The Duffer’s Literary Companion

Jake Hartsell, age 33 - son, friend, golfer and musician - passed away in an inexplicable and tragic accident on September 26.  The podcast will be on hiatus indefinitely. We wanted to repost Jake's visit with TDLC in May 2025 where he discussed his love of Scottish golf, its stunning countryside, its people and its wonderful culture. Jake was beloved by his many friends he made in Scotland and through the music scene in north Alabama. If you wish to donate in Jake's memory, search for Jake Hartsell at gofundme.com

Stephen and Jim discuss English author Richard Pennell's newest book, Common Grounds. They are joined by the author from his home near Woking GC.

Stephen and Jim discuss the 1991 collection of essays from the wonderful English golf writer Peter Dobereiner

Stephen and Jim discuss what many consider to be the definitive Hogan biography. This is the 30th anniversary of the book's publication.

Stephen and Jim are joined by author Bill Fields to discuss his new memoir, A Quck Nine Before Dark, which details a 40 year career in golf photography and writing with Golf World, Golf Illustrated, and others.

Stephen and Jim discuss one of their all-time favorite books, Scottish Golf & Golffers by the great Glasgow Herald writer Sam McKinlay. This is a collection of his columns for the paper from 1956-1980. A true classic.

Stephen and Jim discuss Herbert Warren Wind's collection of essays on The Masters from 1954 to 1989.

Stephen and Jim discuss the influential 1951 classic, A Round of Golf Courses, by the English poet and author, Patric Dickinson.  In this book, Dickinson writes about the 18 "best" courses in Great Britain. This volume is the inspiration for A Round of Scotttish Courses, Jim's new book from back9press.com.

Stephen and Jim discuss The Ambassador from Back Nine Press - the story of  Alexander Findlay, one of the forgotten fathers of American golf. They are joined by author William Casto.

Stephen and Jim discuss the classic golf and architecture manifesto written by the Good Doctor in 1933 and published over 60 years after his death in 1995, after being discovered hidden in an old desk drawer.