Reading 'Running the Table' felt like stepping into a dimly lit pool hall, the scent of chalk and stale beer in the air. Kid Delicious isn't your typical hero—he's flawed, relatable, and utterly captivating. I found myself rooting for him with every missed shot and triumphant win.

The book’s real magic lies in its raw honesty. Danny Basavich’s struggles with mental health and self-doubt aren’t glossed over; they’re woven into his journey like the spin on a well-struck cue ball. There were moments I laughed at his antics (like torturing pros with his 'slow play') and others where I genuinely held my breath during high-stakes matches.

Wertheim’s writing crackles with energy—you can almost hear the clack of balls colliding. The road-trip scenes with Bristol Bob are cinematic; I could taste the diner coffee and feel the weight of their worn-out cue cases. It’s not just about pool—it’s about obsession, camaraderie, and beating the odds when everything (including your own demons) is stacked against you.

Minor gripes? The Kindle version’s typos occasionally yanked me out of the story like a miscued break shot. And while some might argue Basavich isn’t the GOAT of pool, that misses the point—this isn’t a stats sheet, it’s a love letter to underdogs everywhere.

Finished it in two sittings. If you've ever stayed up past midnight chasing that perfect shot (in life or pool), this book will feel like coming home.