Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America and whether you just picked up a paddle or you are chasing better dinks and drives, the right book helps. These five pickleball books cover it all, from a friendly beginner's introduction to the official rules to real on-court strategy, plus one pure celebration of the pickleball life. Read up, then get back on the court.
Quick picks:
- Best for beginners: Pickleball for All by Rachel Simon. View on Amazon
- Best for strategy: Smart Pickleball by Prem Carnot. View on Amazon
- Best gift: Pickleball Is Life by Erin McHugh. View on Amazon
Learn the game
Pickleball for All by Rachel Simon
Rachel Simon is a journalist and player. A warm, beginner-friendly guide to the fastest-growing sport in America, covering rules, gear and getting started. The ideal first book.
Best for: Pickleball beginners.
→ View on AmazonPickleball Fundamentals by USA Pickleball
USA Pickleball is the sport's official governing body. The official fundamentals guide from USA Pickleball, the authoritative reference on rules and technique. Straight from the source.
Best for: The official reference.
→ View on AmazonThe Art of Pickleball by Gale Leach
Gale Leach is an experienced player and instructor. A clear guide to strategy and technique for players ready to improve beyond the basics. Practical and well-organized.
Best for: Improving your game.
→ View on AmazonPlay smarter and celebrate it
Smart Pickleball by Prem Carnot
Prem Carnot is a coach and strategist. A strategy-focused guide to outthinking your opponents, popular with players who want to win more, not just rally more.
Best for: Pickleball strategy.
→ View on AmazonPickleball Is Life by Erin McHugh
Erin McHugh is a writer and enthusiast. A joyful celebration of pickleball culture and community, perfect as a gift for the obsessed player in your life.
Best for: The giftable celebration.
→ View on AmazonHow we chose these
We looked for the sports books that last: player memoirs with something real to say, credentialed sports scientists and psychologists and the acclaimed journalists and historians who turn a game into a story. A few iconic novels earn a place too and we label them as fiction. We describe and compare these books to help you choose your next read.
