Poker books are an essential tool for any serious poker player looking to improve their game. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which books to read. In this article, we will provide our top picks and reviews of the best poker books on the market.
These books cover a range of topics, from strategy and theory to psychology and mindset, and are written by some of the most respected and successful players in the game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these books are sure to help you take your game to the next level.
1. The Theory of Poker by David Sklansky
The Theory of Poker is a classic poker book that every beginner should read. It covers the fundamental concepts of poker, including hand rankings, pot odds, and expected value. Sklansky’s writing style is clear and concise, making it easy for beginners to understand.
2. Harrington on Hold’em by Dan Harrington
Harrington on Hold’em is a three-volume series that covers everything you need to know about playing Texas Hold’em. The books are written in a conversational style, making them easy to read and understand. Harrington’s advice is practical and actionable, making it a great resource for beginners.
3. Winning Low-Limit Hold’em by Lee Jones
Winning Low-Limit Hold’em is a great book for beginners who are just starting to play poker. Jones covers the basics of the game, including hand rankings, position, and pot odds. He also provides practical advice on how to beat low-limit games.
4. Small Stakes Hold’em by Ed Miller, David Sklansky, and Mason Malmuth
Small Stakes Hold’em is a comprehensive guide to playing low-limit Texas Hold’em. The book covers everything from hand selection to bluffing, making it a great resource for beginners. The authors provide clear explanations and examples, making it easy to understand the concepts.
5. The Mental Game of Poker by Jared Tendler and Barry Carter
The Mental Game of Poker is a must-read for any beginner who wants to improve their mental game. Tendler and Carter cover topics such as tilt, confidence, and focus. They provide practical advice on how to overcome mental obstacles and improve your overall game.
6. Super System by Doyle Brunson
Super System is a classic poker book that covers a wide range of topics, including Texas Hold’em, Seven-Card Stud, and Lowball. Brunson’s writing style is engaging and informative, making it a great resource for beginners. The book also includes contributions from other poker legends, such as Mike Caro and David Sklansky.
7. Every Hand Revealed by Gus Hansen
Every Hand Revealed is a unique poker book that provides a detailed analysis of every hand Gus Hansen played in a major tournament. The book provides insight into Hansen’s thought process and decision-making, making it a great resource for beginners who want to improve their game.
8. Zen and the Art of Poker by Larry Phillips
Zen and the Art of Poker is a unique poker book that combines Eastern philosophy with poker strategy. Phillips provides practical advice on how to improve your game while also providing insights into mindfulness and meditation.
9. The Course by Ed Miller
The Course is a comprehensive guide to playing Texas Hold’em. Miller covers everything from hand selection to advanced strategies, making it a great resource for beginners who want to improve their game. The book also includes quizzes and exercises to help you practice what you’ve learned.
10. Essential Poker Math by Alton Hardin
Essential Poker Math is a great resource for beginners who want to improve their understanding of poker math. Hardin covers topics such as pot odds, expected value, and equity, making it easy to understand the concepts. The book also includes quizzes and exercises to help you practice what you’ve learned.
Expert Reviews: The Best Advanced Poker Strategy Books
The first book on our list is “The Theory of Poker” by David Sklansky. This book is considered a classic in the poker world and is a must-read for anyone serious about improving their game. Sklansky’s book covers a wide range of topics, including game theory, hand analysis, and strategic thinking. He also provides detailed explanations of various poker concepts, such as pot odds, implied odds, and expected value.
Another great book for advanced players is “Harrington on Hold’em” by Dan Harrington. This book is a comprehensive guide to playing Texas Hold’em, and it covers everything from basic strategy to advanced tactics. Harrington’s book is particularly useful for tournament players, as it provides detailed advice on how to play in different stages of a tournament and how to adjust your strategy based on your opponents’ playing styles.
If you’re looking for a book that focuses specifically on cash games, “Professional No-Limit Hold’em” by Ed Miller, Sunny Mehta, and Matt Flynn is an excellent choice. This book provides a detailed analysis of no-limit hold’em cash games, including hand selection, bet sizing, and bluffing. The authors also provide advice on how to read your opponents and exploit their weaknesses.
For players who are interested in learning more about the mental game of poker, “The Mental Game of Poker” by Jared Tendler and Barry Carter is a must-read. This book covers a wide range of topics, including tilt, confidence, and focus. Tendler and Carter provide practical advice on how to overcome mental obstacles and improve your overall performance at the table.
Finally, “Expert Heads Up No Limit Hold’em” by Will Tipton is a great book for players who want to improve their heads-up play. This book provides a detailed analysis of heads-up no-limit hold’em, including hand ranges, bet sizing, and bluffing. Tipton also provides advice on how to adjust your strategy based on your opponent’s playing style and how to exploit their weaknesses.
The Most Inspirational Poker Biographies: A Review
One of the most popular poker biographies is “Molly’s Game” by Molly Bloom. This book tells the story of Bloom’s rise to fame as the host of high-stakes poker games in Los Angeles and New York. Bloom’s story is one of ambition, risk-taking, and ultimately, redemption. She provides a fascinating insight into the world of underground poker and the people who play it. The book is well-written and engaging, and it is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the world of high-stakes poker.
Another excellent poker biography is “The Professor, the Banker, and the Suicide King” by Michael Craig. This book tells the story of a high-stakes poker game that took place in Las Vegas in 2001. The game featured billionaire banker Andy Beal, who took on a group of professional poker players known as “The Corporation.” The book provides a detailed account of the game, as well as the personalities and strategies of the players involved. It is a fascinating read for anyone who is interested in the psychology of poker and the strategies that professional players use to win.
“Positively Fifth Street” by James McManus is another excellent poker biography. The book tells the story of McManus’s journey to Las Vegas to cover the World Series of Poker for Harper’s Magazine. While in Las Vegas, McManus decides to enter the tournament himself, and he ends up making it to the final table. The book provides a detailed account of McManus’s experiences in Las Vegas, as well as his thoughts and strategies as he plays in the tournament. It is a well-written and engaging book that provides a unique perspective on the world of professional poker.
Finally, “The Biggest Game in Town” by Al Alvarez is a classic poker biography that is still relevant today. The book tells the story of the World Series of Poker in the 1980s, when the game was just starting to gain mainstream popularity. Alvarez provides a detailed account of the personalities and strategies of the players involved, as well as the history and culture of the game. The book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the history of poker and the people who play it.
Poker Fiction: The Best Novels and Short Stories for Poker Fans
One of the most famous poker novels is “The Cincinnati Kid” by Richard Jessup. This book was published in 1963, and it tells the story of a young poker player named Eric “The Kid” Stoner. The Kid is a talented player, but he is also reckless and impulsive. He is determined to beat the best player in the world, Lancey “The Man” Howard, in a high-stakes game of poker. The book is a classic tale of the underdog taking on the champion, and it is a must-read for any poker fan.
Another great poker novel is “Shut Up and Deal” by Jesse May. This book was published in 1998, and it tells the story of a young poker player named Mickey. Mickey is a talented player, but he is also a bit of a wild card. He travels from city to city, playing in underground poker games and trying to make a name for himself. Along the way, he meets a cast of colorful characters, including a washed-up poker pro and a beautiful woman who may or may not be on his side. The book is a fast-paced, gritty look at the world of underground poker, and it is a great read for anyone who loves the game.
If you are looking for a collection of short stories, “The Biggest Game in Town” by Al Alvarez is a great choice. This book was published in 1983, and it features a series of stories about the World Series of Poker. Alvarez was a journalist who covered the event for many years, and he provides readers with a behind-the-scenes look at the players, the games, and the drama that unfolds at the World Series. The stories are well-written and engaging, and they provide readers with a glimpse into the world of professional poker.
For those who are looking for something a bit more modern, “Molly’s Game” by Molly Bloom is a great choice. This book was published in 2014, and it tells the true story of a young woman who ran a high-stakes poker game for some of the world’s wealthiest and most powerful men. Bloom’s story is a fascinating look at the world of underground poker, and it is a must-read for anyone who is interested in the game.
Final Thoughts
Poker books are a great resource for players of all levels to improve their game. The top picks and reviews vary depending on the player’s skill level and preferred style of play. However, some of the most highly recommended books include “The Theory of Poker” by David Sklansky, “Harrington on Hold’em” by Dan Harrington, and “Super/System” by Doyle Brunson. It is important to note that reading a book alone will not make someone a great poker player, but it can provide valuable insights and strategies to incorporate into their game.