Books That Made a Difference In My Game

These are the books that have shaped how I approach both pool and personal growth. Whether you're looking to sharpen your focus at the table or expand your mindset in everyday life, these reads are game-changers.

Pleasure of Small Motions by Bob Fancher

Why I recommend it:
This is the book I recommend first to anyone serious about improving their pool game — not through mechanics, but through mindset. It explores the psychology behind performance in pocket billiards, diving into topics like fear, focus, self-consciousness, and the pressure of competition. Fancher, a clinical psychologist and pool player, explains how your internal dialogue and emotional control affect your ability to perform under pressure.
This book helped me understand how to stay centered during matches, trust my instincts, and build confidence even when the pressure’s on.

The Pro Book by Bob Henning

Why I recommend it:
This is a serious training manual for players who want to take their game to a higher level. It’s packed with drills, systems, practice plans, and tournament preparation strategies used by top-level players. It also includes "The Pro Thinking System," which teaches you how to approach the table like a pro with purpose, discipline, and focus.
It’s not a casual read, it’s a workbook. But if you’re ready to treat pool like a sport and not just a hobby, this is a blueprint for improvement.

Inner Tennis: Playing the Game by W. Timothy Gallwey

Why I recommend it:
This book changed the way I think about performance in sports and in anything that requires skill under pressure. Gallwey introduces the idea of quieting the inner critic so you can play from a place of relaxed concentration.
Even though it's about tennis, the lessons translate perfectly to pool: trusting your body’s muscle memory, getting out of your own way, and learning to observe rather than judge your performance. It’s one of those books that keeps coming back to me when I’m stuck in my head at the table.

The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz

Why I recommend it:
This book is a classic for a reason. It’s all about building belief in yourself, setting bigger goals, and overcoming the limiting thoughts that keep most people stuck. It’s not a gimmicky self-help book — it’s practical, encouraging, and filled with real-life examples of how shifting your mindset can change your outcomes.
I come back to this one anytime I need a reminder that bold thinking and consistent action really do pay off. Whether you’re working toward improvement in your game, career, or personal life, this book gives you the mental tools to aim higher.

It Takes What It Takes by Trevor Moawad

Why I recommend it:
This book introduced me to the concept of neutral thinking — a practical, no-nonsense approach to staying focused and resilient, especially when things aren’t going your way. Moawad, a mental conditioning coach to elite athletes, explains how negative and overly positive thinking can both get in the way, and why staying neutral is the key to consistent performance.
It gave me tools to block out distractions, control my response to setbacks, and stay committed to what matters most even under pressure.

The Champion’s Mind by Jim Afremow

Why I recommend it:
This book gives you the tools to think like an elite competitor, no matter your sport. It breaks down the mental habits that separate good athletes from great ones, with a focus on confidence, focus, preparation, and resilience. Afremow draws from decades of sports psychology experience and makes complex ideas easy to apply.
It’s not pool-specific, but the lessons carry over perfectly. If you’ve ever struggled with pressure, self-doubt, or inconsistency, this book shows you how to build a mindset that can handle anything the game throws at you.

Note: Some of these links are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. There’s no extra cost to you.

P.S. Ready to get out of the pages and onto the table? Check out my Gear Guide for all my favorite tools and training aids.