I had no interest in trashing him”: James Patterson on why he needed to tell Tiger Woods’ story

Unveiling Tiger Woods: James Patterson’s Riveting Biography

When recounting the extraordinary life and career of Tiger Woods, one of the most illustrious and scrutinized athletes in history, the stakes are high. Enter James Patterson, the prolific best-selling author known for his thrillers, who takes on the challenge with his latest book, *Tiger, Tiger* (July 15, Little Brown and Company).

A New Approach to a Legendary Figure

Patterson’s venture into biography is born from his love for golf and his recognition of Woods as a major historical figure. Woods, second only to the legendary “Golden Bear” Jack Nicklaus in Masters Tournament victories, has captivated the world from a young age. His parents, Earl and Kultida Woods, made significant sacrifices, including a second mortgage on their home, to support Tiger’s burgeoning talent, enabling him to compete in the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) and gain exposure to college recruiters.

Exploring the Woods Family Dynamic

*Tiger, Tiger* delves deeply into Woods’ family, offering a candid portrait of their unique dynamics and diverse backgrounds. Patterson explores Woods’ multiethnic identity—Earl was half Black, a quarter Native American, and a quarter Chinese, while Kultida is half Thai, a quarter white, and a quarter Chinese—which has been both a focal point and a point of contention throughout Woods’ career. The book highlights how his mother, Tida, called him the “Universal Child,” while the media often portrayed him solely as Black, leading to Woods coining the term “Cablinasian” to describe his mixed heritage.

Personal Woes and Public Scrutiny

Patterson doesn’t shy away from Woods’ personal troubles, including his widely publicized infidelity that led to his 2010 divorce from Elin Nordegren and a subsequent shift in public perception. Patterson’s approach, however, is one of understanding rather than judgment. “Let’s forgive people within reason,” he says, emphasizing his intent to tell Woods’ story without sensationalism.

A Storyteller’s Perspective

In an interview, Patterson explains his unique approach to Woods’ biography. Unlike many who merely compile facts or editorialize, Patterson aims to tell a compelling story that captures the essence of Woods’ life and career. He believes Woods is an important historical figure not just for his golfing achievements but also for his life’s trajectory—from predicting his future success on “The Mike Douglas Show” at age five to navigating his complex racial identity and personal challenges.

The Influence of Family

Patterson highlights the significant impact of Woods’ parents on his career. Earl Woods recognized and nurtured Tiger’s talent from an early age, while Tida’s competitive spirit pushed him to excel. Their combined influence created an environment that balanced support with high expectations, contributing to Woods’ phenomenal success.

A Compassionate Portrayal

Patterson’s portrayal of Woods is balanced with compassion. He acknowledges Woods’ shortcomings as a husband but emphasizes his efforts to be a good father. Stories like Tiger’s late-night leg presses to soothe his crying daughter, Sam, and his close relationship with his children add depth to the narrative, showing a side of Woods often overshadowed by his public scandals.

A Broader Context

Patterson’s meticulous research, combined with his storytelling prowess, provides a comprehensive view of Woods’ life. From the pain management issues that may have contributed to his infamous crash to the unwavering support of his mother even after his scandals, Patterson weaves together a narrative that offers both context and compassion.

A Legacy Beyond Golf

Ultimately, *Tiger, Tiger* is not just a biography for golf fans but for anyone interested in the story of an extraordinary individual. Patterson’s approach, focused on storytelling rather than judgment, presents Woods as a complex, flawed, yet profoundly influential figure in sports and American history.

Patterson’s Insights and Reflections

In the interview, Patterson shares his thoughts on the direction of the book, his research process, and the surprising elements of Woods’ life. He reflects on the balance of truth and compassion in storytelling, emphasizing the importance of letting readers form their own opinions. Patterson’s narrative style, honed through years of writing thrillers, brings a fresh perspective to Woods’ biography, making it a compelling read for a broad audience.

 

In *Tiger, Tiger*, James Patterson succeeds in telling the story of Tiger Woods in a way that is both informative and engaging, capturing the essence of a man who has had a profound impact on the world of sports and beyond.