New book "Ben Hogan's Short Game Simplified" might be the most useful of the three Hogan books published this year

Call it the year of Ben Hogan.

At least when it comes to published golf books. Three golf books about Hogan have come across my desk the last six months.

“The Miracle at Merion: The Inspiring Comeback and Victory at the 1950 U.S. Open,” by David Barrett, chronicles Hogan’s greatest win just months after his car accident.

“Mr. Hogan: The Man I Knew” details how a former LPGA player Kris Tschetter forged a relationship with “The Hawk” including the experience of playing with Hogan for what turns out to be the final nine holes of his life.

Those are two good reads, but the book, “Ben Hogan’s Short Game Simplified” by Ted Hunt, could be the most valuable of the three. Few know Hogan and his theories better than Hunt, who also wrote the book “Ben Hogan’s Magical Device,” now in its fourth printing. In his latest look at Hogan, Hunt dissects the legend’s short game from 120 yards and in, all the way from the takeaway to the follow through.

Each chapter breaks down all the steps for spectacular putting, flop shots, bunker shots, chipping, spinning the ball, the pitch shot and drawing and fading the ball. Hunt offers drills and physical exercises that can be done at home to keep the body in peak shape for golf. By sharing personal anecdotes from Hogan’s life, Hunt gives us a look at Hogan the man as well. Maybe something within the pages – including the 200 photographs and graphics – can unlock your inner Hogan.

Published by Skyhorse Publishing on Oct. 29, the book retails for $16.95.