10 Best Poker Books to Master the Game

Every poker player needs some guidance, no question about it. Whether you’re after VIP tournaments or just trying to win a quick game with friends, it’s always smart to learn from players who know the game and have proven they can win.

Everyone could win a game or two, even without any knowledge or strategy, but If you want to do it game after game, you’ll need more than luck, and that’s why we’re talking about strategy books at first.

They can give you a look into how some of the best players in the game think, revealing their tactics and strategies within thousands of possible outcomes at the table.

Importance of Poker Strategy and Patient Play

Probability, reading opponents, and patience are considered the most important aspects of poker. Numerous top players, including Doyle Brunson and David Sklansky, shared their secrets and helped countless enthusiasts start making money.

In their words, besides the theoretical aspects of the game, you should also practice in real games, just to feel a little bit of fire – it only comes with big stakes.

If you’re looking for a safe place to practice, a no KYC (Know Your Customer) casino offers the best opportunity to use these strategies learned from such books and play anonymously in a trusted environment.

Poker tournaments are available for every skill level, so you can easily find your league and start playing right away, without verifying your identity, and go for big profits from day one.

But, besides more privacy, you can expect 200% match bonuses on deposits up to $7,500, free spins, and regular cashback deals to give you a power start. The game selection is huge – with over 3,000 games you’ll surely find something for your taste, whether you prefer classic Texas Hold’em, Omaha, or anything else.

And remember, the learning process has no end - the more you read, the better you’ll become.

The Theory of Poker by David Sklansky

This is considered a classic and the cornerstone of poker strategy since it introduces basic concepts, such as pot odds, bluffing techniques, and expected value. Originally published in 1978, this book is still considered to be relevant today.

Sklansky shows how to resolve different situations based on probabilities and player tendencies, just like you should – poker is a strategic game, and luck is important, but not decisive.

It’s a must-read for any serious poker player, years will pass, but some things will never change.

Super System by Doyle Brunson

Or "Bible of Poker" by Doyle Brunson, one of the most iconic players in poker history, and the book that changed the game with advanced strategies in No-Limit Texas Hold'em, Seven-Card Stud, and Omaha.

It connects the technical game strategies with the experience of renowned players such as Chip Reese, known for his analytical approach, and Mike Caro, a pioneer in poker psychology and strategy.

The bible of poker has carved many players for centuries now, and it surely will continue, it’s such a masterpiece. Doyle Brunson passed away in 2023 and is remembered for being the first player to win $1 million from poker.

Harrington on Hold’em by Dan Harrington

His work can prepare you for tournaments, especially if you’re going for big profits. The book breaks down complex strategies, with a focus on the later stages of a tournament, when it’s important not to lose.

And most importantly, it brings real examples, which can help you understand how to apply theoretical strategies during actual games.

Because of Harrington’s ability to bring such understandable answers, it remains one of the best-selling poker books ever, giving you countless reasons to read it.

Winning Low Limit Hold’em by Lee Jones

This is a fantastic starting point for beginners as it focuses on low-stakes games, breaking down concepts like hand selection and table position into simple, actionable advice. Lee Jones writes in a very friendly and conversational way that makes the book easy to follow for players new to competitive poker.

And therefore, he has switched focus to the fundamentals of the game so you can slowly move to higher stakes, without facing unwanted situations.

Hold'em Poker for Advanced Players by David Sklansky and Mason Malmuth

Advanced strategy topics such as semi-bluffing, implied odds, and reading opponents' tendencies are just some of the things discussed in this strategy guide. It brings more analysis, helping players to understand the 'why' that dictates strategic decisions.

Also, it can provide you with strategies to dominate Limit Hold’em. Sklansky and Malmuth go through many scenarios, from starting hand selection to complex post-flop play, giving you much more confidence to decide the tactic.

Every Hand Revealed by Gus Hansen

The book by Gus Hansen gives a rare look into tournament play from his unique perspective, analyzing hands down to minute details. His unconventional style, further sweetened by his willingness to explain himself, makes the book both a joy and relatable.

The book is ideal for any player looking to bring attacking poker to the table and go to the bone.

The Body Language of Poker by Mike Caro

Caro discusses the psychological aspects of live poker and focuses on reading physical tells and behavioral cues - it doesn't apply to online games but is a must-have when it comes to live tournaments and cash games.

He also explains how subtle changes in posture, facial expressions, and vocal inflections can reveal a player’s intentions. The book highlights the importance of observation, showing that understanding opponents is as critical as understanding your cards.

The Mathematics of Poker by Bill Chen and Jerrod Ankenman

One of the fundamentals, mathematical principles behind poker, covers probabilities, game theory, and expected values. Although highly technical, the content has given a huge advantage in understanding the mechanics of the game to those who already know the basics.

This is way more of a resource for poker players who enjoy breaking down poker into logical and quantifiable pieces - the strategies discussed are particularly appropriate for the higher-stakes games where every decision might mean a lot.

Poker Essays by Mason Malmuth

Malmuth’s collection of essays provides a mix of strategy and commentary on the broader poker environment.

Topics range from cardroom control to predictions about the game’s future, encouraging players to think critically and explore poker from multiple perspectives.

Many tactical insights from this book can boost your game to a whole new level, so it’s not a question should you read it, but when.

The Mental Game of Poker by Jared Tendler

Tendler’s work focuses on the psychological challenges players face, such as dealing with tilt and staying motivated. The book provides practical strategies to keep the emotional resilience and focus during high-stakes games, something every player needs to be reminded of from time to time.

Tendler tried to teach readers about the most discussed aspects of the game such as patience, fear, and overconfidence, because in the end, it always comes down to mental preparations - which can all work for you, or against you.