Racing Books are a tough go, no matter how you slice it.

[Carl]

I don't really think there is a market for new racing books. Don't think there is that much "new under the sun". We are a mature industry, what there is to be said about handicapping has already been said. (Of course, urban legend has it that the US patent office guy wanted to close in 1850 too because "there was nothing new to invent".)

But, out of curiousity, who would you like to see write a new book and what about? Use poll or post please.

later,
Carl

[JimG]

Everything I have ever read or heard about Tom Brohamer is that not only is he a stand-up guy but one of the best handicappers, if not the best handicapper, of the name authors.

While I have read Modern Pace Handicapping twice, I would like to see him write a book about betting strategy and how he approaches betting in today's simulcast environment. I also would not mind an extensive section where he would redboard races.

Jim

[Ken Massa]

A book based on HTR stuff?

Harry Potter sells, Steven King sells, John Grisham sells, but my book >>>> "Fraction One for Profit - Understanding Incremental Energy and the Power of Early Velocity in Thoroughbred Racing" would not likely create much of an stir on the NY Times or Amazon.com bestseller lists!

Bottom line, there is no financial incentive for handicapping authors, otherwise there would be many more new books. Horseplayers are notorious for wanting fast food answers, not serious knowledge that takes time to absorb. Also, as TomCat will tell you, you don't get the option of printing a few dozen books and seeing how it goes. Most self-publishing houses have a 1000 book minimum run and you have to buy the books up front and store them yourself. Then figure out how to sell em all. The big publishers will not touch handicapping titles after the losses that William Morrow & Co ate up with Beyer and Quinn books.

Tom Brohamer probably has no interest in writing another another despite the success of Modern Pace Handicapping. Fishing and golf are his first loves and he prefers peace and quiet over money and fame these days.

[hurrikane]

Gee Ken...sounds like a good read for a physics major. :D

How about a book by some of the tournament winners on tournament play

Don't think I've ever seen a book on this subject...anyone else?

[MikeDee]

The other down side to writing a book these days is the ease with which your theory or system can be disproved. In the old days you could take a few races out of the form to prove your point and presto you're an expert. Now 20 guys will jump on your pronouncements run a few thousand races with their db and show the world what a lousy win% and ROI your special formulas really have.