Poker books - some good reading
There is no 'single' book that is perfect for all. Every book is written with different individuals in mind depending on their experience, regularity of play, types of games played, style and strategy. It is true that poker books will improve your game by giving some essential poker tips, but do not get too overconfident; they might hone your poker skills and greatly assist you in your poker journeys, but they are no the panacea to all victories. Read, practice and be honest with yourself by admitting your weaknesses and recognizing your strengths. There is always something new to learn and be open to that.
The following are some of the books that are recommended as a good read for poker players.
Supersystem, by Doyle Brunson
One of the greatest books written way back in 1978, it is a must read, although some of the material is now out dated. Brunson is an excellent money and tournament player and has an engaging style. His book has material contributed by other poker players and covers most of the poker games.
The Theory of Poker, by David Sklansky
Well-known as an excellent poker theorist Polansky's books are good reference materials for any player. This book gives talks about the fundamentals of poker and is vital for a poker enthusiast learning to hone his skills.
Improve Your Poker, by Bob Ciaffone
Ciaffone, considered as one of the most respected teachers and players of our time, his book contains excellent advice and reference material for both beginners and experienced players.
Zen and the Art of Poker, by Larry Phillips
A very informative book, perhaps not for beginners, but certainly one for serious players. More than teaching one how-to-play, it is more of learning how to master and understand yourself and your game before you try to conquer your opponents.
The Art of War, by Sun Tzu
More of poker warfare than poker itself. Read this book after you have read the technical stuff. It is philosophical and will take you to another level, one necessary in serious poker. It teaches you how to compete with morality.
Books for Beginners and Intermediates
Fundamentals of Poker, by Mason Malmuth and Lynne Loomis
A short, pocket-sized, book, mainly for beginners that helps novices prepare for their first poker game.
Thursday Night Poker, by Peter O. Steiner
Most poker playing begins with home games and this is exactly what Steiner stresses on while explaining the fundamentals of the game in a way that it is useful for beginners as well experienced players.
Hold 'em Poker, by David Sklansky
Though advanced players may find it too mechanical, it is absolutely the best book for beginners to start their poker journey.
Scarne's Guide to Modern Poker, by John Scarne
A slightly older book, it is a must read and merits a mention in any list of good poker books.,
Total Poker, by David Spanier
it would suffice to say that Spanier is a terrific writer for all levels and his book is a must read and must have in your collection.
Books for Intermediates and Advanced Players
Poker Essays, Volumes I and II, by Mason Malmuth
Malmuth is better known as a theorist than as a successful tournament or high-limit player, but his essays are par excellence. Although he sometimes talks in absolutes, his opinions are very useful.
Tournament Poker, by Tom McEvoy
If you aspire to tournament success, you must read this book. Tournament play is very different from ring play, and McEvoy has excelled in explaining how.Championship No-Limit and Pot Limit Hold 'em, by T.J. Cloutier and Tom McEvoy -Cloutier is a poker tournament legend, and '83 WSOP Champ McEvoy at close heels. If you are considering serious poker, this book is a must.
Hold 'em Poker for Advanced Players (21st Century Edition), by David Sklansky and Mason Malmuth
Although they are not known for their tournament playing or very high limit successes, this book is a solid platform for improving your game and taking it to the next level.
Seven-Card Stud for Advanced Players (21st Century Edition), by David Sklansky, Mason Malmuth, and Ray Zee
all three have established themselves as respectable players and writers. This book is really designed for those playing at mid-limits, like 20-40 and deserves a place in the list of good books.
Championship Stud Poker, by Max Stern, Tom McEvoy, and Linda Johnson
A useful guide for both mid-limits and tournament players and the best part if that Stern, McEvoy and Johnson freely admit that there's more than one road to success.
Good Anecdotal Books for All Players
The Education of a Poker Player, by Herbert O. Yardley
Despite being a 1957 publication, it is wonderful work of poker art and has helped launch more than a few hundred thousand poker players.,
Big Deal: A Year as a Professional Poker Player, by Anthony Holden
A writer before a player, he has done an excellent job in understanding the world of serious poker.
According to Doyle, by Doyle Brunson
A very entertaining, and also informative, collection of articles by one of poker's all-time great players and personalities.
Tales Out of Tulsa, by Bobby Baldwin
He was the first youngest player to win the World Series. Baldwin has been able to successfully translate his poker playing wisdom into the business having entered the high profile casino management world quite successfully. Some humor combined with lost of wisdom will keep you entertained.
A compilation of some of the good book, this is by no means an exhaustive list of all the best poker books. Nevertheless, it will keep you going for sometime.
