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.

Top Poker Books

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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Learn & Practice +EV Skills Between Sessions" by James Sweeney: A Modern Approach to Preflop Mastery
Author: James Sweeney
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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

Play Optimal Poker
"Play Optimal Poker: Practical Game Theory for Every Poker Player" by Andrew Brokos
Author: Andrew Brokos
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

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" by Gus Hansen: A Riveting Journey through Poker Strategy
Author: Gus Hansen
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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 Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 1: Strategic Play" by Dan Harrington
Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Fundamental No-Limit Hold'em Mathematics You Need to Know" by Alton Hardin
Author: Alton Hardin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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

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" by Tyler Nals: Bluffing Its Way to Your Heart
Author: Tyler Nals
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: Building an unbeatable strategy based on GTO principles" by Michael Acevedo
Author: Michael Acevedo
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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": A Masterclass in Poker Strategy
Author: Doyle 'Texas Dolly' Brunson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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
"Mike Matusow: Check-Raising the Devil" - A Poker Legend's Wild Journey
Author: Mike Matusow
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: The Modern Approach to Studying Poker" by Dr. Patricia Cardner
Author: Dr. Patricia Cardner
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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" by Zachary Elwood: Unveiling the Mask of Poker Faces
Author: Zachary Elwood
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: How to Play Poker for a Living (Poker Books for Smart Players)" by Ashton Cartwright
Author: Ashton Cartwright
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

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 Expert Strategy for No Limit Tournaments, Vol. 2: Endgame" by Dan Harrington
Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Masterclass for Poker Enthusiasts
Let's cut to the chase: "Harrington on Hold 'em Vol. 2" is not ju...

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

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" by Daniel Negreanu: Mastering the Art of 'Small Ball'
Author: Daniel Negreanu
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Become a Feared Shark in Texas No-Limit Hold'em" by Chuck Clayton
Author: Chuck Clayton
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

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" by Lee Jones: The Low-Stakes Bible?
Author: Lee Jones
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: A Memoir of Poker, Degeneracy, and Friendship" by Blockhead: A Deep Dive into the Poker World
Author: Blockhead
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨

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: A Course in Power Poker" - A Legend's Legacy in Poker Literature
Author: Doyle Brunson
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: Phil Hellmuth's Autobiography" - A Roller Coaster of Egos and Insights
Author: Phil Hellmuth
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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

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: A Professional Poker Player Teaches You How To Think Like One" by David Sklansky
Author: David Sklansky
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: Emphasis on Tough Games" by Matthew Janda
Author: Matthew Janda
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Volume 1: Techniques For Making You A Better Player Today Than You Were Yesterday" by Sky Matsuhashi
Author: Sky Matsuhashi
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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" by Ian Dunross: A Rollercoaster Ride through Poker
Author: Ian Dunross
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: The Rise and Fall of Stuey 'The Kid' Ungar, The World's Greatest Poker Player" by Nolan Dalla
Author: Nolan Dalla
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Winning Big with Expert Play" by Ed Miller
Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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%: The One Big Secret That Keeps Elite Players On Top" by Ed Miller
Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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" by Jared Tendler: Mastering the Mind for Poker Success
Author: Jared Tendler
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: A Noir Crime Thriller" by Jane Stanton Hitchcock: A Riveting Tale of High-Stakes Deception
Author: Jane Stanton Hitchcock
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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 (Poker Books for Smart Players)" by Ashton Cartwright: A Player's Insight
Author: Ashton Cartwright
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½

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: Why Anyone Can Be a Great Poker Player" by Alexander Fitzgerald
Author: Alexander Fitzgerald
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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: Moving Beyond ABC Poker To Dominate Your Opponents" by Ed Miller
Author: Ed Miller
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: The Psychology and Body Language of Poker" by Mike Caro
Author: Mike Caro
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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: 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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Fundamental No Limit Hold'em Mathematics You Need To Know" by Alton Hardin
Author: Alton Hardin
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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!: 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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Expert Advice for Beating One-Table Poker Tournaments" by Collin Moshman
Author: Collin Moshman
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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: 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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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: 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: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

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: the Workbook: Expert Strategy for No-Limit Tournaments" by Dan Harrington
Author: Dan Harrington
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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" by Tyler Nals: A Poker Player's Handbook
Author: Tyler Nals
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Proven Strategies for Improving Tilt Control, Confidence, Motivation, Coping with Variance, and More" by Jared Tendler
Author: Jared Tendler
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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: Lessons and Teachings in No Limit Texas Hold'em" – A Poker Player's Delight
Author: Phil Gordon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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" by Mike Sexton: A High-Stakes Journey Through Poker and Life
Author: Mike Sexton
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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: A Strategy Guide to No-Limit Texas Hold Em" by Annie Duke and John Vorhaus
Author: Annie Duke and John Vorhaus
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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...
