the best instructional book that I have read. I highly recommend this book from the beginner to the touring pro!
nmhunter3006
Tons of Info in one Book
This book has a ton of great information on all games and fundamentals to safety. Excellant product and tons of information.
tfw314
Play Your Best Straight Pool
Amazon
play your best straight pool, October 25, 2012
Without a doubt this is the best book on Straight Pool. It is an exhaustive review of everything involved in the game.
Bill
It's real Love Baby, November 29, 2010
His labor of love "Play Your Best Straight Pool" he has given pool a lasting contribution by dissecting the greatest of games. This book is the finest in its genre and one can only hope Capelle will bless us with a sequel. (an excerpt – full review elsewhere)
Elliot S. Eisenberg
A Rare Find!, July 11, 2007
I've looked everywhere for books or video's that would provide instruction on the proper way to play Straight Pool. There were dozens of players that offered dozens of home-spun versions of the game, but until now, I have been spinning my wheels. This is the best and most comprehensive book that I have ever seen on ANY game of pool. I'm well acquainted with Mr. Capelle’s previous publications, but none of them even come close to this one. I think the knowledge that a Player gains in Straight Pool is vital to his/her overall growth & skill potential. This book gives more and better information than many Instructors provide. It's worth every penny
E. LaBane "Retired"
straight pool bible, May 10, 2007
I have skimmed all of the book, have read parts of it carefully, and will continue to consult different chapters from time to time. I seldom play
straight pool but practice it quite often. This book showed me some things I didn't know and pointed out some things I knew but hadn't paid enough attention to. It's detailed and thorough. I may not reach my lifetime goal of running 100 balls but this book will put at least a few balls on my occasional high run. It's a good book to read just before going out to hit balls.
louie ganooie
Your Pool Reference, April 10, 2007
This reference guide for pool will show you every possible shot you may have to take. Your game will greatly improve with the tips in this
book.
Marina Kushner
excellent book on pool, February 3, 2007
I am a above average pool player, this book covers everything. if
your looking to excel at pool get this book better than any video you could
watch. excellent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
W. Laferriere
The best book on straight pool available today, January 9, 2007
If you want to improve your game, no matter what you play, this book will greatly help you. This is the definitive book on straight pool. It leads you through every possible situation you could run across and shows you how to deal with it. The book can be used as a reference for any pool game. This book belongs in any serious pool player's library.
pool devotee
You will not be disappointed, September 23, 2005
What more can I say. I would find it hard to believe that any book covering any form of pool would be more beneficial to you than this one.
It doesn't start from the beginner's level but if you can sink a ball while using english, bank balls in and make a combination shot, you are ready to learn what this book can teach you.
T. Sabo
Great book on a great game, March 12, 2002
"An entire book could be written on the virtues of this wonderful but neglected game," the author writes in his first work, Play Your Best Pool.
Well here is the entire book. Straight Pool was the third pool game I learned how to play (after 8 and 9 ball), and it always appealed to me, partly because fewer people play it these days (due to the other two games), and partly due to its emphasis on all-around skill and it's "reserved" character, compared to the explosiveness of nine-ball. Here, Capelle covers everything one would need to know about 14.1: position play, break shots, sequence, safety, strategy, you name it. A must-have for anyone enamored of Straight Pool. The only other book I've found to cover 14.1 with such thoroughness would be Fels' Advanced Pool; other books treat it along with other pool games (not necessarily rendering their books worthless by any means). I'm not always able to play on a regular basis, so I probably won't run a hundred anytime soon...but that doesn't mean I'll stop enjoying playing pool, especially playing it Straight.
"mcdoog_99"
Best pool book purchase I've ever made, January 4, 2002
First off, this is by far the best, most comprehensive straight pool book that I've ever read. Much like his previous "Play Your Best Pool",
Capelle does an excellent job of breaking down all aspects of straight pool (position play, break shots, strategy, defense, etc). And much like "Play Your Best Pool", I'd bet that players of all levels (from intro to advanced) will be able to gain insight and knowledge from this book. With that said, though, I'd recommend not reading the book cover-to-cover. It should rather be used as a guide - read the chapters that apply to you as a player.
Like many, when I first began playing pool, I started off with 8 ball and eventually moved to 9 ball. After a couple years, I began playing some of the other games (straight pool, 1 pocket, billiards, etc) and now love straight pool the most. More than any other game, it requires a player to master all aspects of pool, such as position play, shotmaking, defense, and above all, knowledge. As such, in my opinion, anyone with an interest in straight pool who reads this book can't help but improve their game. I'd recommend purchasing some Accu-Stat straight pool tapes in addition to this book. You'll then be able to see some of the principles in practice. Hope this helps!
Scott Choy
Excellent book on Straight Pool - sure to improve your game!, February 28, 2001
By way of background, let me start out by saying that I'm an "A" player, and I've read them all through the years - Byrne, Martin, Fels, Koehler, Harris, etc. I learned the game with a copy of Ray Martin's 99 Critical Shots and a lot of practice, later turned to Byrne's excellent texts (keep them coming as far as I'm concerned), satisfied my scientific curiousity with Koehler's Scientific Principles of Pool and Billiards, added Walt Harris' Billiard Atlas series, and filled in with other books and videos found along the way - some good, most of them repetitive, some even just plain wrong. Just when I thought I was done, a few years ago Phil Capelle writes Play Your Best Pool, a great and very thorough book, although maybe lacking in some of the finer, more advanced points. Then came A Mind for Pool, a pretty good read into the mental aspects of the game. So when his latest book, Play Your Best Straight Pool came out, I just had to buy it. I was not disappointed.
This book covers EVERY aspect of the great game of straight pool - entire chapters are devoted to break shots (primary and secondary), position play, recurring patterns, key ball concepts, safety play, etc. I remember learning the basic concepts of straight pool from Fel's Mastering Pool - this book expounds on those concepts in great detail. The numerous diagrams are drawn expertly and to scale, and the information seems like it will never end. Even though I read the book cover to cover, it is really meant to be taken in sections and studied, or even to use the sections as reference material from time to time. Since there is a lot of advanced information here, Mr. Capelle has gone through the trouble of indicating the sections that are especially relevant for beginners, so they do not have to wade through all the material to find points of interest. While a good player can run a few racks of straight pool on talent alone, this book simplifies the game and offers insight into how the pros regularly run 100 or 150 balls and up. Anyone reading this book will increase their balls per inning average and will most assuredly beat their current high run.
I have only one complaint, and it was not serious enough to lower my rating. In my version, all of the fractions used in the text (¼ ball, ½
diamond, etc.) were printed incorrectly -for example, ½ showed up as `fi (or something like that). Luckily, the mistakes were consistent throughout the text (must have been an error during typesetting) and were easy to decipher. Perhaps this problem has already been corrected, as I'm sure my copy came from the first run.
Bottom line - if you want to play better straight pool, buy this book!
Scott J. Rohleder
Ozone Billiards
A book everyone can get something from
When great books are discussed on the subject this isn't one of them. You won't find such a book on any 'must own' book lists because it is
neither an all encompassing book or a book targeted at today's two most popular games. However, it may be the finest straight pool book on the market. Because of that, it may be the finest pool book on the market. Every game has skills that are a byproduct of the skills needed to play great straight pool and no other book lines them out like this one. When it comes to managing position, patterns, clusters and safeties few others go into the depth and clarity found here.
Brophog from Chicago on April 6, 2012
Top book
This book on straight pool is packed with info that I have not seen in most books. And it goes into amazing depth with each subject. Especially interesting is the 3 parts of the game in each rack and how to run a rack. IT's the best book I have read so far on pool, period.
Robert Minchin from Chicago on May 4, 2011
Play your best Straight Pool
Great book , a lot of information. A must read for anyone interested in learning straight pool.
Jose on April 12, 2010
Best book on Straight Pool EVER!
1. Straight pool will make you a better play since you have to run more balls, break up more clusters, work in tight spaces, do more combo\'s and caroms, have PRECISE cue ball control, get used to bridging over balls, and so much more.And this book will teach you the secrets of pattern play, shot selection,pitfalls of sloppy position, etc.Get this book and you will learn sooo much!
Dan Werner on October 1, 2008
Seybert’s
Best Book on 14.1
By far a must have when it comes to straight pool, Phil did an amazing job with layouts and scenarios to bring your straight pool game to the
next level and beyond.Highly recommended read
stevekur1
The best straight pool book I've come across
There aren't many 14.1 books. This one is the best I've read. Highly recommended.
ronis
play your best straight pool, October 25, 2012
Without a doubt this is the best book on Straight Pool. It is an exhaustive review of everything involved in the game.
Bill
It's real Love Baby, November 29, 2010
His labor of love "Play Your Best Straight Pool" he has given pool a lasting contribution by dissecting the greatest of games. This book is the finest in its genre and one can only hope Capelle will bless us with a sequel. (an excerpt – full review elsewhere)
Elliot S. Eisenberg
A Rare Find!, July 11, 2007
I've looked everywhere for books or video's that would provide instruction on the proper way to play Straight Pool. There were dozens of players that offered dozens of home-spun versions of the game, but until now, I have been spinning my wheels. This is the best and most comprehensive book that I have ever seen on ANY game of pool. I'm well acquainted with Mr. Capelle’s previous publications, but none of them even come close to this one. I think the knowledge that a Player gains in Straight Pool is vital to his/her overall growth & skill potential. This book gives more and better information than many Instructors provide. It's worth every penny
E. LaBane "Retired"
straight pool bible, May 10, 2007
I have skimmed all of the book, have read parts of it carefully, and will continue to consult different chapters from time to time. I seldom play
straight pool but practice it quite often. This book showed me some things I didn't know and pointed out some things I knew but hadn't paid enough attention to. It's detailed and thorough. I may not reach my lifetime goal of running 100 balls but this book will put at least a few balls on my occasional high run. It's a good book to read just before going out to hit balls.
louie ganooie
Your Pool Reference, April 10, 2007
This reference guide for pool will show you every possible shot you may have to take. Your game will greatly improve with the tips in this
book.
Marina Kushner
excellent book on pool, February 3, 2007
I am a above average pool player, this book covers everything. if
your looking to excel at pool get this book better than any video you could
watch. excellent!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
W. Laferriere
The best book on straight pool available today, January 9, 2007
If you want to improve your game, no matter what you play, this book will greatly help you. This is the definitive book on straight pool. It leads you through every possible situation you could run across and shows you how to deal with it. The book can be used as a reference for any pool game. This book belongs in any serious pool player's library.
pool devotee
You will not be disappointed, September 23, 2005
What more can I say. I would find it hard to believe that any book covering any form of pool would be more beneficial to you than this one.
It doesn't start from the beginner's level but if you can sink a ball while using english, bank balls in and make a combination shot, you are ready to learn what this book can teach you.
T. Sabo
Great book on a great game, March 12, 2002
"An entire book could be written on the virtues of this wonderful but neglected game," the author writes in his first work, Play Your Best Pool.
Well here is the entire book. Straight Pool was the third pool game I learned how to play (after 8 and 9 ball), and it always appealed to me, partly because fewer people play it these days (due to the other two games), and partly due to its emphasis on all-around skill and it's "reserved" character, compared to the explosiveness of nine-ball. Here, Capelle covers everything one would need to know about 14.1: position play, break shots, sequence, safety, strategy, you name it. A must-have for anyone enamored of Straight Pool. The only other book I've found to cover 14.1 with such thoroughness would be Fels' Advanced Pool; other books treat it along with other pool games (not necessarily rendering their books worthless by any means). I'm not always able to play on a regular basis, so I probably won't run a hundred anytime soon...but that doesn't mean I'll stop enjoying playing pool, especially playing it Straight.
"mcdoog_99"
Best pool book purchase I've ever made, January 4, 2002
First off, this is by far the best, most comprehensive straight pool book that I've ever read. Much like his previous "Play Your Best Pool",
Capelle does an excellent job of breaking down all aspects of straight pool (position play, break shots, strategy, defense, etc). And much like "Play Your Best Pool", I'd bet that players of all levels (from intro to advanced) will be able to gain insight and knowledge from this book. With that said, though, I'd recommend not reading the book cover-to-cover. It should rather be used as a guide - read the chapters that apply to you as a player.
Like many, when I first began playing pool, I started off with 8 ball and eventually moved to 9 ball. After a couple years, I began playing some of the other games (straight pool, 1 pocket, billiards, etc) and now love straight pool the most. More than any other game, it requires a player to master all aspects of pool, such as position play, shotmaking, defense, and above all, knowledge. As such, in my opinion, anyone with an interest in straight pool who reads this book can't help but improve their game. I'd recommend purchasing some Accu-Stat straight pool tapes in addition to this book. You'll then be able to see some of the principles in practice. Hope this helps!
Scott Choy
Excellent book on Straight Pool - sure to improve your game!, February 28, 2001
By way of background, let me start out by saying that I'm an "A" player, and I've read them all through the years - Byrne, Martin, Fels, Koehler, Harris, etc. I learned the game with a copy of Ray Martin's 99 Critical Shots and a lot of practice, later turned to Byrne's excellent texts (keep them coming as far as I'm concerned), satisfied my scientific curiousity with Koehler's Scientific Principles of Pool and Billiards, added Walt Harris' Billiard Atlas series, and filled in with other books and videos found along the way - some good, most of them repetitive, some even just plain wrong. Just when I thought I was done, a few years ago Phil Capelle writes Play Your Best Pool, a great and very thorough book, although maybe lacking in some of the finer, more advanced points. Then came A Mind for Pool, a pretty good read into the mental aspects of the game. So when his latest book, Play Your Best Straight Pool came out, I just had to buy it. I was not disappointed.
This book covers EVERY aspect of the great game of straight pool - entire chapters are devoted to break shots (primary and secondary), position play, recurring patterns, key ball concepts, safety play, etc. I remember learning the basic concepts of straight pool from Fel's Mastering Pool - this book expounds on those concepts in great detail. The numerous diagrams are drawn expertly and to scale, and the information seems like it will never end. Even though I read the book cover to cover, it is really meant to be taken in sections and studied, or even to use the sections as reference material from time to time. Since there is a lot of advanced information here, Mr. Capelle has gone through the trouble of indicating the sections that are especially relevant for beginners, so they do not have to wade through all the material to find points of interest. While a good player can run a few racks of straight pool on talent alone, this book simplifies the game and offers insight into how the pros regularly run 100 or 150 balls and up. Anyone reading this book will increase their balls per inning average and will most assuredly beat their current high run.
I have only one complaint, and it was not serious enough to lower my rating. In my version, all of the fractions used in the text (¼ ball, ½
diamond, etc.) were printed incorrectly -for example, ½ showed up as `fi (or something like that). Luckily, the mistakes were consistent throughout the text (must have been an error during typesetting) and were easy to decipher. Perhaps this problem has already been corrected, as I'm sure my copy came from the first run.
Bottom line - if you want to play better straight pool, buy this book!
Scott J. Rohleder
Ozone Billiards
A book everyone can get something from
When great books are discussed on the subject this isn't one of them. You won't find such a book on any 'must own' book lists because it is
neither an all encompassing book or a book targeted at today's two most popular games. However, it may be the finest straight pool book on the market. Because of that, it may be the finest pool book on the market. Every game has skills that are a byproduct of the skills needed to play great straight pool and no other book lines them out like this one. When it comes to managing position, patterns, clusters and safeties few others go into the depth and clarity found here.
Brophog from Chicago on April 6, 2012
Top book
This book on straight pool is packed with info that I have not seen in most books. And it goes into amazing depth with each subject. Especially interesting is the 3 parts of the game in each rack and how to run a rack. IT's the best book I have read so far on pool, period.
Robert Minchin from Chicago on May 4, 2011
Play your best Straight Pool
Great book , a lot of information. A must read for anyone interested in learning straight pool.
Jose on April 12, 2010
Best book on Straight Pool EVER!
1. Straight pool will make you a better play since you have to run more balls, break up more clusters, work in tight spaces, do more combo\'s and caroms, have PRECISE cue ball control, get used to bridging over balls, and so much more.And this book will teach you the secrets of pattern play, shot selection,pitfalls of sloppy position, etc.Get this book and you will learn sooo much!
Dan Werner on October 1, 2008
Seybert’s
Best Book on 14.1
By far a must have when it comes to straight pool, Phil did an amazing job with layouts and scenarios to bring your straight pool game to the
next level and beyond.Highly recommended read
stevekur1
The best straight pool book I've come across
There aren't many 14.1 books. This one is the best I've read. Highly recommended.
ronis
Play Your Best Nine Ball
Amazon
Exhaustively thorough, May 7, 2007
This book is similar to "Play Your Best Pool" and has some overlapping content, but focuses on 9-ball. Exhaustively thorough for the true enthusiast of the game.
S. Yelland "--S.Y."
Inside the mind of a Pool Master!, July 23, 2002
Phil Capelle takes you inside the mind of a Pool Master as he discloses anything and everything you need to know to excel at 9-Ball. Why he even tells you how to beat players of all levels (in his chapter on strategy) without even having to improve your skills one iota, simply by playing a smarter game. But make no mistake about it, Capelle covers the toughest aspects of the game like no other book, in big chapters on position play, pattern play, kicking, safety play and so much more. If you seriously want to take your game to a new level, (and the sky's the limit) Then this is the book. Bravo Phil!
A Customer
A very thorough examination of nine ball, October 1, 2002
Phil Capelle has done a great justice for those who want to take their 9-ball game to the next level. He hasn't cut any corners in this definitive work. He covers all the angles (pun intended): english, throw, pattern play, safeties, kicking, competition strategy, realistic
self-assessment, practice routines, you name it. What I find remarkable about this book is the completeness in which all of the subjects are covered. As a stickler when it comes to reading, my only complaint would be the odd typo here and there. Certainly not enough to distract from the rich and very useful material, however. I have read at least fifteen books on pool and none comes
close to "Play Your Best Nine Ball." Very well done, Mr. Capelle!
Kevin McCann
Best book on nine ball!, December 15, 2001
I own all pool books from Mr. Capelle. This one is loaded with great information about nine ball covering every aspect of the game. A must own for every serious nine ball player!
A Customer
Phil Capelle's books on 8-ball, 9-ball and Straight Pool, December 12, 2005 In reading Phil Capelle's series of books on 8-ball, 9-ball and
Straight Pool, I think Phil's books are among the most advanced and well-written books that I've seen on improving one's strategy and tactics in playing pool.
A. Derman
Ozone
powerful information
great book loaded with lots of information
james from e Windsor, NJ on October 4,
2012
Ok
Very good
sidney from Miami Florida on May 28, 2012
Seybert's
got this for christmas
i have read it and have learned more from this then i could have just banging balls around the diagrams are very easy to follow along with the text it is a must read for anyone looking to take there game to the next level
9ballkid
Excellent book.
A must for any person trying to improve their 9 ball game. Book goes into great detail about safety play, patterns, kicks, and banking. Book
also explains the difference between A, B and C level players as well as how to play a higher or lower level player. Book also goes into the mindset of how to succeed in 9 ball. I highly recommend this book to anybody looking to improve their 9 ball game.
Rrich1
Exhaustively thorough, May 7, 2007
This book is similar to "Play Your Best Pool" and has some overlapping content, but focuses on 9-ball. Exhaustively thorough for the true enthusiast of the game.
S. Yelland "--S.Y."
Inside the mind of a Pool Master!, July 23, 2002
Phil Capelle takes you inside the mind of a Pool Master as he discloses anything and everything you need to know to excel at 9-Ball. Why he even tells you how to beat players of all levels (in his chapter on strategy) without even having to improve your skills one iota, simply by playing a smarter game. But make no mistake about it, Capelle covers the toughest aspects of the game like no other book, in big chapters on position play, pattern play, kicking, safety play and so much more. If you seriously want to take your game to a new level, (and the sky's the limit) Then this is the book. Bravo Phil!
A Customer
A very thorough examination of nine ball, October 1, 2002
Phil Capelle has done a great justice for those who want to take their 9-ball game to the next level. He hasn't cut any corners in this definitive work. He covers all the angles (pun intended): english, throw, pattern play, safeties, kicking, competition strategy, realistic
self-assessment, practice routines, you name it. What I find remarkable about this book is the completeness in which all of the subjects are covered. As a stickler when it comes to reading, my only complaint would be the odd typo here and there. Certainly not enough to distract from the rich and very useful material, however. I have read at least fifteen books on pool and none comes
close to "Play Your Best Nine Ball." Very well done, Mr. Capelle!
Kevin McCann
Best book on nine ball!, December 15, 2001
I own all pool books from Mr. Capelle. This one is loaded with great information about nine ball covering every aspect of the game. A must own for every serious nine ball player!
A Customer
Phil Capelle's books on 8-ball, 9-ball and Straight Pool, December 12, 2005 In reading Phil Capelle's series of books on 8-ball, 9-ball and
Straight Pool, I think Phil's books are among the most advanced and well-written books that I've seen on improving one's strategy and tactics in playing pool.
A. Derman
Ozone
powerful information
great book loaded with lots of information
james from e Windsor, NJ on October 4,
2012
Ok
Very good
sidney from Miami Florida on May 28, 2012
Seybert's
got this for christmas
i have read it and have learned more from this then i could have just banging balls around the diagrams are very easy to follow along with the text it is a must read for anyone looking to take there game to the next level
9ballkid
Excellent book.
A must for any person trying to improve their 9 ball game. Book goes into great detail about safety play, patterns, kicks, and banking. Book
also explains the difference between A, B and C level players as well as how to play a higher or lower level player. Book also goes into the mindset of how to succeed in 9 ball. I highly recommend this book to anybody looking to improve their 9 ball game.
Rrich1
Play Your Best Eight
Amazon
Great book!, December 2, 2012
Good reading material regarding eight ball and other aspects which come Into play in all pool games. Great book, I recommend it to all.
Justin J. Greber
Buy this book, June 25, 2012
This book is one of many pool books I own. I take some useful info from each one to run more tables.Great addition to the library! I like this one best!
n8 the gr8
Simply the Best!, November 3, 2005
Ever since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, I've been playing pool. My dad introduced me to the wonderful world of pocket billiards, and I
took to it like a duck to water and never looked back. I have been playing professional pool my entire life, and at 48 years of age today, I have been around the world and competed in many tournaments.
Recently, I was chosen for an upcoming invitational 8-ball event. Though most of mainstream America plays 8-ball, the majority of competitions at the top level has been 9-ball. I hadn't thought there was much anybody could tell me about the game of 8-ball, as I play all games. I heard it through the pool grapevine that a couple of Hall of Famers were practicing, honing their skills set, and bought "Playing Your Best Eight Ball," by Phil Capelle.
Well, as the saying goes, you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but when I got my copy of this book, I couldn't set it down. It is not only full of tips of the trade which come up in all games, but I discovered an array of strategies which really helped me take my 8-ball game to a higher level. The pool diagrams are easy to follow, and there is an abundance of wisdom within the 456 pages. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, this book covers it all.
"Playing Your Best Eight Ball" is a must-read for players of all caliber, and I recommend this book highly. It is, without a doubt, simply the
best.
Keith McCready "Earthquake" (Washington, D.C.)
The best book on 8 Ball PERIOD!!!, August 27, 2010
Probably about 95% of people that play 8 Ball do not understand how to play the game. This book will show you. What the book does is change you way you think as you play the game....and that's powerful. If you're a league player...buy this book. If play serious 8 ball....buy this book. I buy 10-15 books a year and will only leave reviews on 1 or 2 of those books....this is one of them. Another worthy mention is the 8 Ball Bible. Might not go into quite the depth as Phil's book, but a good read and worth the money as well.
Matthew E. Uhrich
Ozone Billiards
Another great book by Phil Capelle!
This book will improve your 8-ball game if your a novice or an advanced player. The insight that this book provides is very valuable to improve all need shots for a proficient game of 8-ball. A MUST HAVE FOR ANY 8-BALL PLAYER!
Richie Rich – May 23, 2011
Great Book!
Definitely improved my awareness about the game of 8-ball. Good for all levels. I'm looking forward to making some 8-ball runs in the coming league season.
Greg – May 1, 2011
Lots of info!
This book leaves out a lot of the basics like grip, stroke and stance, which is great and focuses more on shotmaking and position. I am still
reading through this book, but so far it is excellent. I will be purchasing more of his books in the future.
Corey – Jan. 31, 2011
Must Read
Have read many books but was looking for more detail on eight ball and this is it. Tons of detail about the game and a must read if you want
to take your game to the next level.
John – Feb. 24, 2010
Book
Awesome book ,good $$. explanations are great with diagrams and all. The shots all work when practiced. It will make you a better
player.
Ray Halstead – Jan. 25, 2010
Best book on 8 ball EVER!
Best book for anyone playing 8 ball (which should be everyone).You will learn all the secrets, strategy, pattern play, defense, choosing the right group, and so much more.I just got this book and can\'t put it down. Most books waste WAY TOO MANY PAGES on stance, grip, aim, etc. This book gets right to the meat and potatoes of winning 8ball.This book is a must for all pool players!
Dan Werner – Oct. 1, 2008
Seybert’s
Great book to improve your 8 ball game
Excellent book to improve your 8 ball game. Book goes in depth about position routes, pattern play, safeties, and practice routines. Book also covers different skill levels of A, B, and C players and how to play a different skill than yourself. Only thing I wish the book showed more of was how he made the shot.
rrich1
play your best 8 ball
This is by far the best book on 8 ball on the market right now, Phil makes it so easy to understand pool and he shows you how easy it is to
improve your game. I bought this book a while back and together with my 314-2 shaft i am improving in my 8 ball game. This is a great book and i would recommend it to anyone who loves 8 ball the way i do.
pato4life
A good book if you really want to improve at eight ball
"Play Your Best Eight Ball" covers all aspects of the game: offense, defense, runout strategies, individual shots, you-name-it. The book is
so detailed, the way to approach it is to read a small section, practice that instruction on a pool table, then go back to the book. I noticed that some things immediately stuck permanently, but other pearls of wisdom had to be reviewed. So I often refer back to the book (which I highlighted liberally) to refresh my memory. A good investment for serious players, or beginners who want to improve.
Garybkatz
Easy read
I liked the book. Phil Capelle has such a great way of making the reading interesting. It's not just boring text. I think this book is more geared
for the league or local tournament play. It's a good read, worth the time.
BBBrock
Great book!, December 2, 2012
Good reading material regarding eight ball and other aspects which come Into play in all pool games. Great book, I recommend it to all.
Justin J. Greber
Buy this book, June 25, 2012
This book is one of many pool books I own. I take some useful info from each one to run more tables.Great addition to the library! I like this one best!
n8 the gr8
Simply the Best!, November 3, 2005
Ever since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, I've been playing pool. My dad introduced me to the wonderful world of pocket billiards, and I
took to it like a duck to water and never looked back. I have been playing professional pool my entire life, and at 48 years of age today, I have been around the world and competed in many tournaments.
Recently, I was chosen for an upcoming invitational 8-ball event. Though most of mainstream America plays 8-ball, the majority of competitions at the top level has been 9-ball. I hadn't thought there was much anybody could tell me about the game of 8-ball, as I play all games. I heard it through the pool grapevine that a couple of Hall of Famers were practicing, honing their skills set, and bought "Playing Your Best Eight Ball," by Phil Capelle.
Well, as the saying goes, you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but when I got my copy of this book, I couldn't set it down. It is not only full of tips of the trade which come up in all games, but I discovered an array of strategies which really helped me take my 8-ball game to a higher level. The pool diagrams are easy to follow, and there is an abundance of wisdom within the 456 pages. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced player, this book covers it all.
"Playing Your Best Eight Ball" is a must-read for players of all caliber, and I recommend this book highly. It is, without a doubt, simply the
best.
Keith McCready "Earthquake" (Washington, D.C.)
The best book on 8 Ball PERIOD!!!, August 27, 2010
Probably about 95% of people that play 8 Ball do not understand how to play the game. This book will show you. What the book does is change you way you think as you play the game....and that's powerful. If you're a league player...buy this book. If play serious 8 ball....buy this book. I buy 10-15 books a year and will only leave reviews on 1 or 2 of those books....this is one of them. Another worthy mention is the 8 Ball Bible. Might not go into quite the depth as Phil's book, but a good read and worth the money as well.
Matthew E. Uhrich
Ozone Billiards
Another great book by Phil Capelle!
This book will improve your 8-ball game if your a novice or an advanced player. The insight that this book provides is very valuable to improve all need shots for a proficient game of 8-ball. A MUST HAVE FOR ANY 8-BALL PLAYER!
Richie Rich – May 23, 2011
Great Book!
Definitely improved my awareness about the game of 8-ball. Good for all levels. I'm looking forward to making some 8-ball runs in the coming league season.
Greg – May 1, 2011
Lots of info!
This book leaves out a lot of the basics like grip, stroke and stance, which is great and focuses more on shotmaking and position. I am still
reading through this book, but so far it is excellent. I will be purchasing more of his books in the future.
Corey – Jan. 31, 2011
Must Read
Have read many books but was looking for more detail on eight ball and this is it. Tons of detail about the game and a must read if you want
to take your game to the next level.
John – Feb. 24, 2010
Book
Awesome book ,good $$. explanations are great with diagrams and all. The shots all work when practiced. It will make you a better
player.
Ray Halstead – Jan. 25, 2010
Best book on 8 ball EVER!
Best book for anyone playing 8 ball (which should be everyone).You will learn all the secrets, strategy, pattern play, defense, choosing the right group, and so much more.I just got this book and can\'t put it down. Most books waste WAY TOO MANY PAGES on stance, grip, aim, etc. This book gets right to the meat and potatoes of winning 8ball.This book is a must for all pool players!
Dan Werner – Oct. 1, 2008
Seybert’s
Great book to improve your 8 ball game
Excellent book to improve your 8 ball game. Book goes in depth about position routes, pattern play, safeties, and practice routines. Book also covers different skill levels of A, B, and C players and how to play a different skill than yourself. Only thing I wish the book showed more of was how he made the shot.
rrich1
play your best 8 ball
This is by far the best book on 8 ball on the market right now, Phil makes it so easy to understand pool and he shows you how easy it is to
improve your game. I bought this book a while back and together with my 314-2 shaft i am improving in my 8 ball game. This is a great book and i would recommend it to anyone who loves 8 ball the way i do.
pato4life
A good book if you really want to improve at eight ball
"Play Your Best Eight Ball" covers all aspects of the game: offense, defense, runout strategies, individual shots, you-name-it. The book is
so detailed, the way to approach it is to read a small section, practice that instruction on a pool table, then go back to the book. I noticed that some things immediately stuck permanently, but other pearls of wisdom had to be reviewed. So I often refer back to the book (which I highlighted liberally) to refresh my memory. A good investment for serious players, or beginners who want to improve.
Garybkatz
Easy read
I liked the book. Phil Capelle has such a great way of making the reading interesting. It's not just boring text. I think this book is more geared
for the league or local tournament play. It's a good read, worth the time.
BBBrock
Capelle's Practicing Pool
Amazon
good tool, August 23, 2012
Nice book for practicing. Most books just have a few drills. This is great if you have a table and want to get better not just hit some balls around.
Kyle Z
thumbs up, January 6, 2012
This book is amazing! Phil is such an amazing teacher. if you go threw this book slowly and do it step by step you really will improve at pool. i learned things that i have not found in the many other books I’ve bought. Its an A +!!
Dan
learning pool, December 31, 2011
I'm a novice and this particular product is slow at the beginning but once it gets going is very good. The routines are easy to set up and follow. I can see improvement on my game already.
Mr. D
Definitely a must have, December 7, 2011
After reading this book I am going to be buying more of Capelle's billiard books. Extremely well written. Opens like a binder style so the pages are easy to put on a table to practice. I would have to say that this is my favorite billiard book.
photobuff
I use this for practice every day., December 4, 2011
Along with Pool & Billiards for Dummies, I also purchased Capelle's Practicing Pool. I read the Dummies book first and am glad that I did.
It prepared me for Capelle's book which I am now working through. These two books have something that the other books I've tried do not, they are written with the beginner in mind but can be used by higher skilled players too. Often I've wasted my money buying a book that was recommended by other players who had a lot of experience while I've only been playing for about two years. When I bought those books, I soon hit a brick wall of frustration because the skill level needed to implement what those books were trying to teach was higher than the skill I had. Phil Capelle is a teacher of pool and billiards and approaches his writing in that manner. His practice sessions are understandable and the book begins at a lower skill level and works its way up as you progress. I am about a third of the way through his book and have been able to work on everything he has taught so far. It takes time and practice but I can work it out if I stick with it and that is a change from most of the other books I've used.
My game is improving and that is my reward. This is a book that is well worth buying if you are at my level of play, a person with two years experience but I can see how better players could use much of this book if they have gaps in their skills.
Jimmyecon
Capelle's Practicing Pool, February 15, 2011
Phil Capelle has written a very good guide to practicing pool. How to practice and the rationale behind the drills are clearly explained. There is a proper emphasis on the fundamentals, shotmaking and position, i.e., if your fundamentals are off - it's going to be tougher to make the shot. The diagrams are well done and the book is compact and convenient to use and carry to the pool hall. One minor drawback: It's a little wordy here and there. Sometimes three sentences would suffice instead of six. Good value for the price. This is an excellent companion for his classic Shoot (Play) Your Best Pool.
Robert G
Great guidance, February 7, 2011
I have spent a lot of money on pool lessons, books, videos and equipment and this ranks amongst the best value I've had. There are no tricks or short cuts to improve your pool game, however this book has optimized my practice time and helped me improve my game significantly. The main benefit I have received is a more structured approach to practice that incorporates maintenance of skills as well as development of skills. Highly recommended.
Chris Lewis
Perfect Practice Leads to Perfect Play, September 22, 2010
I try to improve. If I miss a critical shot, I later practice that until I have it down. This book teaches a structured practice routine that covers everything. I wish I had it years ago.
Smiling Granite
Great book, January 30, 2010
If your ready for the next level in pool, this is one of the books that should be in your library. If you have any questions about your Stroke, they are answered in this book.
Paszzz
The Pool Players 'Bible'?, August 29, 2008
Phil Capelle's book is an absolute must for anyone who wishes to take their game seriously and thus progress to the 'next level'. If you only buy one book then this has to be the one. It deals with mental approach as well as physical, both very important in becoming the complete player. Whatever level you aspire to there is something in this book for every pool player and concerning every game too. There is a full section on practice routines that would test anyone, yet it is done in an interesting way with clear, lucid explanations in great detail. Many books tend to gloss over important aspects of the game and its components. Phil Capelle's book explains it all in detail without ever being patronizing or 'elitist'. So, do yourself, and your game, a favor and make a wise investment in this book. If you dedicate yourself to its principles, you'll be very glad you did - and your opponents will be very sorry too! I only wish I had discovered this book years ago! Still, it's never too late.
Carolyn M. Carr
Very Good Resource for Pool Techniques, March 8, 2008
This book covers all aspects of the game and is very explaining the fundamentals of ball striking. It covers all the basic shots and some of the finer techniques used to wins pool matches. If you are looking for a good resource for taking your game up a level or two this book has the answers, all you have to do is practice.
Marty Beam
Ozone Billiards
Great learning tool
Great book for someone wanting to improve all aspects of your game. Super fast shipping that makes you ask yourself how they got the item to you so fast.
Brian from San Carlos, Ca on August 31, 2012
Good Book
This is a very detailed book and if you have the discipline to practice your game will continue to grow over and over. As I play game after
game I can see how I need to practice what they preach. This book is good no matter what you skill level.
Alan Schmidt from Michigan on August 7, 2012
Good Instruction Easy to Follow
Having problem with my back stroke to forward stroke .But now I can deliver it fluidly
arturo macaspac from virginia beach, virginia on May 17, 2012
Great Book
Very easy to follow along. some things refer back to other books, but you can still decipher what the author is trying to say.
john from elk mound, wi on March 19, 2012
Practicing Book
There is a lot of great information in this book.
Yang from Jacksonville, FL on February 16, 2012
All The Help I Need In One Book
I am consistently the worse player on my pool teams and just the first three exercises I am already improving, I can't wait to get further into
the book and improve even more
Kerri Letendre from Kimberly, Idaho on January 27, 2012
Great Book
This is a great pool book. it is very detailed. If you try to do all of the drills as thoroughly as he describes you are probably trying to be a professional player. This book is good for intermediate and advance players who already have a good understanding of the fundamentals of pool and don't need a book to explain the basic concepts. I like that about this book because most pool books spend half the book explaining what i already know. Great book and for 20 dollars its expert advice for much cheaper than lessons!
Dan from CA on December 3, 2011
A Great Tool
The intro is rather long, but the book helps you to focus and avoid wasting time.
Mike – Aug. 8, 2011
Great Practice Book To Build Confidence In All Your Shots!
This book is a very easy read. It has great practice drills to help fundamentals and more difficult shots. I would recommend this book for anyone who what's to better their game. It's a must have for any person with a drive to become better.
Richie Rich – May 23, 2011
Capelle’s Practicing Pool
The book has great ways for practicing with drills and tools to use to help you become a better player.
Larry – May 6, 2011
Great Reading
Very informative.
Edward – March 21, 2011
Strong Material
Best practice book available...i've been playing pool for years and own a good number of books and this one is one of the very best! the
explanations support the drills and diagrams very well. the fundamentals section alone is worth the price of the book!
Bob – Feb. 15, 2011
Awesome!!
Best book ever written for practicing pool. It keeps practice interesting, instead of boring. It is not a book w a bunch of boring drills. You
can use this to work on what YOU need to work on. Use it to eliminate your weak spots in your game and you can become a better all around player in no time. The end of the book has specific programs leading to the best pages. For example, "Shotmakers workout" or "50 Essentials". These are great for customizing practices to work on specifics. Be prepared to do the work though! One of the programs took me over a month to complete. Well worth the time and money spent. I have gone up 5 handicap points in the last four tournaments. Thank you Phil!!!
David – Oct. 7, 2010
Excellent Instruction
Capelle has great instructionals.
Dennis – May 22, 2010
Capelle’s Practicing Pool
Lots of info in this book. It requires a little time to get the abbreviations down , but there is much to learn from it . Newer players will receive lots of info to improve their game while better players may find some flaws in their game that they were overlooking.
Everett – April 28, 2010
Capelle’s Practicing Pool Review
Excellent Book. well written and covers a lot of practice sessions from fundamentals to advanced player. It has already improved my game,
by making me think more about the stock, speed and positioning requirements. Thanks Phil
Kenneth Burleigh – Dec. 22, 2009
Thinking
The book described different ways to think about how the game was played and it gave some good references to think about when u was
shooting
David – Oct. 28, 2009
Practicing Pool
For beginners, amateurs, and even some professionals, chapter 3 (Fundamentals First) is worth the price alone. It will take you from being
inconsistent to playing your top game every day. Phil Capelle goes over everything that could go wrong and provides multiples ways to do it. There are even sections that help your entire league team perform better. For people starting out, with the improvement you make, practicing pool becomes more fun than playing the game. For the more seasoned players, if there is a spot you feel needs fixing, this book will make it apparent. Even if you don\'t, some of the 50 main exercises Phil puts out will challenge the best of us and polish your game.
Chris Lu – March
19, 2009
Seybert’s
Best training book to date
I've had this book for years and I still take it out every few weeks to work on my basics and fundamentals. Phil Capelle's books are the best.
Every aspect of this book is well thought out including the book itself. Look at all of the other books and you will notice this one has spiral binding. You can actually lay this book out on the table and look at the diagrams while practicing. You can't say this about any other training book. If you like that aspect, then you'll really appreciate the diagrams and the way it is written. This book has helped me improve my game more than any book i've purchased and I have dozens.
Crackshot
A great addition to the library
This is a fantastic book on how to practice. There are a lot of things I had thought I already knew, but this book took those ideas and really
made them into something that was easy to consume and transform into my everyday practice routines. A great addition to any pool players library.
Yawger
A Must Have!!
This practice book will take you to the next level if followed. This is an excellent product to take on the go or have at your home table. The
best practice workout program on the market.
Twf314
good tool, August 23, 2012
Nice book for practicing. Most books just have a few drills. This is great if you have a table and want to get better not just hit some balls around.
Kyle Z
thumbs up, January 6, 2012
This book is amazing! Phil is such an amazing teacher. if you go threw this book slowly and do it step by step you really will improve at pool. i learned things that i have not found in the many other books I’ve bought. Its an A +!!
Dan
learning pool, December 31, 2011
I'm a novice and this particular product is slow at the beginning but once it gets going is very good. The routines are easy to set up and follow. I can see improvement on my game already.
Mr. D
Definitely a must have, December 7, 2011
After reading this book I am going to be buying more of Capelle's billiard books. Extremely well written. Opens like a binder style so the pages are easy to put on a table to practice. I would have to say that this is my favorite billiard book.
photobuff
I use this for practice every day., December 4, 2011
Along with Pool & Billiards for Dummies, I also purchased Capelle's Practicing Pool. I read the Dummies book first and am glad that I did.
It prepared me for Capelle's book which I am now working through. These two books have something that the other books I've tried do not, they are written with the beginner in mind but can be used by higher skilled players too. Often I've wasted my money buying a book that was recommended by other players who had a lot of experience while I've only been playing for about two years. When I bought those books, I soon hit a brick wall of frustration because the skill level needed to implement what those books were trying to teach was higher than the skill I had. Phil Capelle is a teacher of pool and billiards and approaches his writing in that manner. His practice sessions are understandable and the book begins at a lower skill level and works its way up as you progress. I am about a third of the way through his book and have been able to work on everything he has taught so far. It takes time and practice but I can work it out if I stick with it and that is a change from most of the other books I've used.
My game is improving and that is my reward. This is a book that is well worth buying if you are at my level of play, a person with two years experience but I can see how better players could use much of this book if they have gaps in their skills.
Jimmyecon
Capelle's Practicing Pool, February 15, 2011
Phil Capelle has written a very good guide to practicing pool. How to practice and the rationale behind the drills are clearly explained. There is a proper emphasis on the fundamentals, shotmaking and position, i.e., if your fundamentals are off - it's going to be tougher to make the shot. The diagrams are well done and the book is compact and convenient to use and carry to the pool hall. One minor drawback: It's a little wordy here and there. Sometimes three sentences would suffice instead of six. Good value for the price. This is an excellent companion for his classic Shoot (Play) Your Best Pool.
Robert G
Great guidance, February 7, 2011
I have spent a lot of money on pool lessons, books, videos and equipment and this ranks amongst the best value I've had. There are no tricks or short cuts to improve your pool game, however this book has optimized my practice time and helped me improve my game significantly. The main benefit I have received is a more structured approach to practice that incorporates maintenance of skills as well as development of skills. Highly recommended.
Chris Lewis
Perfect Practice Leads to Perfect Play, September 22, 2010
I try to improve. If I miss a critical shot, I later practice that until I have it down. This book teaches a structured practice routine that covers everything. I wish I had it years ago.
Smiling Granite
Great book, January 30, 2010
If your ready for the next level in pool, this is one of the books that should be in your library. If you have any questions about your Stroke, they are answered in this book.
Paszzz
The Pool Players 'Bible'?, August 29, 2008
Phil Capelle's book is an absolute must for anyone who wishes to take their game seriously and thus progress to the 'next level'. If you only buy one book then this has to be the one. It deals with mental approach as well as physical, both very important in becoming the complete player. Whatever level you aspire to there is something in this book for every pool player and concerning every game too. There is a full section on practice routines that would test anyone, yet it is done in an interesting way with clear, lucid explanations in great detail. Many books tend to gloss over important aspects of the game and its components. Phil Capelle's book explains it all in detail without ever being patronizing or 'elitist'. So, do yourself, and your game, a favor and make a wise investment in this book. If you dedicate yourself to its principles, you'll be very glad you did - and your opponents will be very sorry too! I only wish I had discovered this book years ago! Still, it's never too late.
Carolyn M. Carr
Very Good Resource for Pool Techniques, March 8, 2008
This book covers all aspects of the game and is very explaining the fundamentals of ball striking. It covers all the basic shots and some of the finer techniques used to wins pool matches. If you are looking for a good resource for taking your game up a level or two this book has the answers, all you have to do is practice.
Marty Beam
Ozone Billiards
Great learning tool
Great book for someone wanting to improve all aspects of your game. Super fast shipping that makes you ask yourself how they got the item to you so fast.
Brian from San Carlos, Ca on August 31, 2012
Good Book
This is a very detailed book and if you have the discipline to practice your game will continue to grow over and over. As I play game after
game I can see how I need to practice what they preach. This book is good no matter what you skill level.
Alan Schmidt from Michigan on August 7, 2012
Good Instruction Easy to Follow
Having problem with my back stroke to forward stroke .But now I can deliver it fluidly
arturo macaspac from virginia beach, virginia on May 17, 2012
Great Book
Very easy to follow along. some things refer back to other books, but you can still decipher what the author is trying to say.
john from elk mound, wi on March 19, 2012
Practicing Book
There is a lot of great information in this book.
Yang from Jacksonville, FL on February 16, 2012
All The Help I Need In One Book
I am consistently the worse player on my pool teams and just the first three exercises I am already improving, I can't wait to get further into
the book and improve even more
Kerri Letendre from Kimberly, Idaho on January 27, 2012
Great Book
This is a great pool book. it is very detailed. If you try to do all of the drills as thoroughly as he describes you are probably trying to be a professional player. This book is good for intermediate and advance players who already have a good understanding of the fundamentals of pool and don't need a book to explain the basic concepts. I like that about this book because most pool books spend half the book explaining what i already know. Great book and for 20 dollars its expert advice for much cheaper than lessons!
Dan from CA on December 3, 2011
A Great Tool
The intro is rather long, but the book helps you to focus and avoid wasting time.
Mike – Aug. 8, 2011
Great Practice Book To Build Confidence In All Your Shots!
This book is a very easy read. It has great practice drills to help fundamentals and more difficult shots. I would recommend this book for anyone who what's to better their game. It's a must have for any person with a drive to become better.
Richie Rich – May 23, 2011
Capelle’s Practicing Pool
The book has great ways for practicing with drills and tools to use to help you become a better player.
Larry – May 6, 2011
Great Reading
Very informative.
Edward – March 21, 2011
Strong Material
Best practice book available...i've been playing pool for years and own a good number of books and this one is one of the very best! the
explanations support the drills and diagrams very well. the fundamentals section alone is worth the price of the book!
Bob – Feb. 15, 2011
Awesome!!
Best book ever written for practicing pool. It keeps practice interesting, instead of boring. It is not a book w a bunch of boring drills. You
can use this to work on what YOU need to work on. Use it to eliminate your weak spots in your game and you can become a better all around player in no time. The end of the book has specific programs leading to the best pages. For example, "Shotmakers workout" or "50 Essentials". These are great for customizing practices to work on specifics. Be prepared to do the work though! One of the programs took me over a month to complete. Well worth the time and money spent. I have gone up 5 handicap points in the last four tournaments. Thank you Phil!!!
David – Oct. 7, 2010
Excellent Instruction
Capelle has great instructionals.
Dennis – May 22, 2010
Capelle’s Practicing Pool
Lots of info in this book. It requires a little time to get the abbreviations down , but there is much to learn from it . Newer players will receive lots of info to improve their game while better players may find some flaws in their game that they were overlooking.
Everett – April 28, 2010
Capelle’s Practicing Pool Review
Excellent Book. well written and covers a lot of practice sessions from fundamentals to advanced player. It has already improved my game,
by making me think more about the stock, speed and positioning requirements. Thanks Phil
Kenneth Burleigh – Dec. 22, 2009
Thinking
The book described different ways to think about how the game was played and it gave some good references to think about when u was
shooting
David – Oct. 28, 2009
Practicing Pool
For beginners, amateurs, and even some professionals, chapter 3 (Fundamentals First) is worth the price alone. It will take you from being
inconsistent to playing your top game every day. Phil Capelle goes over everything that could go wrong and provides multiples ways to do it. There are even sections that help your entire league team perform better. For people starting out, with the improvement you make, practicing pool becomes more fun than playing the game. For the more seasoned players, if there is a spot you feel needs fixing, this book will make it apparent. Even if you don\'t, some of the 50 main exercises Phil puts out will challenge the best of us and polish your game.
Chris Lu – March
19, 2009
Seybert’s
Best training book to date
I've had this book for years and I still take it out every few weeks to work on my basics and fundamentals. Phil Capelle's books are the best.
Every aspect of this book is well thought out including the book itself. Look at all of the other books and you will notice this one has spiral binding. You can actually lay this book out on the table and look at the diagrams while practicing. You can't say this about any other training book. If you like that aspect, then you'll really appreciate the diagrams and the way it is written. This book has helped me improve my game more than any book i've purchased and I have dozens.
Crackshot
A great addition to the library
This is a fantastic book on how to practice. There are a lot of things I had thought I already knew, but this book took those ideas and really
made them into something that was easy to consume and transform into my everyday practice routines. A great addition to any pool players library.
Yawger
A Must Have!!
This practice book will take you to the next level if followed. This is an excellent product to take on the go or have at your home table. The
best practice workout program on the market.
Twf314
A Mind For Pool
Amazon
Worth every penny, September 2, 2009
This book is indispensable if you are looking to improve your game. If I could only keep one book on the game of pool, this is the one I'd keep.
Butch Patchell
Pool book, January 12, 2009
Good book for those pool players who are looking to improve the game on the tactical and mental side.
Rafael Reyes
Great book, August 14, 2005
Any book from Phil Capelle on pool is a great book. Try "Play your best nine ball"
F. Flores "FF"
A mind for pool - and life, March 10, 2005
This is such a comprehensive book about the role of the mind in pool that much of its advice and lessons could be applied to any difficult
endeavor that involves significant behavior change. In other words, people could apply the knowledge imparted in this book to dieting, stopping smoking and so on. The information is so universal and valuable that it could help anyone - not just pool players.
With regard to pool, it would be hard to imagine another resource that is so comprehensive yet so readable and well-organized. I am just a beginner at pool yet this book offered me lots of tips and suggestions so that I learn the fundamentals as well as the many mental aspects of this great sport. I imagine that a seasoned player would get even more out of this book because of its emphasis of staying positive when competing. Just a great book - well worth the price.
kevin
putting things in perspective, February 4, 2003
a great analysis of the mental side of pool. Lots of information on the competitive side of pool: how to gear up, dealing with slumps and streaks, etc. Just as important, he emphasizes that pool should be enjoyable, whatever one's manner of enjoyment might be, from very leisurely to ultra-serious. To sum it up, "There is so much to love about pool that it is simply foolish to waste any time on the negatives." I have to second this; browsing this book a lot lately has made me want to play, learn and enjoy the game again, after several
months of hardly playing at all. Capelle certainly does not disappoint.
"mcdoog_99"
The first quantum leap in your game, August 2, 2001
I am a nearly everyday pool player. Pool is ground zero for me. I have lost and gained many relationships because of my passion. But, since I've only played seriously for a year, I still am a true student of the game. I examine each book and video I find thoroughly from cover to cover picking things out that are useful and skipping through the stuff I'm already familiar with. When I purchased this book I was very pleased to see no descriptions on stance, grip, or physical technique. Everything covered was completely mental. Having already participated in league play and tournament play, I was already quite aware of the triumphs and disappointments associated with winning and losing. But having those feelings brought to the surface and examined was a true revelation. Two months after completing the book I won the chance to compete in the Camel 8-Ball Singles Championship in Las Vegas. I took 9th in the nation, with much credit to this book. Losing in the second round, I was able to use the book's information to help come back strong all the way to my last match. And when I lost that last match for 9th place, I was able to recognize that I had done well, but that my mind in pool was still too immature to have done better without more 'luck'. Since then I have gone on to consistently beat my teachers and look for more challenging and experienced players and am more prepared now than ever to challenge them and learn from them.
If you are a true 'student of the game', then this book is a must have in learning how to be a better 'student'. Read it and you will realize your first quantum leap in your game and your life
"monroefreak"
Success At Last!, March 15, 2000
I've got an eye for detail and a "bod" for sin. Now, after reading this new book, I've got a mind for pool! I am truly on my way to mastering this game! See you on ESPN! Thanks, Phil!
Rocky Brown
Great book to learn about the 80% of pool you are ignoring, July 16, 1999
I've been playing for about 4 months and have really gotten into the game. I've bought a lot of books about how to "make this shot" or "what
strategy to use in a game of 9-ball" but I didn't have a book about the mental side of the game. I picked up this book to fill that gap.
I read it and found some useful ideas but was a little disappointed that I didn't find more. A week after buying the book I entered my first tournament at a local pool room. I didn't do as well as I would have liked but couldn't understand why. That night I went home and looked through this book again. Suddenly it was like a totally different book. After having played in the tournament I realized what this book really teaches you: How to think about pool and your playing. If you are into playing pool seriously, you need this book. A great addition to your shelf.
A Customer
Good for players wondering about their game & progress., June 5, 1999
We recently bought this book at the BCA North American Pool Tournament held in Las Vegas. It was actually sold out the second day there and we had to order it to be shipped to us. Received it just recently and it is so sensible and 'down to earth' in the approach of why things in pool happen. It is written in common language that all pool players hear and say. Simple and concise it approaches all problems connected to the game. Everyone gets in a slump now and then, it deals with that. It deals with playing on a team, playing in tournaments, playing for money or just for fun. In reading this, you discover you're not the only person who feels this way, or wonders about your game being stagnant or progressing. It deals with practice, patience and addresses the fact that if pool was as easy as it looks, we'd all be Allison Fischer! Great Book for anyone wanting to sharpen their game with mental as well as physical skills
That's why I'm ordering a second book, one for me and one for my husband.
[email protected]
Ozone Billiards
A MIND FOR POOL
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST BOOK ON THE MARKET. I READ THE BOOK 3XTIMES.
JOSEPH HART from ALEXANDRIA,VIRGINIA on December 29, 2011
Zero in
I bought this book hoping to improve my game.I took the advice of the writer and went to the table of contents to see which topic applied (instead of reading it from cover to cover) and found exactly what i needed. I play in a league and was having mental break downs, not closing. A couple paragraphs and some inspirational quotes and I haven't lost in two weeks.
James from ,Buffalo, NY on November 8, 2011
Fast service
great read help a lot
Scott from , on March 20, 2011
Excellent
A must read for those of us who have experienced the "wall" where we can't seem to get any better. This book puts it all into perspective. Read it cover to cover.
Richard on February 1, 2010
Good book
I haven't read the whole thing yet, but it does provide some good insight to those "d'oh" moments we all have once and a while.
Blake from Green Bay, Wisconsin on October 21, 2009
Great Book for the mental game
Best book ever to cover the mental aspects of the game. Most pros would agree that pool is 90% mental, so us amateurs should also look at ways to enhance this part of our game. Great book and I highly recommend it!
Dan Werner on July 8, 2009
Seybert’s
Great author as always
Capelle writes great pool instructional books. This one is no different. His other books do a great job of teaching but this one is different.
This book isn't one for the players looking to physically play better position or to master a jump shot. I would recommend this book for a high mid level player looking to conquer that mental game to reach pool playing excellence. You're not going to get much out of this book as far as instruction goes, however you might gain some insight. I couldn't quite give this book 5 stars because I think Capelle has written better. If anything I like to crack open this book from time to time to reiterate mental aspects of the game that I already know, but have problems remembering due to frustration. Overall, I would definitely have this book in my collection since it is the only book that is
dedicated to the mental game.
Crackshot
Very much needed book
If your struggling with the mental side of your game with inconsistency or the voices in your head this book will help you to deal with
them and work on having a strong mental approach to the game. A must have
tfw314
Worth every penny, September 2, 2009
This book is indispensable if you are looking to improve your game. If I could only keep one book on the game of pool, this is the one I'd keep.
Butch Patchell
Pool book, January 12, 2009
Good book for those pool players who are looking to improve the game on the tactical and mental side.
Rafael Reyes
Great book, August 14, 2005
Any book from Phil Capelle on pool is a great book. Try "Play your best nine ball"
F. Flores "FF"
A mind for pool - and life, March 10, 2005
This is such a comprehensive book about the role of the mind in pool that much of its advice and lessons could be applied to any difficult
endeavor that involves significant behavior change. In other words, people could apply the knowledge imparted in this book to dieting, stopping smoking and so on. The information is so universal and valuable that it could help anyone - not just pool players.
With regard to pool, it would be hard to imagine another resource that is so comprehensive yet so readable and well-organized. I am just a beginner at pool yet this book offered me lots of tips and suggestions so that I learn the fundamentals as well as the many mental aspects of this great sport. I imagine that a seasoned player would get even more out of this book because of its emphasis of staying positive when competing. Just a great book - well worth the price.
kevin
putting things in perspective, February 4, 2003
a great analysis of the mental side of pool. Lots of information on the competitive side of pool: how to gear up, dealing with slumps and streaks, etc. Just as important, he emphasizes that pool should be enjoyable, whatever one's manner of enjoyment might be, from very leisurely to ultra-serious. To sum it up, "There is so much to love about pool that it is simply foolish to waste any time on the negatives." I have to second this; browsing this book a lot lately has made me want to play, learn and enjoy the game again, after several
months of hardly playing at all. Capelle certainly does not disappoint.
"mcdoog_99"
The first quantum leap in your game, August 2, 2001
I am a nearly everyday pool player. Pool is ground zero for me. I have lost and gained many relationships because of my passion. But, since I've only played seriously for a year, I still am a true student of the game. I examine each book and video I find thoroughly from cover to cover picking things out that are useful and skipping through the stuff I'm already familiar with. When I purchased this book I was very pleased to see no descriptions on stance, grip, or physical technique. Everything covered was completely mental. Having already participated in league play and tournament play, I was already quite aware of the triumphs and disappointments associated with winning and losing. But having those feelings brought to the surface and examined was a true revelation. Two months after completing the book I won the chance to compete in the Camel 8-Ball Singles Championship in Las Vegas. I took 9th in the nation, with much credit to this book. Losing in the second round, I was able to use the book's information to help come back strong all the way to my last match. And when I lost that last match for 9th place, I was able to recognize that I had done well, but that my mind in pool was still too immature to have done better without more 'luck'. Since then I have gone on to consistently beat my teachers and look for more challenging and experienced players and am more prepared now than ever to challenge them and learn from them.
If you are a true 'student of the game', then this book is a must have in learning how to be a better 'student'. Read it and you will realize your first quantum leap in your game and your life
"monroefreak"
Success At Last!, March 15, 2000
I've got an eye for detail and a "bod" for sin. Now, after reading this new book, I've got a mind for pool! I am truly on my way to mastering this game! See you on ESPN! Thanks, Phil!
Rocky Brown
Great book to learn about the 80% of pool you are ignoring, July 16, 1999
I've been playing for about 4 months and have really gotten into the game. I've bought a lot of books about how to "make this shot" or "what
strategy to use in a game of 9-ball" but I didn't have a book about the mental side of the game. I picked up this book to fill that gap.
I read it and found some useful ideas but was a little disappointed that I didn't find more. A week after buying the book I entered my first tournament at a local pool room. I didn't do as well as I would have liked but couldn't understand why. That night I went home and looked through this book again. Suddenly it was like a totally different book. After having played in the tournament I realized what this book really teaches you: How to think about pool and your playing. If you are into playing pool seriously, you need this book. A great addition to your shelf.
A Customer
Good for players wondering about their game & progress., June 5, 1999
We recently bought this book at the BCA North American Pool Tournament held in Las Vegas. It was actually sold out the second day there and we had to order it to be shipped to us. Received it just recently and it is so sensible and 'down to earth' in the approach of why things in pool happen. It is written in common language that all pool players hear and say. Simple and concise it approaches all problems connected to the game. Everyone gets in a slump now and then, it deals with that. It deals with playing on a team, playing in tournaments, playing for money or just for fun. In reading this, you discover you're not the only person who feels this way, or wonders about your game being stagnant or progressing. It deals with practice, patience and addresses the fact that if pool was as easy as it looks, we'd all be Allison Fischer! Great Book for anyone wanting to sharpen their game with mental as well as physical skills
That's why I'm ordering a second book, one for me and one for my husband.
[email protected]
Ozone Billiards
A MIND FOR POOL
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST BOOK ON THE MARKET. I READ THE BOOK 3XTIMES.
JOSEPH HART from ALEXANDRIA,VIRGINIA on December 29, 2011
Zero in
I bought this book hoping to improve my game.I took the advice of the writer and went to the table of contents to see which topic applied (instead of reading it from cover to cover) and found exactly what i needed. I play in a league and was having mental break downs, not closing. A couple paragraphs and some inspirational quotes and I haven't lost in two weeks.
James from ,Buffalo, NY on November 8, 2011
Fast service
great read help a lot
Scott from , on March 20, 2011
Excellent
A must read for those of us who have experienced the "wall" where we can't seem to get any better. This book puts it all into perspective. Read it cover to cover.
Richard on February 1, 2010
Good book
I haven't read the whole thing yet, but it does provide some good insight to those "d'oh" moments we all have once and a while.
Blake from Green Bay, Wisconsin on October 21, 2009
Great Book for the mental game
Best book ever to cover the mental aspects of the game. Most pros would agree that pool is 90% mental, so us amateurs should also look at ways to enhance this part of our game. Great book and I highly recommend it!
Dan Werner on July 8, 2009
Seybert’s
Great author as always
Capelle writes great pool instructional books. This one is no different. His other books do a great job of teaching but this one is different.
This book isn't one for the players looking to physically play better position or to master a jump shot. I would recommend this book for a high mid level player looking to conquer that mental game to reach pool playing excellence. You're not going to get much out of this book as far as instruction goes, however you might gain some insight. I couldn't quite give this book 5 stars because I think Capelle has written better. If anything I like to crack open this book from time to time to reiterate mental aspects of the game that I already know, but have problems remembering due to frustration. Overall, I would definitely have this book in my collection since it is the only book that is
dedicated to the mental game.
Crackshot
Very much needed book
If your struggling with the mental side of your game with inconsistency or the voices in your head this book will help you to deal with
them and work on having a strong mental approach to the game. A must have
tfw314
Capelle on 9-Ball
Ozone Billiards
Awesome match - equally awesome book!
The match itself was a nail-biter right down to the wire. You could probably learn a thing or two just watching that part, but what you'll learn later is invaluable. As always, Mr. Capelle does a fantastic job at explaining the things you can see in the match and several things you may have overlooked. Great book/video combo - excellent learning experience. I would recommend this to anyone!!
Alan from Las Vegas, NV on December 24, 2011
Capelle on 9 Ball- Archer vs Reyes Book DVD Combo
One of the best hill-hill 9 ball matches you will ever see. This DVD is recommend to every serious pool player. Capelle's analysis of the match is very informative.
Ben from , Castro Valley, California on February 13, 2012
Awesome match - equally awesome book!
The match itself was a nail-biter right down to the wire. You could probably learn a thing or two just watching that part, but what you'll learn later is invaluable. As always, Mr. Capelle does a fantastic job at explaining the things you can see in the match and several things you may have overlooked. Great book/video combo - excellent learning experience. I would recommend this to anyone!!
Alan from Las Vegas, NV on December 24, 2011
Capelle on 9 Ball- Archer vs Reyes Book DVD Combo
One of the best hill-hill 9 ball matches you will ever see. This DVD is recommend to every serious pool player. Capelle's analysis of the match is very informative.
Ben from , Castro Valley, California on February 13, 2012
Break Shot Patterns
Ozone Billiards
Good instruction
The book presents a system for end-of-rack planning that I found very helpful. The dvd is also great as you see the planned sequences being executed. If getting a break shot has seemed to be a mystery, this book will help.
John – Dec. 13, 2011 5*
Break Shot Patterns Book and DVD by Phil Capelle
Great book & dvd for anyone that wants to learn more about straight pool.
Ben Yep – Dec. 8, 2011 4*
Good quality book and DVD
The DVD is good quality and good commentary, the book is of good quality as well and seems to show just about every pattern available. I purchased this by mistake and they graciously accepted my return but now that I've learned the game of 14.1 I almost wished I would have kept it!
Keith from Lincoln, on November 17, 2011 5*
Good instruction
The book presents a system for end-of-rack planning that I found very helpful. The dvd is also great as you see the planned sequences being executed. If getting a break shot has seemed to be a mystery, this book will help.
John – Dec. 13, 2011 5*
Break Shot Patterns Book and DVD by Phil Capelle
Great book & dvd for anyone that wants to learn more about straight pool.
Ben Yep – Dec. 8, 2011 4*
Good quality book and DVD
The DVD is good quality and good commentary, the book is of good quality as well and seems to show just about every pattern available. I purchased this by mistake and they graciously accepted my return but now that I've learned the game of 14.1 I almost wished I would have kept it!
Keith from Lincoln, on November 17, 2011 5*
Mike Massey's World of Trick Shots
Amazon
Mike Massey's world of trick shots, January 18, 2007
I bought this book for my boyfriend for Christmas. He loves it and uses it everyday when he gets a chance to learn all the tricks. It was one of his greatest present. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to learn trick shots.
J. Treese "book lover 03"
Very Cool!, January 11, 2007
Mike Massey is awesome. My boyfriend and I enjoy learning trick shots and who better to learn from than Mike Massey! Ladies...if you want to spend time with your guy and he likes pool...this is the book for you! Or if you want to show off at a pool hall or in front of your man this book will help!
L. Boggs
A must for any player at any level, February 12, 2011
Everyone loves a great trick shot on the tables. From very simple to very complex, this book will show you tricks that will amaze you. With a
little practice, I have won a number of silly bets that, well, didn't make me any money, but I have earned numerous free drinks.
Buy the book.....you won't regret it!
justcuz46
Ozone Billiards
A lot of fun in one book !!!
As in other instructional books, I found one golden nugget of knowledge I hadn't found in any other book. Practicing some of these trick shots has helped improve my game!
Marvin from Terre Haute, IN on May 15, 2011
Great Book
Very easy to read and understand.Mike's exhibition has always been fun to watch in person. I've seen him many times, and now I have his
book.
Dave from Beloit WI on April 8, 2011
masters
very good
Riyan on August 22, 2009
Seybert’s
Mike Massey's World of Trick Shots
I had the opportunity to meet and even play Mr. Massey at the local pool hall when he did a trick shot exhibition. He set up the butterfly
shot for me to shoot, and I got all 6 of them my first try! He had copies of his book for spectators to purchase, and of course, he was happy to sign everyone's books- Jesus Loves us, your friend, Mike Massey. I studied the book to a T, and depending on the table, execution of the trick shots usually goes off without a hitch. Even when I miss a few balls, any spectators and friends watching, are still impressed, and often want to try the various trick shots themselves. But my favorite part of the book is Mike's bibliography (or as he calls it, his pool-ogrpahy) in the back of the book. Reading about his personal life, and how he came to be the man he is today, is fascinating, and inspiring, not just in pool, but in everyday life. Phil Capelle's book is easy to read and understand, and his illustrations on setting up all the trick shots are clear and precise. I let close friends borrow the book, not only for their own trick shot amusement and knowledge, but so they have a chance to know Mike Massey, who I had the pleasure of meeting twice!
justok@pool
Mike Massey's world of trick shots, January 18, 2007
I bought this book for my boyfriend for Christmas. He loves it and uses it everyday when he gets a chance to learn all the tricks. It was one of his greatest present. I would recommend this to anyone who wants to learn trick shots.
J. Treese "book lover 03"
Very Cool!, January 11, 2007
Mike Massey is awesome. My boyfriend and I enjoy learning trick shots and who better to learn from than Mike Massey! Ladies...if you want to spend time with your guy and he likes pool...this is the book for you! Or if you want to show off at a pool hall or in front of your man this book will help!
L. Boggs
A must for any player at any level, February 12, 2011
Everyone loves a great trick shot on the tables. From very simple to very complex, this book will show you tricks that will amaze you. With a
little practice, I have won a number of silly bets that, well, didn't make me any money, but I have earned numerous free drinks.
Buy the book.....you won't regret it!
justcuz46
Ozone Billiards
A lot of fun in one book !!!
As in other instructional books, I found one golden nugget of knowledge I hadn't found in any other book. Practicing some of these trick shots has helped improve my game!
Marvin from Terre Haute, IN on May 15, 2011
Great Book
Very easy to read and understand.Mike's exhibition has always been fun to watch in person. I've seen him many times, and now I have his
book.
Dave from Beloit WI on April 8, 2011
masters
very good
Riyan on August 22, 2009
Seybert’s
Mike Massey's World of Trick Shots
I had the opportunity to meet and even play Mr. Massey at the local pool hall when he did a trick shot exhibition. He set up the butterfly
shot for me to shoot, and I got all 6 of them my first try! He had copies of his book for spectators to purchase, and of course, he was happy to sign everyone's books- Jesus Loves us, your friend, Mike Massey. I studied the book to a T, and depending on the table, execution of the trick shots usually goes off without a hitch. Even when I miss a few balls, any spectators and friends watching, are still impressed, and often want to try the various trick shots themselves. But my favorite part of the book is Mike's bibliography (or as he calls it, his pool-ogrpahy) in the back of the book. Reading about his personal life, and how he came to be the man he is today, is fascinating, and inspiring, not just in pool, but in everyday life. Phil Capelle's book is easy to read and understand, and his illustrations on setting up all the trick shots are clear and precise. I let close friends borrow the book, not only for their own trick shot amusement and knowledge, but so they have a chance to know Mike Massey, who I had the pleasure of meeting twice!
justok@pool
Facebook and Emails – a sampling
Thanks for sharing. Also, thanks for your books. I read them over and over again!
Allan Wier II
I just purchased one of his books from Melinda Bailey and I will have to say I have just read one chapter and it already has me walking to the table with a different mentality.
Angelina Dean
Phil just want to say your books have been a huge part of my game thank you.
Anthony DiSegna
I just wanted to say thanks! i have been playing billiards for about thirteen years now and credit a lot of my success to information i have
learned from reading your books
Benny Jamison
Your book a mind for pool was such a great help for me and my game
AND ...
I want to thank you for all of pool & billiards book you have wrote. They have been a great help.
Brian E B Roberts
Hi, Phil I ve send you a request. Could you add me to your list. I am a big fan of your books their changed my whole game. Thank you.
Chang Woo Hyun
Yes, I love your books!
Chris Shrum Rudolph
I am a big fan of your books. I have been working through the straight pool book currently. I hope to run a real number one of these days. I
run a lot 20 something or less big on the or less. My hi run is currently 37. I hope you keep writing I think you are a great writer and Ilearned alot.
Dana Stephenson – Indianapolis
I've read and recommend your books, most recently took along the Straight Pool end pattern DVD to a class and showed some excerpts, telling people to consider the book and try to master all the end patterns therein, before I showed them some more general end pattern drills.
David Plattner
I just wanted to say thank you for indirectly helping me improve the game I'm playing. I'm using your book Phil Capelle's Practicing Pool and I think it's incredible. I'm in the early stages of the book, and yet, I noticed a big improve. Thanks for that and cheers from Macedonia
Dimitar Gjorgjievski
Hi Phil, just wanted to tell you how much I like your "Play Your Best Pool" book! It is awesome and I have learned so much from it. I recently got back to playing and am re-reading your book from the beginning. Thanks again so much!
Eddie Robeson
"Your books have been a great influence on poolplayers everywhere!"
Eric S. Townsend
Although I will never be the pro I had always dreamed of being, your books have always helped my game. Even if I would forever shoot pool in my fuzzy slippers at home in my pool room, you do help me shoot my 'best pool'. Can't wait for the next book. Take care,
Felisa Bernard
Your book – the secrets to winning 8 and 9 ball have been a big help to me.
George Layton
I like ur work ur a thinker and that’s what it takes to win
Greg Hogue
Your books are amazing!!! I just love Play your best 9 Ball. Thank you,
Jerry de Zoete
Thank you. I bought Play Your Best Pool years ago and I still reference it to this day. It's a great resource for beginners and advanced
players alike. When I first started trying to improve my game I took it to the pool hall everyday and just did drills for hours. Great stuff. I owe a good portion of my progress to you. Thanks.
Jesse Martin
Read all of your books, you even autographed one for me in vegas, they helped me out a lot.
Jim Radisic
I absolutely love everything you have written. Your books have helped me learn how to play pool. I always refer to them. I hope everything is
going well. Thanks again for everything. Cheers!
John Ramos
I am still gaining a lot from the book itself, and was recently able to defeat the player who is currently in first place in our division in my Straight Pool league! I have a long way to go, but thanks to your book I am making large strides.
AND ...
I am really liking the Practicing Pool book, and it is already paying dividends! I have been working on several of the drills in the book, and my confidence on a given shot is a lot higher than it used to be. Not only that, but I have won my last two straight pool matches, both against players who beat me earlier in the season!
Jonathan Meltzer
Thanks for this. A buddy and I are working through several of your books now; the spiral-bound drill book is great.
Joshua Benjamin
thanks for the add love all your books !!
Keith Mann
Thank you for writing " A Mind For Pool". Has helped my game so much to improve the mental side of it.
Kelly Robert Ashe
Phil, I think I've read nearly all of your books. I must have poured over "Play Your Best Pool" and "Play Your Best 9 Ball" every day for years!! You helped take me from a total novice to a low A player. Thanks for your contributions to pool!!
Kerry McAuliffe
I just want to say that your book Play Your Best 9Ball has helped me tremendously with my game. Whenever I get in a slump, which is quite a bit, I go and read that book and it helps me get back on track. I just want to say thank you for writing such quality work. Have a good day.
Michael Waldren
Hi Phil, recently read some of your "play your best 8 ball". It's definitely helping my game. Great book!
Patrick Swisher – Facebook message
Hi Philip my name is Richard. i am a student of the games of 8 ball and 9 ball. I have three of your books which i think are very good. the one i like the most is a mind for pool. anyway i just wanted to say hi and keep up the good work
Richard Saunders
I just wanted to say thank you for writing such great books on pool. I love the sport and I study it - my passion and your books have helped
elevate my game to being one of the top players in my local league and to get respect from everyone in the league. The Play your best series is great. I have learned a lot from the Play Your Best Straight Pool. Are you going to write any more books in this series on other games: bank pool, one pocket or rotation? Keep up the great work
Richard Wojnaowski from Atlanta GA
It seemed like blockbuster after blockbuster of a match at the U.S. Open 9 ball event this year. I recently took lessons from Tom Simpson and Mark Finkelstein. They both highly recommend your work. Now I have 3 of your books (Mind,9-ball,Practice) and am currently studying 9 ball. It amazes me how you found time to educate yourself so well on these pool games and also educated yourself with a college degree earlier in your life. I applaud all of your hard work, wow.
AND ...
Phil, your work is unparalleled.
Rick McLane
"I’m also a pool player from Trinidad & Tobago. I recently bought your book "Play your best 8 ball", it's really well put together and a must have 4 any pool player, thanks again."
Rishi Sampath
Hi Phil, just wanted to let you know that I love your new book. Thanks for taking the time to write it and put the DVD together.
Rufus Carter
"Just got a copy of play your best 8 ball for my birthday today..definitely the best gift I have gotten in a long time! Cheers for a job well done!"
Rusty Williams
I have " play your best 8 ball" and "play your best 9 ball", they are some of the best books on the subject that I have come across. I like the way you write, informative ,instructional, but most of all accessible. thanks for being such a good teacher
Jude Sequeira
Shane wrote: "hey philip, im shane little from tennesee, and would like to thank you for your continued support and contribution to our sport. you’ve helped my game improve a lot so keep them coming. i recommend your books anytime someone asks for lessons etc."
Shane Little
i just wanted to say your books are the best i have ever read on pool. thanks for a great product. i went from running out the rack and then messing up the break ball to running three to four racks at a time thanks for you insight on straight pool i got all of your books so far.
Todd Crans
Break Shot Patterns
Phil. I keep going back to your book and DVD. It's so helpful for my straight pool.
Jack Loguidice
Reading Phil's New 14.1 Book.... Awesome!!
Gail Glazebrook
Yup...started reading it too. Great for pattern play regardless of what game you play.
Michael Harrington
I'm looking forward to it (BSP). If it's anything like your other work, it will be awesome!
Gerda Hofstatter
Phil's books are always worth the money.
Stuart J. Mantana
Thanks for sharing. Also, thanks for your books. I read them over and over again!
Allan Wier II
I just purchased one of his books from Melinda Bailey and I will have to say I have just read one chapter and it already has me walking to the table with a different mentality.
Angelina Dean
Phil just want to say your books have been a huge part of my game thank you.
Anthony DiSegna
I just wanted to say thanks! i have been playing billiards for about thirteen years now and credit a lot of my success to information i have
learned from reading your books
Benny Jamison
Your book a mind for pool was such a great help for me and my game
AND ...
I want to thank you for all of pool & billiards book you have wrote. They have been a great help.
Brian E B Roberts
Hi, Phil I ve send you a request. Could you add me to your list. I am a big fan of your books their changed my whole game. Thank you.
Chang Woo Hyun
Yes, I love your books!
Chris Shrum Rudolph
I am a big fan of your books. I have been working through the straight pool book currently. I hope to run a real number one of these days. I
run a lot 20 something or less big on the or less. My hi run is currently 37. I hope you keep writing I think you are a great writer and Ilearned alot.
Dana Stephenson – Indianapolis
I've read and recommend your books, most recently took along the Straight Pool end pattern DVD to a class and showed some excerpts, telling people to consider the book and try to master all the end patterns therein, before I showed them some more general end pattern drills.
David Plattner
I just wanted to say thank you for indirectly helping me improve the game I'm playing. I'm using your book Phil Capelle's Practicing Pool and I think it's incredible. I'm in the early stages of the book, and yet, I noticed a big improve. Thanks for that and cheers from Macedonia
Dimitar Gjorgjievski
Hi Phil, just wanted to tell you how much I like your "Play Your Best Pool" book! It is awesome and I have learned so much from it. I recently got back to playing and am re-reading your book from the beginning. Thanks again so much!
Eddie Robeson
"Your books have been a great influence on poolplayers everywhere!"
Eric S. Townsend
Although I will never be the pro I had always dreamed of being, your books have always helped my game. Even if I would forever shoot pool in my fuzzy slippers at home in my pool room, you do help me shoot my 'best pool'. Can't wait for the next book. Take care,
Felisa Bernard
Your book – the secrets to winning 8 and 9 ball have been a big help to me.
George Layton
I like ur work ur a thinker and that’s what it takes to win
Greg Hogue
Your books are amazing!!! I just love Play your best 9 Ball. Thank you,
Jerry de Zoete
Thank you. I bought Play Your Best Pool years ago and I still reference it to this day. It's a great resource for beginners and advanced
players alike. When I first started trying to improve my game I took it to the pool hall everyday and just did drills for hours. Great stuff. I owe a good portion of my progress to you. Thanks.
Jesse Martin
Read all of your books, you even autographed one for me in vegas, they helped me out a lot.
Jim Radisic
I absolutely love everything you have written. Your books have helped me learn how to play pool. I always refer to them. I hope everything is
going well. Thanks again for everything. Cheers!
John Ramos
I am still gaining a lot from the book itself, and was recently able to defeat the player who is currently in first place in our division in my Straight Pool league! I have a long way to go, but thanks to your book I am making large strides.
AND ...
I am really liking the Practicing Pool book, and it is already paying dividends! I have been working on several of the drills in the book, and my confidence on a given shot is a lot higher than it used to be. Not only that, but I have won my last two straight pool matches, both against players who beat me earlier in the season!
Jonathan Meltzer
Thanks for this. A buddy and I are working through several of your books now; the spiral-bound drill book is great.
Joshua Benjamin
thanks for the add love all your books !!
Keith Mann
Thank you for writing " A Mind For Pool". Has helped my game so much to improve the mental side of it.
Kelly Robert Ashe
Phil, I think I've read nearly all of your books. I must have poured over "Play Your Best Pool" and "Play Your Best 9 Ball" every day for years!! You helped take me from a total novice to a low A player. Thanks for your contributions to pool!!
Kerry McAuliffe
I just want to say that your book Play Your Best 9Ball has helped me tremendously with my game. Whenever I get in a slump, which is quite a bit, I go and read that book and it helps me get back on track. I just want to say thank you for writing such quality work. Have a good day.
Michael Waldren
Hi Phil, recently read some of your "play your best 8 ball". It's definitely helping my game. Great book!
Patrick Swisher – Facebook message
Hi Philip my name is Richard. i am a student of the games of 8 ball and 9 ball. I have three of your books which i think are very good. the one i like the most is a mind for pool. anyway i just wanted to say hi and keep up the good work
Richard Saunders
I just wanted to say thank you for writing such great books on pool. I love the sport and I study it - my passion and your books have helped
elevate my game to being one of the top players in my local league and to get respect from everyone in the league. The Play your best series is great. I have learned a lot from the Play Your Best Straight Pool. Are you going to write any more books in this series on other games: bank pool, one pocket or rotation? Keep up the great work
Richard Wojnaowski from Atlanta GA
It seemed like blockbuster after blockbuster of a match at the U.S. Open 9 ball event this year. I recently took lessons from Tom Simpson and Mark Finkelstein. They both highly recommend your work. Now I have 3 of your books (Mind,9-ball,Practice) and am currently studying 9 ball. It amazes me how you found time to educate yourself so well on these pool games and also educated yourself with a college degree earlier in your life. I applaud all of your hard work, wow.
AND ...
Phil, your work is unparalleled.
Rick McLane
"I’m also a pool player from Trinidad & Tobago. I recently bought your book "Play your best 8 ball", it's really well put together and a must have 4 any pool player, thanks again."
Rishi Sampath
Hi Phil, just wanted to let you know that I love your new book. Thanks for taking the time to write it and put the DVD together.
Rufus Carter
"Just got a copy of play your best 8 ball for my birthday today..definitely the best gift I have gotten in a long time! Cheers for a job well done!"
Rusty Williams
I have " play your best 8 ball" and "play your best 9 ball", they are some of the best books on the subject that I have come across. I like the way you write, informative ,instructional, but most of all accessible. thanks for being such a good teacher
Jude Sequeira
Shane wrote: "hey philip, im shane little from tennesee, and would like to thank you for your continued support and contribution to our sport. you’ve helped my game improve a lot so keep them coming. i recommend your books anytime someone asks for lessons etc."
Shane Little
i just wanted to say your books are the best i have ever read on pool. thanks for a great product. i went from running out the rack and then messing up the break ball to running three to four racks at a time thanks for you insight on straight pool i got all of your books so far.
Todd Crans
Break Shot Patterns
Phil. I keep going back to your book and DVD. It's so helpful for my straight pool.
Jack Loguidice
Reading Phil's New 14.1 Book.... Awesome!!
Gail Glazebrook
Yup...started reading it too. Great for pattern play regardless of what game you play.
Michael Harrington
I'm looking forward to it (BSP). If it's anything like your other work, it will be awesome!
Gerda Hofstatter
Phil's books are always worth the money.
Stuart J. Mantana
