Mastery Library

BEST 49 POKER BOOKS
of 2026

Dive into the top poker books of 2026. Handpicked for their insights and strategies, these books are a must-read for any enthusiast looking to up their game.

Poker Books Illustration

Top Poker Books

Excelling At No-Limit Hold’em

Excelling At No-Limit Hold’em

"Jonathan Little's Excelling at No-Limit Hold'em": A Masterclass in Advanced Poker Techniques

Author: Jonathan Little
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jonathan Little's Excelling at No-Limit Hold'em Cover

Overview

"Jonathan Little's Excelling at No-Limit Hold'em" is more than just a poker book; it's a treasure trove of advanced strategies and insight...

Poker Workbook: Math & Preflop

Poker Workbook: Math & Preflop

"Poker Workbook: Math & Preflop: Learn & Practice +EV Skills Between Sessions" by James Sweeney: A Modern Approach to Preflop Mastery

Author: James Sweeney
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poker Workbook: Math & Preflop Cover

Introduction

Alright, poker enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a journey into the realm of math and preflop strategies. James ...

Play Optimal Poker

Play Optimal Poker

"Play Optimal Poker: Practical Game Theory for Every Poker Player" by Andrew Brokos

Author: Andrew Brokos
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Play Optimal Poker Cover

A Bridge to Advanced Play, or a Toy Game Overload?

Andrew Brokos' Play Optimal Poker attempts to bridge the gap between recreational poker and the intricate world of game theory optimal...

Small Stakes Poker Cash Games

Small Stakes Poker Cash Games

"Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Cash Games" by Jonathan Little: A No-Nonsense Guide for Aspiring Poker Sharks

Author: Jonathan Little
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker Cash Games Cover

A New Era in Poker Education

Let's cut to the chase. Jonathan Little's "Strategies for Beating Small Stakes Poker C...

Every Hand Revealed

Every Hand Revealed

"Every Hand Revealed" by Gus Hansen: A Riveting Journey through Poker Strategy

Author: Gus Hansen
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Every Hand Revealed Cover

A Deep Dive into the Mind of a Poker Maverick

Gus Hansen, known for his unorthodox and aggressive playing style, pulls back the curtain on his thought process in "Every Hand Revealed". T...

Harrington On Hold’em Vol. 1: Strategic Play

Harrington On Hold’em Vol. 1: Strategic Play

"Harrington on Hold 'em Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 1: Strategic Play" by Dan Harrington

Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Harrington on Hold 'em Cover

A Masterclass in No Limit Hold'em

Dan Harrington's "Harrington on Hold 'em Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 1: Strategic Play" is not just a...

Essential Poker Math, Expanded Edition

Essential Poker Math, Expanded Edition

"Essential Poker Math, Expanded Edition: Fundamental No-Limit Hold'em Mathematics You Need to Know" by Alton Hardin

Author: Alton Hardin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Essential Poker Math, Expanded Edition Cover

A Gateway to Poker Wizardry

"Essential Poker Math, Expanded Edition" is more than just a book; it's a passport to mastering the mathem...

The Course

The Course

"The Course: Serious Hold 'Em Strategy For Smart Players" by Ed Miller: A Game-Changer for Poker Enthusiasts

Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Course: Serious Hold 'Em Strategy For Smart Players Cover

Opening Hand: A First Impression

At first glance, Ed Miller's "The Course" might seem like just another poker strategy book. B...

A Fishy Poker Tournament

A Fishy Poker Tournament

"A Fishy Poker Tournament" by Tyler Nals: Bluffing Its Way to Your Heart

Author: Tyler Nals
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
A Fishy Poker Tournament Cover

An Unexpected Journey through the Felt

Tyler Nals' "A Fishy Poker Tournament" isn't your typical poker strategy book. Think of it as sitting down for a game, expecting a straight flush, but g...

Modern Poker Theory

Modern Poker Theory

"Modern Poker Theory: Building an unbeatable strategy based on GTO principles" by Michael Acevedo

Author: Michael Acevedo
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Modern Poker Theory Cover

Introduction

Hold on to your chips, folks! We're diving into the world of GTO (Game Theory Optimal) poker with Michael Acevedo's "Modern Poker Theory." Is it the Holy Grai...

Doyle Brunson’s Super System

Doyle Brunson’s Super System

"Doyle Brunson's Super System": A Masterclass in Poker Strategy

Author: Doyle 'Texas Dolly' Brunson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Doyle Brunson's Super System Cover

The Godfather of Poker Books

Doyle Brunson's Super System is not just a book; it's a poker institution. Dubbed as the Bible of Poker, this masterpiece is more than just a strateg...

Check-Raising the Devil

Check-Raising the Devil

"Mike Matusow: Check-Raising the Devil" - A Poker Legend's Wild Journey

Author: Mike Matusow
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Mike Matusow: Check-Raising the Devil Cover

The Man Behind The Mouth

"Mike Matusow: Check-Raising the Devil" is not just a book about poker; it's a rollercoaster ride through the life of one of poker's most colorful characters...

Purposeful Practice for Poker

Purposeful Practice for Poker

"Purposeful Practice for Poker: The Modern Approach to Studying Poker" by Dr. Patricia Cardner

Author: Dr. Patricia Cardner
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Purposeful Practice for Poker Cover

The Essence of Poker Learning

Let's cut to the chase: poker isn't just about holding the best cards; it's a game of mind and strategy. This is where Dr. Pa...

Reading Poker Tells

Reading Poker Tells

"Reading Poker Tells" by Zachary Elwood: Unveiling the Mask of Poker Faces

Author: Zachary Elwood
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Reading Poker Tells Cover

Introduction: Unearthing the Secrets of Poker Tells

"Reading Poker Tells" by Zachary Elwood is a fascinating journey into the intricate world of poker psychology. With a 4.4 average rating...

Real Grinders

Real Grinders

"Real Grinders: How to Play Poker for a Living (Poker Books for Smart Players)" by Ashton Cartwright

Author: Ashton Cartwright
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Real Grinders Book Cover

Overview

Ashton Cartwright's "Real Grinders" tackles the elusive dream of playing poker for a living. With a modest average rating of 3.2, it's clear that readers...

Harrington on Hold ’em Vol. 2: Endgame

Harrington on Hold ’em Vol. 2: Endgame

"Harrington on Hold 'em Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 2: Endgame" by Dan Harrington

Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Harrington on Hold 'em Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 2: Endgame Cover

The Masterclass for Poker Enthusiasts

Let's cut to the chase: "Harrington on Hold 'em Vol. 2" is not ju...

Bluffs

Bluffs

"Bluffs: How to Intelligently Apply Aggression to Increase Your Profits from Poker" by Jonathan Little

Author: Jonathan Little
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Bluffs Book Cover

The Art of Bluffing - Decoded

Let's cut to the chase - we all know bluffing is an art form in poker, but Jonathan Little's "Bluffs" takes it to a scholarly level. If yo...

Power Hold’em Strategy

Power Hold’em Strategy

"Power Hold'em Strategy" by Daniel Negreanu: Mastering the Art of 'Small Ball'

Author: Daniel Negreanu
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Power Hold'em Strategy Cover

Introduction

Hold on to your chips, folks! I've just finished reading Daniel Negreanu's Power Hold'em Strategy, and let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster ride of poker wisdom. With an a...

Mastering Poker Math

Mastering Poker Math

"Mastering Poker Math: Become a Feared Shark in Texas No-Limit Hold'em" by Chuck Clayton

Author: Chuck Clayton
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Mastering Poker Math Cover

Introduction: A Mathematical Dive into Poker

Let's be clear: poker is not just about luck. It's a game of skill, strategy, and, yes, math. In "Mastering Poker Math," Chuck Clayt...

Winning Low-Limit Hold’em

Winning Low-Limit Hold’em

"Winning Low-Limit Hold'em" by Lee Jones: The Low-Stakes Bible?

Author: Lee Jones
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

Winning Low-Limit Hold'em Cover

Introduction

"Winning Low-Limit Hold'em" by Lee Jones is like the poker playbook for anyone looking to dominate their Friday night poker game or the local casino scene. With a solid 4.5-star average f...

Seat Open

Seat Open

"Seat Open: A Memoir of Poker, Degeneracy, and Friendship" by Blockhead: A Deep Dive into the Poker World

Author: Blockhead
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Seat Open: A Memoir of Poker, Degeneracy, and Friendship Cover

The Gist of the Game

"Seat Open" isn't your average poker strategy book. It's a tale from the felt, dealing out a mix of personal...

Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2

Doyle Brunson’s Super System 2

"Doyle Brunson's Super System 2: A Course in Power Poker" - A Legend's Legacy in Poker Literature

Author: Doyle Brunson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Doyle Brunson's Super System 2 Cover

A Poker Player's Pilgrimage

Doyle Brunson's Super System 2 is not just a book; it's a journey into the minds of poker's finest. With a whopping **4.5 averag...

Poker Brat

Poker Brat

"Poker Brat: Phil Hellmuth's Autobiography" - A Roller Coaster of Egos and Insights

Author: Phil Hellmuth
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poker Brat Cover

A Peek Into the Mind of a Poker Legend

Let's dive into the world of Phil Hellmuth, a poker icon known for his brilliant plays and equally brilliant tantrums. "Poker Brat" is not your run-of-the...

Master Micro Stakes Poker

Master Micro Stakes Poker

"Master Micro Stakes Poker: Learn to Master 6-Max No Limit Hold'em Micro Stakes Cash Games" by Alton Hardin

Author: Alton Hardin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Master Micro Stakes Poker Cover

Introduction

Ah, the world of micro stakes poker, where the promise of transforming from a hopeful novice to a feared table shark is as alluring as a roya...

The Theory Of Poker

The Theory Of Poker

"The Theory of Poker: A Professional Poker Player Teaches You How To Think Like One" by David Sklansky

Author: David Sklansky
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
The Theory of Poker Cover

A Classic, But Not For Rookies

Let's cut to the chase: Sklansky's "The Theory of Poker" isn't your grandma's bedtime story. It's more like a college textbook that for...

No-Limit Hold’em For Advanced Players

No-Limit Hold’em For Advanced Players

"No-Limit Hold 'em For Advanced Players: Emphasis on Tough Games" by Matthew Janda

Author: Matthew Janda
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
No-Limit Hold 'em For Advanced Players Cover

A Deep Dive into High-Stakes Strategy

Matthew Janda, known for his deep strategic insights, doesn't disappoint in "No-Limit Hold 'em For Advanced Players." This bo...

How To Study Poker: Vol 1

How To Study Poker: Vol 1

"How To Study Poker: Volume 1: Techniques For Making You A Better Player Today Than You Were Yesterday" by Sky Matsuhashi

Author: Sky Matsuhashi
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
How To Study Poker Cover

The Poker Player's Roadmap to Success

As someone who's sifted through a mountain of poker books, I approached "How To Study Poker: Volume 1" with a ...

Poker: Everything You Need To Know About Poker From Beginner To Expert

Poker: Everything You Need To Know About Poker From Beginner To Expert

"Poker: Everything You Need To Know About Poker From Beginner To Expert" by Ian Dunross: A Rollercoaster Ride through Poker

Author: Ian Dunross
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poker: Everything You Need To Know About Poker From Beginner To Expert Cover

A Beginner's Dream or a Nightmare in Disguise?

**"Poker: Everything You Need To Know About Poker F...

One of a Kind

One of a Kind

"One of a Kind: The Rise and Fall of Stuey 'The Kid' Ungar, The World's Greatest Poker Player" by Nolan Dalla

Author: Nolan Dalla
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
One of a Kind Book Cover

A Riveting Roller-Coaster Ride Through a Poker Legend's Life

The Essence: "One of a Kind" isn't just another poker book; it's a deep dive into the tumultuous ...

Small Stakes Hold ’em

Small Stakes Hold ’em

"Small Stakes Hold 'em: Winning Big with Expert Play" by Ed Miller

Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Small Stakes Hold 'em Cover

The Good, the Bad, and the Poker Face

Whoever said "Don't judge a book by its cover" clearly hadn't seen the cover of Ed Miller's Small Stakes Hold 'em. It's as intriguing as a royal flush. But let's div...

Poker’s 1%

Poker’s 1%

"Poker's 1%: The One Big Secret That Keeps Elite Players On Top" by Ed Miller

Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poker's 1% Cover

Introduction

"Poker's 1%," authored by Ed Miller, dives deep into the secrets of elite poker players. With a lofty average rating of 4.6, it's clearly more than just another poker book. Let's shuffle thro...

The Mental Game Of Poker 2

The Mental Game Of Poker 2

"The Mental Game of Poker 2" by Jared Tendler: Mastering the Mind for Poker Success

Author: Jared Tendler
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Mental Game of Poker 2 Cover

Introduction

At first glance, you might think "The Mental Game of Poker 2" is just another one of those self-help books masquerading as a poker guide. But hold your horses! This bo...

Bluff

Bluff

"Bluff: A Noir Crime Thriller" by Jane Stanton Hitchcock: A Riveting Tale of High-Stakes Deception

Author: Jane Stanton Hitchcock
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Bluff Book Cover

Overview

"Bluff" is not your typical poker book. It's a noir crime thriller that brings the high-stakes world of poker to life in a narrative that's as much about bluffing ...

The Habits of Winning Poker Players

The Habits of Winning Poker Players

"The Habits of Winning Poker Players (Poker Books for Smart Players)" by Ashton Cartwright: A Player's Insight

Author: Ashton Cartwright
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
The Habits of Winning Poker Players Cover

The Beginner's Gateway or a Pro's Disappointment?

As a seasoned poker player and avid reader, I dove into Ashton Cartwright's **"The Habits o...

The Myth of Poker Talent

The Myth of Poker Talent

"The Myth of Poker Talent: Why Anyone Can Be a Great Poker Player" by Alexander Fitzgerald

Author: Alexander Fitzgerald
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The Myth of Poker Talent Cover

A Fresh Perspective on Poker Mastery

Ever wondered if you have what it takes to be a poker pro? Alexander Fitzgerald's "The Myth of Poker Talent" might just be the *nu...

Playing The Player

Playing The Player

"Playing The Player: Moving Beyond ABC Poker To Dominate Your Opponents" by Ed Miller

Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Playing The Player Cover

Introduction

"Playing The Player" isn't your run-of-the-mill poker strategy guide. It's Ed Miller's magnum opus on exploiting your opponents' weaknesses. With an average rating of 4.6 fr...

Caro’s Book of Poker Tells

Caro’s Book of Poker Tells

"Caro's Book of Poker Tells: The Psychology and Body Language of Poker" by Mike Caro

Author: Mike Caro
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Caro's Book of Poker Tells Cover

A Masterclass in Reading the Table

Mike Caro, often dubbed as the Mad Genius of Poker, brings us a tantalizing exploration of poker tells in his book, "Caro's Book of Poker Tel...

The Grinder’s Manual

The Grinder’s Manual

"The Grinder's Manual: A Complete Course in Online No Limit Holdem 6-Max Cash Games" by Peter Clarke: The Ultimate Guide for Aspiring Poker Sharks

Author: Peter Clarke
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Grinder's Manual Cover

Overview

Let's cut to the chase: "The Grinder's Manual" is not your average poker book. It's a deep dive into the w...

Essential Poker Math

Essential Poker Math

"Essential Poker Math: Fundamental No Limit Hold'em Mathematics You Need To Know" by Alton Hardin

Author: Alton Hardin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Essential Poker Math Cover

The Poker Player's Bible: A Blend of Math and Strategy

The Backbone: Mathematical Mastery

In a world where intuition often takes the front seat, Alton Hardin's ...

Scoop!

Scoop!

"Scoop!: Big O and PLO8: Winning High Low Concepts for the Hold'em Mind" by Greg Vail: A Game-Changer or a Flop?

Author: Greg Vail
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Scoop! Book Cover

The Big Scoop on "Scoop!"

In the world of poker books, "Scoop!: Big O and PLO8" by Greg Vail promises a revolutionary take on mastering high-low concepts tailored fo...

Sit ‘N Go Strategy

Sit ‘N Go Strategy

"Sit 'n Go Strategy: Expert Advice for Beating One-Table Poker Tournaments" by Collin Moshman

Author: Collin Moshman
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Sit 'n Go Strategy Cover

The Good, The Bad, and The Poker Face

Ah, the thrill of the game! "Sit 'n Go Strategy" promises to elevate your poker prowess from fish-level to shark in the vast ocean of one-...

Kill Everyone

Kill Everyone

"Kill Everyone: Advanced Strategies for No-Limit Hold 'em Poker Tournaments and Sit-n-Go's" by Lee Nelson: The Poker Player's Bible or Just Another Strategy Guide?

Author: Lee Nelson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Kill Everyone Book Cover

A Fresh Take or Recycled Tips? Let's Dive In!

You've probably stumbled upon Lee Nelson's "Kill Everyone" wh...

Molly’s Game

Molly’s Game

"Molly's Game: The True Story of the 26-Year-Old Woman Behind the Most Exclusive, High-Stakes Underground Poker Game in the World" by Molly Bloom

Author: Molly Bloom
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Molly's Game Cover

A High-Stakes Narrative with a Twist of Fate

Molly's Game, penned by Molly Bloom herself, is not your typical poker tale. This bo...

Harrington on Hold ’em Vol. 3: The Workbook

Harrington on Hold ’em Vol. 3: The Workbook

"Harrington on Hold 'Em: the Workbook: Expert Strategy for No-Limit Tournaments" by Dan Harrington

Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Harrington on Hold 'Em Cover

The Good, the Bad, and the Poker-Faced

Harrington's guide—is it the Holy Grail of poker strategies or just another card up the sleeve? With a staggering **4.6 aver...

Poker Notes

Poker Notes

"Poker Notes" by Tyler Nals: A Poker Player's Handbook

Author: Tyler Nals
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Poker Notes Cover

A Quick Peek into the World of Poker

Tyler Nals' "Poker Notes" isn't just a book; it's a journey into the minds of poker players. With entertaining anecdotes and strategic insights, this book offers a fresh perspective o...

The Mental Game Of Poker

The Mental Game Of Poker

"The Mental Game of Poker: Proven Strategies for Improving Tilt Control, Confidence, Motivation, Coping with Variance, and More" by Jared Tendler

Author: Jared Tendler
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Mental Game of Poker Cover

A Mental Marathon, Not a Sprint

Let's cut to the chase: Jared Tendler's "The Mental Game of Poker" isn't your typical po...

Phil Gordon’s Little Green Book

Phil Gordon’s Little Green Book

"Phil Gordon's Little Green Book: Lessons and Teachings in No Limit Texas Hold'em" – A Poker Player's Delight

Author: Phil Gordon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Phil Gordon's Little Green Book Cover


Introduction: A No-Nonsense Guide to Winning Big

"Phil Gordon's Little Green Book" is like a poker bible for those aspiring to graduate from ...

Life’s a Gamble

Life’s a Gamble

"Life's a Gamble" by Mike Sexton: A High-Stakes Journey Through Poker and Life

Author: Mike Sexton
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Life's a Gamble Cover

Overview: The Man Behind the Cards

"Life's a Gamble" is more than just a book; it's a journey through the high-stakes world of poker, narrated by none other than the legend himself, Mike Sexton...

Decide to Play Great Poker

Decide to Play Great Poker

"Decide to Play Great Poker: A Strategy Guide to No-Limit Texas Hold Em" by Annie Duke and John Vorhaus

Author: Annie Duke and John Vorhaus
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Decide to Play Great Poker Cover

A Fresh Approach to Texas Hold Em

Let's get this straight: if you're expecting another run-of-the-mill poker guide with standard play-by-numb...