Customer Reviews

The Cooler's Grimoire: The Comprehensive Instructional Guide to Nightclub & Bar Security

5 star:		(2)
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2 star:		(1)
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What can I say, except that I had high hopes. At first glance, it appears impressive- a huge, simple looking textbook, apparently loaded with information, that it until you open it and realize that the font is huge, every line is triple spaced and has huge indentations on every side of the page. It's loaded with useless filler, segways that lead nowhere and information that is second hand and/or literally, right out of Wikipedia or 'Roadhouse'. Lots of head-scratching info about things other than bouncing, very little about being a cooler or working the management side. In addition, the way that the information is conveyed and shoddiness of the editing gives the book a "feel" of a one that any outsider could have put together with random info off of the internet. For an insider with the author's extensive background and qualifications (which he constantly reminds the reader of), I expected, but found very few personal touches, techniques, experiences, opinions, commentary etc. It just didn't feel educational/instructional. This was particularly disappointing. I've been bouncing/cooling for about 9 years and unfortunately bought into surface info that made this book sound like it would be a good read for some of my newer guys to use as a sort of desk reference- show them that "this is the way the pros do things". This book, however, was a disappointment.

Having worked the door for over 16 years, I've read every piece of door literature out there. It is important, as professionals, to seek out the knowledge and experience of those who came before us. Each of these books gives insight based on the author's personal perspective and attitude. Having known Doc for 11 years, he has insights and stories that have helped me countless times while working the door. The fact of the matter is that this man pre dates "Road House" and his professional attitude has paved the way for others to follow. This book allows the reader to get an understanding of the profession and answers many of the common questions new and old "bouncers' might have about the business. A mix of hard facts with anecdotal observations, The Cooler's Grimoire can only help.

I run the UK's largest Security Training company, last year we invited Ivan "Doc" Holiday to UK to train our instructors and found his knowledge to be absolutlely phenomenal, his passion for the industry is second to none. I have read Doc's books and found them interesting, accurate, objective, thorough, and useful to its intended audience.

I recommend this book...highly!

Shahzad Ali - Get Licensed.