Reading List of Professional Pickleballers: In professional pickleball, athletes are often on the move for tournaments, clinics, and personal appearances. With busy schedules, many players find solace in books and audiobooks, using them as a way to decompress and unwind. Among them, Ben Johns stands out as an avid reader, but he’s certainly not alone in his appreciation for literature. Here’s a look at some of the titles currently captivating the attention of pickleball’s elite.
Christian Alshon Favors Non-Fiction
Christian Alshon leans towards non-fiction and self-development works, occasionally indulging in a bestselling fiction novel. He recently shared his reading list, which features a blend of genres.
“I’m currently reading an iconic book, The Inner Game of Tennis by W. Timothy Gallwey. I recently read The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho.” – (Christian Alshon)
“I just looked up top entertaining books because I read so many non-fiction, self-development, and sports psychology books that they get repetitive and boring, so I try to keep reading fun. Every now and then, I throw in a fictional and entertaining book, like for variety. I also read The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.” – (Christian Alshon)
His ultimate recommendation comes as no surprise, given its emotional depth.
“It’s Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins. It’s the best book I’ve ever read in my life. It brought me to tears at least four times while reading it. It’s an emotional story, but everyone should read it.” – (Christian Alshon)
Parris Todd: A Christian Perspective
Parris Todd brings a spiritual touch to her reading habits, focusing on Christian non-fiction.
“I have quiet time every morning. I pray, read the bible, and I read different Christian books every single day. I probably finish a book or two a month because I like to take my time on them.” – (Parris Todd)
“I really like Lee Strobel. I think he’s really good for people who are curious about Christ, and he writes a lot of good books. I recommend just looking him up and then from there figuring out which book or topic resonates with you the most.” – (Parris Todd)
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Alex Walker: Romance and Fantasy
For those who lean towards romance, Alex Walker is the go-to player.
“I’m currently reading Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover and it’s been good so far. I like romance and fantasy, and I just read Fourth Wing and Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros.” – (Alex Walker)
Beyond her individual reading, Alex Walker enjoys participating in a book club with friends.
“At book club, we all read Fourth Wing where we all picked our dragons, made food that went with the book, and had a girl’s night. It was so much fun.” – (Alex Walker)
Ben Johns: The Fantasy Enthusiast
Ben Johns, known for his fantasy genre preferences, often listens to audiobooks during his travels.
“I listen to a lot of audiobooks because of traveling. I’m currently reading Dune for the third time. I read it once in high school, another time in college, and now I’m reading it again before the next movie comes out.” – (Ben Johns)
His recent reads also include Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas and Iron Flame by Rebecca Yarros.
A Pro Pickleball Book Club?
With such a diverse array of literary interests among professional players, it may be time to consider a pro pickleball book club. The blend of genres and shared enthusiasm for reading could lead to fascinating discussions and deeper connections on and off the court.
News in Brief: Reading List of Professional Pickleballers
Professional pickleball players are embracing literature as a way to unwind while traveling. Christian Alshon favors non-fiction, currently reading The Inner Game of Tennis, while Parris Todd focuses on Christian books, recommending Lee Strobel.
Alex Walker enjoys romance novels, recently engaging her book club in themed activities. Ben Johns, a fantasy enthusiast, is re-reading Dune in preparation for its film adaptation.
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