Pétanque is a French game of throwing skill. This book will teach you the technique, strategy and tactics you need to play well, using over 100 illustrations and diagrams.

We'll start with the basics, describing the throwing technique that is the key to consistency. Using step-by-step instructions and multiple illustrations, you'll learn the best way to throw a boule. Then you'll see how to alter that throw by varying the velocity, angle, and height of the throw, and by adding different amounts of backspin and sidespin. We'll talk about the most appropriate throw for various situations, and how terrain conditions and your experience level influence your choice.

Next, we'll discuss strategy and tactics, exploring the roles of team members, and how playing style varies for different situations. We'll cover the six most common opening plays, and how to deal with each. Specific case studies are explained, showing you the alternatives you face for the five most common boule patterns, and giving you the skills to pick the best play, both offensively and defensively.

We'll go over the physics of boule interactions, helping you to understand how to anticipate boule behavior after an impact from your thrown boule. Combination shots are explored: playing off other boules, or pushing them into different positions. And shooting is discussed in detail: how to shoot, when to shoot, and perhaps more importantly, when not to shoot.

The main part of the book ends with a recap of the most common mistakes people make, along with suggestions to improve your game.

There are five appendices of additional material. There's a list of common rule variations that are used in friendly games, and a guide on how to have fun when you don't have the right number of people for the usual doubles or triples game. We include advice on how to choose the best boules for your game, and how to measure boule distances with and without a tape. And there's a glossary to explain pétanque jargon.

Regardless of your pétanque experience level, this is a book that you must read.