THE BEST POKER BOOKS YOU SHOULD HAVE ON YOUR SHELF

The road to becoming a competent poker player takes a while, and becoming a professional poker player takes even longer. With that said, there exists a bridge between seasoned players and advanced poker players.

What other way to challenge serious poker players than by reading up on poker strategy and poker psychology?

Countless poker books have been published to date, explaining the thought process of professional poker players and exploring game theory optimal play. But which poker book is a true must-read? For starters, check out our article addressing the question: is poker luck or skill?

Once that’s cleared up, join us as we dive deep into what every professional poker player teaches us through books. Get ready to join the most professional players in the world in competing for the poker world champion title!

WHY YOU SHOULD READ POKER BOOKS BEFORE STARTING YOUR ADVENTURE WITH POKER GAMES

Reading poker books before playing poker games is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, these books provide fundamental poker knowledge, including rules, strategies, and terminology. Without this understanding, players are likely to make costly mistakes due to ignorance.

Secondly, poker books offer insights into poker strategy, including high-level strategies and techniques employed by experienced and professional players.

By studying these strategies, new players can develop their own approaches and improve their decision-making skills at the table.

Also, poker books often include tips on managing bankroll, improving tilt control, and maintaining a disciplined mental game, which are essential aspects to play optimal poker.

POKER HISTORY WRITTEN IN BOOKS

Of course, our generation isn’t the first to play poker. The game of poker has a rich history, which is why several books have been written in an attempt to highlight its past. After all, modern poker theory is a result of a refining of previous beliefs.

If you want to have a look at a brief article about poker history, feel free to check out our dedicated page about the history of poker.

Without further ado, let’s rewind time by exploring some of the best books about poker’s history.

THE BIGGEST GAME IN TOWN (AL ALVAREZ)

Al Alvarez’s “The Biggest Game in Town” is a classic exploration of the world of high-stakes poker in Las Vegas during the 1980s. While primarily focusing on the World Series of Poker, Alvarez delves into the colorful characters and intense atmosphere that defined the era.

Through his vivid storytelling, readers are transported into the smoky backrooms of casinos, where legendary players like Doyle Brunson and Amarillo Slim battled for glory and riches.

Alvarez’s narrative not only captures the excitement of the game but also provides valuable insights into the social dynamics and psychology of poker players. “The Biggest Game in Town” is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and culture of poker.

POSITIVELY FIFTH STREET (JAMES MCMANUS)

“Positively Fifth Street” by James McManus offers a unique blend of poker history, true crime, and personal memoir. McManus recounts his experience covering the 2000 World Series of Poker for Harper’s Magazine, where he unexpectedly finds himself participating in one of the biggest poker tournaments in the world.

As he competes for a share of the prize pool, McManus weaves together the story of his own journey with the history of poker and the notorious murder trial of Ted Binion, a prominent figure in the Las Vegas casino scene.

Through McManus’s engaging prose, readers gain a deeper understanding of the fascination of poker and its intricate connections to broader themes of risk, chance, and human nature.

COWBOYS FULL: THE STORY OF POKER (JAMES MCMANUS)

In “Cowboys Full: The Story of Poker,” James McManus offers a comprehensive exploration of the history and cultural significance of poker. Spanning centuries and continents, McManus traces the evolution of the game from its origins in Europe to its emergence as a global phenomenon.

He delves into the political, economic, and social factors that have shaped poker throughout history, highlighting its role in shaping societies and influencing popular culture.

McManus also profiles key figures and events in poker history, from Wild West gamblers to modern-day champions, offering readers a rich tapestry of stories and insights. “Cowboys Full” is a meticulously researched and engagingly written tribute to the enduring legacy of poker.

TOP 5 BEST POKER BOOKS YOU MUST READ

Don’t grab a seat at a poker table without reading up on strategy and the mental game of poker. To that end, here are five of the best poker books in the world that address just that.

Poker theory may not be enticing to read at first, but after a couple of unexpected losses, you’ll definitely want to explore areas where you can improve.

THE THEORY OF POKER (DAVID SKLANSKY)

“The Theory of Poker” by David Sklansky is widely regarded as one of the most essential reads for any serious poker player. This book covers the fundamental principles of poker strategy, covering topics such as hand value, pot odds, implied odds, bluffing, and more.

Sklansky’s clear and concise explanations provide readers with a solid foundation for understanding the strategic complexities of the game, equipping players with the analytical tools needed to make informed decisions at the table.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to grasp the basics or an experienced player aiming to refine your skills, “The Theory of Poker” by David Sklansky offers invaluable insights that can elevate your gameplay to the next level.

HARRINGTON ON HOLD’EM (DAN HARRINGTON)

Dan Harrington’s “Harrington on Hold’em” series is a must-read for tournament players; specifically, anyone serious about succeeding in no-limit Hold em poker tournaments.

Drawing on his own experience as a former World Series of Poker champion, Harrington provides readers with a systematic approach to tournament play. He addresses both early and later stages of tournaments, including the bubble and final table play.

Each book in the series offers practical advice backed by Harrington’s strategic insights. With its emphasis on the mental game, patience, and adaptability, the “Harrington on Hold’em” series provides a blueprint for winning poker tournaments that has stood the test of time.

EVERY HAND REVEALED (GUS HANSEN)

In “Every Hand Revealed,” Gus Hansen provides readers with a rare glimpse into the mind of a professional poker player during a major tournament.

Hansen offers valuable insights into his decision-making process and strategic thinking by recounting every hand he played on his way to victory in the 2007 Aussie Millions Poker Championship.

Through Hansen’s analysis, readers gain a deeper understanding of the nuances of tournament poker (not just Aussie Millions, of course!), from hand selection to table dynamics.

Whether you’re an aspiring pro or a recreational player, “Every Hand Revealed” offers valuable lessons that can help improve your game.

LIST OF THE BEST POKER BOOKS FOR BEGINNING PLAYER

As a beginner, you don’t need to dive deep into complex poker systems like poker pros do. Instead, aim to learn the basics of the game of poker while keeping your mental game in check. Here are some poker books to help you with that.

THE GRINDER’S MANUAL: A COMPLETE COURSE IN ONLINE NO-LIMIT HOLD EM (PETER CLARKE)

Peter Clarke’s “The Grinder’s Manual” offers a thorough examination of online no-limit Hold’em cash games, particularly in the 6-max format, making it an excellent resource for beginners looking to sharpen their skills in the digital realm.

Clarke’s systematic approach and in-depth analysis of key concepts such as hand reading and range construction provide beginners with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of online cash games.

By following Clarke’s structured framework and applying his strategic insights, beginners can navigate the complexities of online poker with confidence and competence, setting themselves on a path to success in the online cash games.

DONKEY POKER: CRUSHING LOW-STAKES LIVE NO-LIMIT HOLD’EM (STEVE SELBREDE)

“Donkey Poker: Crushing Low-Stakes Live No-Limit Hold’em” by Steve Selbrede is a comprehensive guide designed to help players navigate and profit from the unique dynamics of low-stakes live no-limit Texas Hold’em games.

The term “donkey poker” refers to common mistakes made by recreational players, like donk betting, and Selbrede offers strategies for exploiting these tendencies to maximize profitability.

With clear and practical advice, the book talks about a wide range of topics including hand selection, position play, bet sizing, and reading opponents. Selbrede provides valuable insights into the mindset of recreational players and offers strategies for capitalizing on their weaknesses.

WINNING LOW LIMIT HOLD’EM (LEE JONES)

Lee Jones’s “Winning Low Limit Hold’em” caters specifically to beginners venturing into low-stakes poker games, offering practical advice tailored to their skill level.

Jones’s accessible writing style and comprehensive coverage of fundamental strategies make this book an ideal starting point for newcomers to the game.

By focusing on topics such as starting hand selection, position play, and basic betting strategies, “Winning Low Limit Hold’em” provides beginners with a solid understanding for approaching low-stakes games with confidence and competence. With Jones’s guidance, novice players can avoid common pitfalls and develop a winning mindset essential for success at the poker table.

ESSENTIAL POKER MATH: FUNDAMENTAL NO-LIMIT HOLD’EM MATHEMATICS YOU NEED TO KNOW (ALTON HARDIN)

For beginners who want to improve their understanding of the mathematical aspects of poker, “Essential Poker Math” by Alton Hardin is a superb resource. Hardin breaks down complex mathematical concepts into easy-to-understand explanations, focusing specifically on their application in no-limit Hold em.

From calculating pot odds to understanding expected value and equity, this book covers everything beginners need to know to make correct play often at the poker table.

By mastering the fundamental math behind the game, novice players can gain a significant advantage over their opponents and start building a solid foundation for long-term success.

SMALL STAKES NO-LIMIT HOLD’EM (ED MILLER, SUNNY MEHTA & MATT FLYNN)

“Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em” is a comprehensive guidebook co-authored by Ed Miller, Sunny Mehta, and Matt Flynn, tailored specifically for players playing low-stakes cash games. This book serves as an invaluable resource for beginners aiming to establish a strong foundation in no-limit Hold em.

Through clear and concise explanations, the authors cover essential topics such as hand selection, position play, and basic betting strategies, ensuring that readers understand the fundamental principles of the game. Additionally, “Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em” offers insights into common pitfalls and mistakes made by players at the lower stakes, along with practical advice on how to exploit opponents and maximize profitability.

With its simple writing style and focus on foundational concepts, this book equips beginners with the knowledge and strategies needed to sail through low-stakes cash games confidently.

PLAYING THE PLAYER: MOVING BEYOND ABC POKER TO DOMINATE YOUR OPPONENTS (ED MILLER & MATT FYLNN)

“Playing the Player: Moving Beyond ABC Poker to Dominate Your Opponents,” offers a refreshing take on poker strategy geared towards players looking to improve on their basic poker skills.

This book is an essential read for beginners eager to deepen their understanding of the game and gain an edge over their opponents. Unlike traditional poker books that focus solely on strategy and hand analysis, “Playing the Player” emphasises the importance of psychological dynamics and player profiling in poker.

Miller and Flynn provide great insights into reading opponents’ tendencies, exploiting weaknesses, and adapting strategies in real-time. Through practical examples and actionable advice, readers learn how to develop a more nuanced approach to the game, moving beyond simplistic ABC poker tactics.

LIST OF THE BEST POKER BOOKS FOR A PROFESSIONAL POKER PLAYER

Now that we’ve addressed new poker players, let’s consider players who already have solid poker skills. Making the next step means taking note of advanced strategies by reading from the very best and getting as much experience as you can.

This can be done by broadening your horizon and playing live games of poker, for instance. Live poker mimics the traditional game of poker, but it is played with a live dealer in real time.

Alas, here are some books to consider if you want to work on becoming a poker master.

MODERN POKER THEORY: BUILDING AN UNBEATABLE STRATEGY BASED ON GTO PRINCIPLES (MICHAEL ACEVEDO)

“Modern Poker Theory” by Michael Acevedo is a groundbreaking book that revolutionises the way professional players approach the game. Drawing upon concepts from game theory optimal (GTO) strategy, Acevedo provides a comprehensive framework for constructing unbeatable poker strategies across various game formats.

This book covers advanced topics such as equilibrium play, mixed strategies, and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses, offering professional players a roadmap to maximising their edge at the tables.

With its in-depth analysis and practical applications, “Modern Poker Theory” is an essential resource for professional players looking to elevate their game to the highest level.

APPLICATIONS OF NO LIMIT HOLD’EM (MATTHEW JANDA)

“Applications of No-Limit Hold’em” by Matthew Janda is a comprehensive guidebook tailored for professional poker players seeking to refine their skills in no-limit Texas Hold em.

Written by Janda, a highly respected poker theorist and coach, this book delves deep into advanced strategies and concepts essential for succeeding at the highest levels of the game.

Janda explores topics such as game theory optimal (GTO) strategies, range construction, and advanced post-flop play, providing readers with the tools to outmaneuver even the toughest opponents.

With its rigorous approach and mathematical insights, “Applications of No-Limit Hold’em” offers professional players invaluable insights and strategies to stay ahead of the curve in today’s competitive poker landscape.

HEADS UP NO LIMIT HOLD’EM (COLIN MOSHMAN)

“Heads-Up No-Limit Hold’em” by Collin Moshman is a definitive guide tailored specifically for players seeking mastery in the intense arena of heads-up play in no-limit Texas Hold’em.

Moshman’s expertise shines through as he delves into high-level strategies designed to give players an edge when facing off against a single opponent. With meticulous detail and insightful analysis, the book talks about essential aspects such as pre-flop hand selection, post-flop decision-making, and exploiting opponents’ tendencies.

Moshman’s approachable writing style and wealth of practical examples make this book an invaluable resource for players looking to elevate their heads-up game to the highest level. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring player seeking to sharpen your skills, “Heads-Up No-Limit Hold’em” provides the tools and knowledge needed to dominate the competition and emerge victorious in heads-up battles.

KILL EVERYONE: ADVANCED STRATEGIES FOR NO-LIMIT HOLD’EM POKER TOURNAMENTS AND SIT-N-GOS (LEE NELSON, TYSEN STREIB, STEVEN HESTON & JOE HACHEM)

This poker book is perfect for players looking to swoop the top prize of Limit tournaments! With a powerhouse team of authors, this book offers an arsenal of great strategies designed to crush the competition and secure victory in high-stakes tournaments and Sit-n-Gos.

From early-stage play to final table dynamics, the book looks at every aspect of tournament strategy, providing invaluable insights into aggressive play, short-stack strategies, optimal bet sizing, and exploiting opponents’ weaknesses.

With its wealth of practical examples and expert analysis, “Kill Everyone” equips players with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the highly competitive world of tournament poker.

THE MATHEMATICS OF POKER (BILL CHEN & JERROD ANKENMAN)

Another staple for players looking to soar to the very top of the poker world is this very book. Through a rigorous exploration of probability theory and decision analysis, Chen and Ankenman provide invaluable insights into the optimal strategies for various poker situations.

From calculating pot odds and expected value to understanding the implications of game dynamics on strategic decision-making, this poker book talks about a wide range of mathematical concepts relevant to poker.

With its emphasis on analytical thinking and mathematical precision, “The Mathematics of Poker” equips advanced players with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and gain an edge over their opponents.

LIST OF THE BEST POKER BOOKS DEDICATED TO POKER GAME STRATEGIES

Poker strategy is the cornerstone of a successful player. Semi bluffing your way to showdown can work, as well as using some poker software you’ve read about online, but implementing a solid poker strategy guarantees a linear approach to optimal decision making.

Here are a few books about poker strategy that you may find useful.

CARO’S BOOK OF POKER TELLS (MIKE CARO)

“Caro’s Book of Poker Tells” by Mike Caro is a classic resource for players looking to improve their understanding of poker psychology and exploit opponents’ weaknesses.

Caro, a renowned poker theorist and player, explores the subtle physical and behavioural cues that can reveal information about opponents’ hands and intentions at the table.

From body language to verbal cues, Caro covers a wide range of tells and offers practical advice on how to interpret and use them to your advantage. With its timeless insights and practical examples, “Caro’s Book of Poker Tells” remains an indispensable tool for players looking to gain an edge in live poker games.

EXPLOITATIVE PLAY IN LIVE POKER (ALEXANDER FITZGERALD)

Alexander Fitzgerald wrote a comprehensive guide to exploiting opponents’ weaknesses in live poker variants. Fitzgerald, a successful professional player and coach, offers practical strategies for identifying and capitalising on common leaks and tendencies exhibited by recreational players.

From exploiting pre-flop tendencies to maximising value in post-flop situations, this poker book talks about a wide range of exploitative techniques designed to boost your win rate at the tables. With its focus on real-world examples and actionable advice, this great book is an invaluable resource for players looking to maximise their profits in live cash games and tournaments.

THE MENTAL GAME OF POKER (JARED TENDLER & BARRY CARTER)

The Mental Game of Poker, written by Jared Tendler and Barry Carter, offers a deep dive into the psychological aspects of poker, providing strategies to improve mental toughness, focus, and decision-making at the table.

Tendler, a renowned mental game coach, draws from his experience working with top poker players to offer insights into common mental pitfalls that affect players of all levels.

From dealing with tilt and overcoming anxiety to maintaining confidence and motivation, this poker book provides practical techniques backed by psychological principles.

By addressing the mental side of the game, this poker book equips players with the tools to perform at their best consistently, both on and off the felt.

Whether you’re a beginner struggling with nerves or an experienced pro looking to sharpen your mental edge, this book offers invaluable advice for mastering the mental side of poker.

LIST OF THE BEST POKER BOOKS DEDICATED TO CASH GAMES STRATEGIES

Although certain winning poker systems can work when playing poker variants, cash games can bring a completely new landscape to poker strategy. To avoid too much hassle with the transition, here are some poker books that can help a poker player with their journey.

MASTERING SMALL STAKES NO-LIMIT HOLD’EM (JONATHAN LITTLE)

“Mastering Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em” by Jonathan Little is a comprehensive guide designed to help players dominate low to mid-stakes cash games.

Little, a highly successful professional player and coach, shares his insights and strategies for navigating the unique challenges of small stakes cash games.

From pre-flop hand selection to post-flop decision-making, this book’s topics cover no-limit Hold’em strategy in a clear and concise manner.

With its practical advice and real-world examples, “Mastering Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em” provides players with the knowledge and confidence needed to crush the competition and increase their win rate at the tables.

CRUSHING THE MICROSTAKES (NATHAN “BLACKRAIN79” WILLIAMS)

“Crushing the Microstakes” by Nathan “BlackRain79” Williams is a must-read for players looking to dominate the lowest stakes cash games online. Williams shares his proven strategies for maximizing profitability in microstakes games, where many players begin their poker journey.

From pre-flop fundamentals to post-flop play and opponent exploitation, this book talks about all aspects of microstakes strategy in a clear and concise manner.

With its focus on practical advice and real-world examples, “Crushing the Microstakes” equips players with the tools and confidence needed to build a solid bankroll and move up the stakes.

THE COURSE: SERIOUS HOLD’EM STRATEGY FOR SMART PLAYERS (ED MILLER)

“The Course” is a comprehensive guide to mastering no-limit Texas Hold’em cash games, written specifically for serious and ambitious players.

Miller provides in-depth analysis of advanced concepts such as range construction, hand reading, and exploiting opponent tendencies, offering readers a systematic approach to improving their game.

With its structured curriculum and practical exercises, “The Course” serves as a roadmap for players looking to hone their skills and achieve consistent success in small stakes cash games.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring player seeking to take your game to the next level, this book provides the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive in small stakes cash games.

LIST OF THE BEST POKER BOOKS DEDICATED TO TOURNAMENT POKER

Tournament strategy is vital for any poker player intending to compete on a big stage. Playing tournaments just like a regular variant at a casino is a big mistake, and these books go on to highlight the importance of every poker player adopting a specific, tailor-made strategy for poker tournaments.

SECRETS OF PROFESSIONAL TOURNAMENT POKER (JONATHAN LITTLE)

This book by Jonathan Little is a comprehensive guide to tournament strategy written by one of the game’s most successful players and coaches. Little covers a wide range of topics, from early-stage play to final table dynamics, offering practical advice and insights gleaned from his extensive experience.

The book provides strategies for adjusting to different stack sizes, exploiting opponents’ tendencies, and making optimal decisions in high-pressure situations. Additionally, it offers valuable tips for satellite play, helping players qualify for major tournaments and increase their chances of success.

With its clear explanations and actionable advice, this great book is an essential resource for players looking to excel in tournaments.

TOURNAMENT POKER FOR ADVANCED PLAYERS (DAVID SKLANSKY)

This book by David Sklansky is a classic text that explores the intricacies of tournament strategies. Sklansky delves into advanced concepts such as expected value calculations, pot odds, and player psychology, offering readers a deep understanding of the game’s theoretical underpinnings.

The book talks about topics like adjusting strategies for different tournament formats, exploiting opponents’ weaknesses, and making optimal decisions based on chip stack dynamics.

Also, it provides insights into satellite play, offering strategies for maximising success in satellite tournaments and securing seats in larger events. With its analytical approach and practical advice, this superb book remains a timeless resource for serious tournament competitors.

THE POKER SATELLITE STRATEGY GUIDE (DARA O’KEARNEY & BARRY CARTER)

“The Poker Satellite Strategy Guide” focuses specifically on satellite tournaments, offering comprehensive strategies for players looking to qualify for major events through satellite formats.

Co-authored by Dara O’Kearney and Barry Carter, this book provides insights into satellite strategy, covering topics such as bankroll management, satellite-specific adjustments, and exploiting satellite opponents.

With its practical advice and real-world examples, “The Poker Satellite Strategy Guide” equips players with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate satellite tournaments effectively and increase their chances of securing seats in larger events.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this book offers valuable insights for maximiSing success in satellite tournaments.

WHERE TO BUY THE BEST POKER BOOKS

You can find the best poker books for purchase at various online and offline retailers. Online marketplaces like Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and eBay offer a wide selection of poker books in both physical and digital formats.

These platforms often have customer reviews and ratings, helping you choose books that suit your preferences and skill level. Also, many poker-specific websites and forums may sell books directly or provide links to reputable sellers.

If you prefer shopping in person, major bookstores, such as Barnes & Noble or Waterstones, often stock popular poker titles in their sports or games sections. Specialty poker stores or gaming shops may carry a selection of poker books too.

E-BOOKS VS. TRADITIONAL POKER BOOKS

E-books and traditional poker books each have their own advantages and drawbacks as they cater to different preferences and needs.

E-books, available in digital format, offer convenience and accessibility, allowing readers to download and access titles instantly on various devices like e-readers, tablets, and smartphones. With e-books, you can carry an entire library of poker resources in your pocket, making it easy to study and reference materials on the go.

Moreover, many e-books feature interactive elements such as hyperlinks, videos, and quizzes, enhancing the learning experience. However, some readers may miss the tactile experience of flipping through physical pages and highlighting passages with traditional books.

Moreover, e-books may present challenges for those who prefer to read for extended periods on screens or lack access to reliable internet connectivity.

On the other hand, traditional poker books, in physical print format, have been a great resource for players looking to improve their game.

These books offer a tangible reading experience, allowing readers to flip through pages, annotate passages, and easily reference key concepts. Traditional poker books often feature high-quality printing and durable bindings, ensuring longevity and durability.

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re playing a traditional game of Texas hold’em, Five Card Draw or Seven Card Stud, reading up on poker is always a good idea.

There are plenty of books that cater to every experience player, so you can rest assured that there’s something out there for you to read to elevate your gameplay.

We highly suggest reading poker books as a way to improve your game, as well as watch experienced players play through streams or in real life.

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