David Linebarger

Awarded Gold Medal as one of eight Outstanding Books of the Year (Original Concept) for the 29th Annual IPPY Awards in 2025.

Named one of “The Best Books We Read in 2024” by Independent Book Review: “This book packs in a lot. Facts and biographical information mix comfortably with emotions spanning joy, anger, sadness, frustration, and even pathos. . . . As rewarding as an absorbing museum exhibit, without having to leave your sofa or armchair. And not just for tennis aficionados.”

Named Book of the Year by Inside Tennis Magazine: “Tennis Players as Works of Art takes us on an inventive journey that touches religion, culture, psychology, and history. Full of lovely art and lyrical vignettes, the new volume is a must-read treat that tennis lovers will relish.”

Named as one of four recommended books in 2024 in the category of Art, Creativity, and Imagination by Publisher’s Weekly Booklife.

Chosen to be featured in the print edition of Kirkus Reviews: “Over a seven-year period, the author compiled a remarkable assemblage of creative pieces by a wide range of artists—paintings, photographs, and images of sculptures that represented the athletic dynamism of tennis as a sport. Each of the dozens of pieces here are accompanied by the author’s commentary, and just as often composed in a soaring, lyrical manner.”

Named an Editor’s Pick from BookLife Review: “Madly Ambitious.”

From Reader’s Favorite: “Tennis Players as Works of Art celebrates human creativity, athleticism, and ingenuity through a combination of art, sports, and poetic storytelling. . . . As a casual tennis watcher, I honestly had never even heard about most of the players featured in this book, yet I thoroughly enjoyed it. It’s a book for tennis fans, poetry lovers, and art enthusiasts alike.”