Poker books are great tools for learning how to play poker, but they can also be helpful if you want to learn more about the game. They cover a variety of topics that will help you improve your game and win more money. In this blog post, we’ll go over some of the best poker books of all-time – so let’s get started!

Best Poker Books for Beginners

These poker books for beginners provide a solid introduction to the game’s rules, basic strategies, and how to start playing, ideal for those new to poker.

Master Your Game
theory of poker

The Theory of Poker

1999, by David Sklansky.


Dive deep into the strategic world of poker with David Sklansky’s The Theory of Poker. This seminal work covers everything from fundamental principles to advanced strategies across various poker games, offering readers the tools to elevate their play and understanding of one of the most challenging and rewarding card games.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive Coverage.
  • Theoretical Rigor.
  • Practical examples.
  • Variety of Games.
  • Cons
  • Steep Learning Curve
  • Dated Examples

4.8

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur

Poker For Dummies

2000, Richard D. Harroch and Lou Krieger


“Poker For Dummies” is an accessible entry point into the world of poker, covering the essentials of various poker games, basic strategies, and the rules of play. Harroch and Krieger combine their expertise to demystify poker for beginners, offering practical advice on everything from reading the table to managing your bankroll. With its friendly and straightforward approach, this book is perfect for anyone looking to understand the fundamentals of poker without getting overwhelmed by complexity.

  • Pros
  • Accessible to beginners.
  • Covers a broad range of poker games.
  • Practical advice on gameplay and strategy.
  • Not geared towards advanced players.
  • Cons
  • Not geared towards advanced players.
  • Some strategies may be too basic for intermediate players.

4.0

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
essential poker math

Essential Poker Math

2016 by Alton Hardin


“Essential Poker Math” by Alton Hardin is a foundational guide that introduces players to the mathematical concepts crucial to competitive poker. Hardin simplifies complex theories into understandable segments, covering probability, odds, expected value, and more, to help players make more informed decisions. This book is an excellent resource for those looking to grasp the numerical aspects of poker, providing a solid base for improving game strategy and enhancing overall play efficiency.

  • Pros
  • Simplifies complex math concepts.
  • Enhances strategic decision-making.
  • Accessible across skill levels.
  • Applicable to various poker forms.
  • Ideal for beginners to intermediate players.
  • Cons
  • May be too basic for advanced players.
  • Focuses more on theory than application.

4.0

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Poker Tournament Strategy Books

These books focus on tournament-specific strategies, helping players navigate through the different phases of a tournament.

Coup de coeur
every hand revealed

Every Hand Revealed

2008, Gus Hansen


Gus Hansen’s “Every Hand Revealed” offers an unprecedented look into the mind of a professional poker player, dissecting over 300 hands Hansen played during his 2007 Aussie Millions Main Event win. This book combines a narrative journey with analytical insights, providing readers with the rationale behind Hansen’s aggressive and unconventional play style. It’s a masterclass in risk management, bluffing, and the psychological aspects of poker, delivered in Hansen’s engaging and candid voice.

  • Pros
  • Detailed analysis of numerous hands.
  • Insight into an aggressive playstyle.
  • Engaging and straightforward narrative.
  • Practical insights into tournament play.
  • Cons
  • Focuses mainly on one tournament.
  • May encourage overly aggressive play in amateurs.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
mastering small stakes no limit holdem

Mastering Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em

2017, Jonathan Little


Jonathan Little’s “Mastering Small Stakes No-Limit Hold’em” is a comprehensive guide aimed at turning novice players into formidable opponents at the lower stakes. Little focuses on fundamental strategies and adjustments necessary to dominate small stakes games, emphasizing practical play over theoretical concepts. The book is filled with actionable advice, hand examples, and Little’s insights into navigating the nuances of small stakes play, making it an invaluable resource for players looking to build a solid foundation and grow their bankroll.

  • Pros
  • Tailored strategies for small stakes.
  • Actionable advice with real examples.
  • Focus on practical over theoretical play.
  • Insights from a proven poker professional.
  • Cons
  • Some content may be basic for experienced players.
  • Focuses primarily on lower stakes play.

4.7

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

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strategies for beating small stakes poker tournaments

Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Tournaments

2015, Jonathan Little


Jonathan Little’s “Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Tournaments” is a concise yet impactful guide designed to elevate the tournament play of individuals stuck at lower stakes. Little, a two-time World Poker Tour champion with over $6.4 million in live tournament earnings, shares his wealth of knowledge, focusing on actionable strategies to conquer small stakes games. This book demystifies the journey from amateur to seasoned player, emphasizing the importance of adapting strategies against different types of opponents and stepping out of one’s comfort zone to achieve significant wins. It’s an essential read for players aiming to progress in stakes, offering insights into opponent profiling, mental game adjustments, and strategic flexibility.

  • Pros
  • Direct, actionable strategies.
  • Emphasis on opponent adaptation.
  • Insights from a proven tournament champion.
  • Focus on mental game and strategic flexibility.
  • Cons
  • Some content may be review for advanced players.
  • Focused primarily on tournament play, less so on cash games.

4.5

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Cash Game Strategy Books

These works provide insights for cash game play, with strategies on how to handle table dynamics and bankrolls.

Coup de coeur

Power Hold’em Strategy

2008, Daniel Negreanu


Daniel Negreanu’s “Power Hold’em Strategy” offers a comprehensive look into advanced strategies for modern No-Limit Hold’em. Featuring contributions from other professional players, the book covers a wide range of tactics, from small ball poker to aggressive big-stack strategies. Negreanu combines his extensive experience with practical advice, making complex concepts accessible to players of all levels. This book is essential for those looking to refine their play and adopt a more dynamic approach to the game.

  • Pros
  • Detailed strategies from a top pro.
  • Contributions from multiple expert players.
  • Covers both theory and practical application.
  • Accessible to a broad range of skill levels.
  • Cons
  • Some strategies may require significant adaptation for online play.
  • Can be dense for absolute beginners.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
strateies for beating small stakes power cash game

Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Cash Games

by Jonathan Little.


Jonathan Little’s “Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Cash Games” is a targeted guide designed to help players navigate and dominate the often unpredictable environment of small stakes cash games. Little shares insights into adjusting playstyles to exploit common mistakes made at lower levels, emphasizing aggressive play and strategic thinking. This book is packed with practical advice aimed at increasing profitability for novice and intermediate players eager to climb the ranks in cash game poker.

  • Pros
  • Tailored strategies for small stakes.
  • Practical, actionable advice.
  • Emphasis on exploiting common mistakes.
  • Insightful for novice and intermediate players.
  • Cons
  • May not cover high-stakes nuances.
  • Specific focus limits broader applicability.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Strategize, Psychologize, Win
No limit texas hold'em by Tom McEvoy

No Limit Hold’em

2004, by Tom McEvoy.


In “No Limit Hold’em,” poker legend Tom McEvoy delves deep into the strategies that have earned him a World Series of Poker bracelet and solidified his reputation in the poker world. This book, published in 2004, combines McEvoy’s decades of experience with comprehensive advice for players aspiring to master No Limit Texas Hold’em. Through detailed explanations and examples, McEvoy guides readers from the basics of hand selection to the complex dynamics of tournament play, emphasizing the psychological aspects that separate good players from great ones.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive Strategy
  • Tournament Insights
  • Psychological Tactics
  • Accessible Writing
  • Cons
  • Lack of Online Focus
  • Limited Coverage on Cash Games

4.3

Overall rating

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Poker Psychology Books

These books delve into the mental aspects of the game, from tilt management to the psychology behind decision-making.

Coup de coeur
the mental game of poker

The Mental Game of Poker

2011, Jared Tendler


Jared Tendler’s “The Mental Game of Poker” offers an in-depth look into the psychological aspects of poker, addressing common mental pitfalls and providing strategies for emotional control and improved decision-making. Tendler combines theoretical knowledge with practical advice, making it a pivotal resource for players aiming to manage tilt, enhance focus, and achieve long-term success in poker.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive guide to psychological strategies.
  • Practical techniques for overcoming tilt.
  • Insights into improving focus and discipline.
  • Tailored advice for players at all levels.
  • Cons
  • Some concepts may feel repetitive.
  • Requires commitment to apply techniques.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

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the mental game of poker 2

The Mental Game of Poker 2

2013, Jared Tendler with Barry Carter


“The Mental Game of Poker 2” builds on the foundational psychological strategies presented in its predecessor, diving deeper into the mental aspects that affect poker performance. Jared Tendler, with Barry Carter, expands on topics such as emotional control, confidence, motivation, and fear, providing readers with advanced tools to tackle the psychological hurdles that players face. This sequel offers new strategies for mental toughness, focusing on long-term improvement and peak performance. It’s an essential read for poker players at any level looking to enhance their mental approach to the game.

  • Pros
  • Advanced psychological strategies.
  • Focus on long-term mental resilience.
  • Practical advice for overcoming mental blocks.
  • Suitable for all levels of poker players.
  • Cons
  • May require familiarity with the first book.
  • Some concepts can be abstract and challenging.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

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phil hellmuth read em and reap

Phil Hellmuth Presents Read ‘Em and Reap: A Career FBI Agent’s Guide to Decoding Poker Tells

2006, Joe Navarro with Marvin Karlins, presented by Phil Hellmuth


“Read ‘Em and Reap” offers a unique perspective on poker tells, combining the expertise of former FBI agent Joe Navarro in non-verbal communication with the poker acumen of Phil Hellmuth, one of poker’s most renowned players. This book provides a detailed guide to interpreting opponents’ gestures, movements, and expressions at the poker table, translating Navarro’s experience in behavioral analysis into practical advice for poker players. With Hellmuth’s insights and Karlins’ psychological expertise, this book is an invaluable tool for anyone looking to gain an advantage in live poker through better understanding of tells.

  • Pros
  • Unique insights from an FBI agent.
  • Comprehensive analysis of non-verbal communication.
  • Practical and applicable advice.
  • Enhanced by Phil Hellmuth’s poker expertise.
  • Cons
  • Focuses exclusively on live poker tells.
  • Some advice may require practice to implement effectively.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
caro's book poker tells

Caro’s Book of Poker Tells

2003, Mike Caro


“Caro’s Book of Poker Tells” is a seminal work in the field of poker psychology, offering an in-depth analysis of the physical and verbal cues (tells) players exhibit at the table. Mike Caro, a respected authority in poker strategy, compiles an extensive list of common tells, categorizing them into actionable insights that players can use to read their opponents more effectively. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to gain an edge in live play by mastering the art of tell interpretation.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive guide to poker tells.
  • Practical insights into opponent behavior.
  • Pioneering work by a poker expert.
  • Valuable for live game players.
  • Cons
  • Primarily focused on live play, less relevant for online.
  • Some tells may be less applicable in modern games.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Advanced Strategy and Poker Theory Books

For experienced players looking to deepen their understanding of the game with complex strategies and the application of poker theory.

Master Mindful Play
elements of poker

Elements of Poker

2019, Tommy Angelo


“Elements of Poker” by Tommy Angelo transcends traditional poker literature by emphasizing mental resilience, strategic acumen, and personal growth. Angelo’s compelling narrative and practical advice equip players with essential tools for mastering emotional control and strategic thinking, making this book a must-read for anyone aiming to elevate their poker game.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive Approach
  • Emotional Mastery
  • Accessible Wisdom
  • Practical Strategies
  • Cons
  • Less Focus on Advanced Mat
  • Some Concepts May Require Re-reading

4.6

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
poker super system doyle brunson

Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2

2005, Doyle Brunson (and others)


Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2″ is a comprehensive update to the legendary poker player’s original guide, expanding on strategies for modern poker games. This sequel enlists the expertise of several top poker professionals, covering a wide array of games from No-Limit Hold’em to Triple Draw. It provides advanced strategies, poker psychology, and Brunson’s insights from decades at the tables. A must-read for serious players, it continues to influence poker strategy.

  • Pros
  • Expert advice across poker variants.
  • Advanced strategies and theories.
  • Accessible across skill levels.
  • Insights from a poker legend.
  • Comprehensive coverage of poker psychology.
  • Cons
  • Some strategies may be outdated.
  • Complexity can be overwhelming for new players.

4.0

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
gto poker simplified

GTO Poker Simplified: Strategy lessons from the solvers that any cash game or tournament player can apply to their game (The Poker Solved Series)

2022, Dara O’Kearney and Barry Carter


“GTO Poker Simplified” by Dara O’Kearney and Barry Carter is an essential guide that demystifies Game Theory Optimal (GTO) poker strategy for a broad audience. Aimed at bridging the gap between high-level theory and practical application, the book makes GTO accessible to players of all levels. Through clear explanations, real-life examples, and actionable strategies, it dispels common myths about GTO being only for the elite, offering insights into range play, bluffing, bet sizing, and adapting strategies across different poker scenarios. This work stands out for its ability to translate complex solver outputs into understandable concepts, making it a pivotal resource for anyone looking to elevate their game in the modern poker landscape.

  • Pros
  • Clarifies complex GTO concepts for all player levels.
  • Practical, real-life application of strategies.
  • Comprehensive coverage from preflop to river play.
  • Includes heuristics for immediate table application.
  • Cons
  • Solver images may confuse without initial guidance.
  • Some concepts demand a strong foundational poker knowledge.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur

Play Optimal Poker: Practical Game Theory for Every Poker Player

2019, Andrew Brokos


Andrew Brokos’s “Play Optimal Poker” breaks down game theory in a way that’s accessible and practical for poker players at all levels. The book moves beyond the abstract principles of GTO (Game Theory Optimal) play, providing readers with concrete examples and strategies that can be applied directly to their game. Brokos excels at making complex concepts understandable, ensuring that even those new to game theory can grasp its importance and use it to improve their decision-making at the table.

  • Pros
  • Simplifies complex game theory concepts.
  • Practical advice for real-game situations.
  • Accessible across skill levels.
  • Focuses on improving decision-making.
  • Cons
  • Some sections may require re-reading for full comprehension.
  • Advanced players might desire more depth in certain areas.

4.5

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Play Smarter, Win Bigger
100 essential-tips-to-master-no-limit-holdem

100 Essential Tips to Master No-Limit Hold’em

2023, Jonathan Little


Discover the secrets to dominating the poker table with “100 Essential Tips to Master No-Limit Hold’em” a comprehensive guide for players seeking to enhance their strategy and gameplay. This book provides actionable insights and strategies, designed to elevate your poker game to new heights.

  • Pros
  • Comprehensive Coverage
  • Practical Advice
  • Expert Insights
  • Actionable Tips
  • Cons
  • Overwhelming Information
  • Lacks Personalization

4.7

Overall rating

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
modern poker theory

Modern Poker Theory

2019, Michael Acevedo


“Modern Poker Theory” by Michael Acevedo is a groundbreaking work that brings the application of GTO (Game Theory Optimal) strategies to the forefront of poker. With a strong focus on mathematical models, the book meticulously explains how modern players can apply game theory to make unexploitable decisions at the table. It covers a wide range of concepts from preflop ranges to postflop play, making it an essential guide for anyone looking to understand and apply the latest advances in poker strategy.

  • Pros
  • In-depth GTO strategy analysis.
  • Comprehensive range construction.
  • Detailed explanations with charts and examples.
  • Relevant for all skill levels.
  • Cons
  • Requires a solid mathematical understanding.
  • May be dense for casual players.

4.5

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Poker Autobiographies and Narratives

These books provide insights into the lives of professional players, mixing personal anecdotes with strategic advice.

Life Lessons Dealt

Ace on the River: An Advanced Poker Guide

2005, by Barry Greenstein


“Ace on the River” by Barry Greenstein is a groundbreaking poker book that transcends traditional strategy to explore the psychological, ethical, and personal growth aspects of the game. Published in 2005, it offers deep insights into becoming a successful professional player, emphasizing mental toughness, ethical play, and life balance. This guide is not just about playing cards; it’s about navigating life’s challenges with the wisdom gained from the poker table.

  • Pros
  • Psychological Depth
  • Life Skills
  • Charitable Perspective
  • Expert Guidance
  • Cons
  • Less Focus on Tactics
  • Complex Concepts

4.7

Overall rating

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
one of a kind stu ungar

One of a Kind: The Rise and Fall of Stuey ‘The Kid’ Ungar, The World’s Greatest Poker Player

2005, Nolan Dalla and Peter Alson


“One of a Kind” is a compelling biography of Stuey Ungar, a figure legendary for his unparalleled talent in poker and gin rummy, as well as his tragic struggle with addiction. Dalla and Alson provide an intimate look at Ungar’s life, from his meteoric rise in the gambling world to his untimely demise. Through interviews and personal anecdotes, the book paints a detailed portrait of Ungar’s genius at the tables and the demons that haunted him away from them, offering readers insight into the complex nature of high-stakes gambling and the costs of addiction.

  • Pros
  • Deeply personal and engaging narrative.
  • Insightful look into poker and gambling culture.
  • Highlights the highs and lows of a poker legend.
  • Richly detailed with interviews and anecdotes.
  • Cons
  • Focus on Ungar’s life limits broader poker strategy insights.
  • Some readers may find the story’s tragic elements overwhelming.

4.5

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Coup de coeur
the biggest bluff

The Biggest Bluff: How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win

2020, Maria Konnikova


“The Biggest Bluff” by Maria Konnikova is not just a poker book; it’s a profound exploration of the role of skill, luck, and human psychology in poker and life. With no prior poker experience, Konnikova sets out under the mentorship of poker legend Erik Seidel to master the game, documenting her journey from novice to champion. Through her eyes, readers gain insights into decision-making, the importance of observation, and the psychological resilience required in poker and everyday challenges. This book is a captivating narrative that blends personal growth with strategic poker play.

  • Pros
  • Engaging personal narrative.
  • Insightful psychological observations.
  • Useful strategies beyond poker.
  • Inspirational for newcomers and seasoned players alike.
  • Cons
  • Less focus on in-depth strategy.
  • Some poker players may seek more technical advice.

4.3

Note globale

Strategy

Application

Clarity

Honorable mentions