Almost Everything You Wanted to Know about Pickleball but Were Afraid to Ask - by Karen Strine (Paperback)

About the Book

Ready to join the Pickleball craze, the wildly addictive sport that is taking over the USA and world? Karen Strine, a confessed Pickleball junkie, invites you to explore the history of the sport and its hilarious effects on players' lives.

Book Synopsis

Are you ready to join the Pickleball craze, the wildly addictive racket (or paddle) sport that is taking over the USA and the world? Author Karen Strine, a confessed Pickleball junkie, invites you to explore the history of the sport and its hilarious effects on players' lives. You'll discover how Pickleball was born out of a rainy day boredom and how it can turn mild-mannered people into fierce competitors, with sometimes comical results. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, you'll enjoy this witty and informative guide to the sport that is changing lives one paddle at a time...

As you enjoy this book please keep in mind the following from the Author:

WARNING: "Nothing in this book is professional pickleball advice. Don't try anything suggested here at home without a responsible adult present!" - She means it!

"This book is mostly intended for fun. It offers some tips on how to get started playing. There's also a plethora of pickleball 'cult information' for all you diehards who are obsessed with the game and just can't get enough of all things pickleball.

"Also, beware of the addictive quality of the sport. It can happen to anyone! After Phil Mickelson invited Doug Ellin to play, he later stated, "One of the great regrets of my life," Ellin says, "is that I didn't find this sport earlier. I literally want every person in the world to play this game." You will view life as life before pickleball (LBP) and life after pickleball (LAP).

"As you read through the book, if you find a pickleball term you don't understand, check out the appendices at the back for simple (and silly) clarifications of pickleball terminology.

"Now that I've explained all that, I wish you happy reading, and hope that you enjoy this book about pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the country and world! And remember, you might be playing with or against the doctor who read your mammogram or performed your prostate exam, or your hairdresser on a bad hair day. But you'll have fun!

"An openhanded portion of proceeds (from sales of this book) will be donated to pickleball charities."

Review Quotes

"I have the distinct pleasure of recommending this book by Karen Strine! It is a wonderful compilation of facts, history, and anecdotes about the wildly popular sport of Pickleball. The book will appeal to experienced players, as well as those just beginning to learn the joys of the game. One is sure to learn something new and be amused at the same time. Like the game itself, it is highly entertaining - humorous, well-researched, and documented, and just a great read. I love this book!"

- Barbara Johnson, USA Pickleball Ambassador,

District Ambassador, MD East

"While I am not a pickleball player (yes, there are a few of us) I thoroughly enjoyed Almost Everything You Want to Know About Pickleball But Were Afraid to Ask. It gave me an informative overview of the sport so I can hold a conversation with those who play (and can talk about nothing else). The personal stories are endearing. You can feel their passion for the sport that enabled them to overcome personal tragedies. I encourage you to read this most entertaining book."

- Brenda Neff

"This book is 'intended for fun' and it achieves that! Like the game itself, the book doesn't take itself too seriously but provides joy and entertainment in an easy-to-read style.

"Many readers will also be new pickleball players and they will appreciate the addictive nature of the sport. Strine recounts some of its history, starting with three dads who needed to entertain their kids, and explores the explosive growth of the sport today. Along the way, she provides 'Pickleball Story' anecdotes about chivalry, love, and some serious competition.

"When you can't be out playing on the local court, now you can at least be reading about your new obsession!"

- Jim Lertola Novice Pickleballer

"This book is a delightful piece of work full of information you probably didn't know. It's an easy read with all kinds of fun tidbits you can share with friends. Karen Strine speaks from the heart and it shows in this fun-filled little book that is factual, yet humorous. Filled with numerous cute anecdotal stories, you'll find yourself smiling as you read along, whether you are a weekend warrior, casual fan, or full-on pickleball fanatic like me."

- Daniel J Howard, Pickleball Addict,

Coach, Clinician, and Mental Game Coaching Expert.

Gold Medal 5.0 winner at the US Open in 2016