David Allsop

If one has never skied before in their entire life and then picks up this book to try to remedy the situation, then perhaps this book may help prepare them. If, on the other hand, one has skied before (but isn't so hot at it), then this book would be of limited use. The book provides a relatively quick summary of the history of skiing, ski terms (mostly from a European perspective), and some jarring generalizations and stereotypes that apparently passes for humor.

I had learned a few random bits of skiing trivia thanks to this book, but I wouldn't say this knowledge has changed my life for the better. Prior to reading I had thought that perhaps the book might poke fun at the world of skiing while at the same time explaining some of the more esoteric facets of it... sadly, it was not very successful at achieving this. The main joke is centered on how to be a pompous a** while learning how to ski. For this reason I couldn't quite get into it... the 3 star rating is mainly because it did present factual information. My tip is to just skip to the glossary - really the most interesting and humorous section of the entire book.… (meer)

Rather more than just for "Bluffers" i would recommend this as a present for anybody who is either going on their first second or third ski holiday. About 90% of the information contained in this little book would be or real value to a novice or intermediate skier. The humor is a little tired and overall I only managed to raise a tired smile BUT the actual information about what a ski does and how it does it, what resorts are for experts and what resorts work for beginners and indeed what to expect from ski lift attendants, fellow skiers etc is all accurate and valuable! A good sugar-coated pill of information. (I wish somebody have given me this book before my first essay into skiing - in scotland!) For those of you who want to know my qualifications I have been a chalet keeper and full time skier for the last 24 years.… (meer)