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Reading list
The best poker books
The books worth your time, from the classics every player should know to modern game theory and the mental game.
Where to start: new to poker? Read Play Optimal Poker or Harrington on Hold'em first. Already winning? Go to Modern Poker Theory. Struggling with tilt? The Mental Game of Poker.
Our picks
The classic that changed poker. A piece of history from one of the game's legends, with chapters by top players of the era.
The fundamentals behind every good decision: pot odds, the value of deception and the Fundamental Theorem of Poker.
A step-by-step tournament manual from a Main Event champion. Still a great foundation for tournament players.
A bridge into game-theory thinking for no-limit players who want a balanced strategy.
Solver-era strategy explained for tournament and cash players. Dense, but the reference for modern play.
Game theory made approachable, with clear examples. A great first step before heavier theory books.
Tilt, fear, confidence and motivation. Fixing your mental game often saves more money than any strategy book.
How to make better decisions when you don't have all the facts. Useful at the table and away from it.
A psychologist learns poker from Erik Seidel and ends up winning a major title. A great read for any player.
How to study with books
- One book at a time. Read a chapter, then play and look for those spots at the table.
- Take notes. Write down the hands that confused you and look for answers in your reading.
- Mix theory and mindset. A strategy book plus a mental-game book is a strong combination.
New to the game? Start with our free guide on how to play Texas Hold'em.
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