Book Review: The Spirit of St Andrews

In a nutshell, it's a love letter to golf and a celebration of its history.

I’m typing this as I fly from JFK to EDI, and as I mentally prepare for my round at the Old Course in St Andrews on Wednesday. WHAT! 

I’ve played the course once (back in 2017), but I’m borderline obsessed with it. I’ve read “The Spirit of St Andrews” twice now, and I brought it with me so that I could read it again.

In short, “The Spirit of St Andrews,” written by Dr. Alister MacKenzie, is a must-read for golf enthusiasts. St Andrews is more than just a location, it’s a living museum where every blade of grass whispers a legendary tale. Situated on the east coast of Scotland, the entire town has been intertwined with the history of golf since the 15th century. Its Old Course is the most revered of all golf courses, a place where tradition and innovation have always walked hand in hand.

Since Mackenzie writes this book in a fun, engaging way, I figure I’d summarize it in a fun, engaging way. So I’ll imagine how a conversation might unfold if I ever sit down with a friend after a round of…