21 Feb 2025 Beginner This material is for beginner players A-game mental game moving up stakes studying Before you start studying poker literature in depth, it is important to realize one thing: some poker books, especially those written many years ago, are not so relevant in today's reality. Fifteen years ago, for example, specific playing techniques, bet sizings, and other aspects were different. Poker does not stand still; the amount of information about the game is increasing, and accordingly, the skill level of players is rising. At the same time, the mechanics of the game, the rules of poker, and its essence have remained the same as they were originally. Therefore, books on poker are still useful, especially if the author introduces the reader to concepts such as proper table selection, bankroll management, working on psychology, and so on. In this article, we will talk about the best poker books that are still relevant in 2025. Andrew Seidman "Easy Game" Published: 2009 Best for: beginners Pages: 176 Buy: Amazon Now let’s review the first best poker book from today's top 10 list. In "Easy Game", Andrew Seidman breaks down the principles of No-Limit Hold’em for short-handed tables in a structured, two-step approach. The first step focuses on essential knowledge that can help you earn $100+ per hour in online or live poker sessions. The second step dives into more advanced concepts, explaining key strategic principles for higher-stakes games. Even if you consider yourself an experienced player, it’s best not to skip straight to the second part — taking the time to absorb the foundational lessons will benefit your long-term success. Remember, high-level poker isn’t just about luck; it’s the result of disciplined self-improvement and strategic thinking. Also read: Multiple Levels of Thinking in Poker Doyle Brunson "Super System" Published: 1978 Best for: players of any level Pages: 605 Buy: Amazon This is the true classic written by the living poker legend, Doyle "Texas Dolly" Brunson. Super System (original title: Super System: A Course in Power) is undoubtedly a "must-have" poker book for both professional poker players and beginners. Of course, for beginners, this book may seem challenging at first, but with time, you’ll get into the swing of things. And since it’s not too lengthy, it’s definitely worth completing. In Super System, Brunson shares his first experiences and reveals effective tactics. Interestingly, despite being published back in 1978, its strategies and techniques remain relevant even today. In addition to theoretical knowledge, it includes an autobiographical sketch of Brunson’s life, making the book an engaging read. Ed Miller "Getting Started in Hold’em" Published: 2005 Best for: beginners Pages: 120 Buy: Amazon "Getting Started in Hold’em: Small Stakes Poker Games" by Ed Miller is an ideal guide for novice poker players. As an expert in Limit Hold'em, Miller covers a broad range of poker meanings and interesting facts in his book. The strategies and techniques presented in this top book on poker remain valuable even today. However, as mentioned, this book is not for advanced players — it’s designed for those just starting out and looking to build a solid foundation. This 2005 edition focuses entirely on Texas Hold’em, the most popular form of poker. The book helps beginners understand the intricacies and pitfalls of both No-Limit and Limit Hold’em. If you have big ambitions and plans for poker, "Getting Started in Hold’em" is definitely worth a read. Phil Gordon "Little Green Book" Published: 2005 Best for: beginners Pages: 177 Buy: Amazon As the title suggests, this is a compact poker book for beginners — one that covers the rules and fundamentals of No-Limit Hold’em. However, that’s not the main reason we recommend it. "Little Green Book: Lessons and Teachings in No Limit Hold'em" is written in a conversational style, making it an easy and engaging read. That said, don’t rush through it — take your time and absorb the lessons carefully. This book is a true goldmine for anyone just beginning their poker journey. Phil Gordon breaks down key poker concepts and explains how to approach each betting round effectively. You’ll also find insightful discussions on poker tells, mathematical principles, and proven tournament strategies. One of its standout sections is the discussion of five fundamental qualities shared by all great poker pros — principles that form the foundation of modern poker. And that’s just a fraction of what this little guide has to offer. So don’t waste another minute — start reading! Chris Moorman "Moorman’s Book of Poker" Published: 2015 Best for: micro & low-stakes players Pages: 326 Buy: Amazon At first glance, the title of another best book on poker from today's rankings, written by one of the greatest online poker players of our time, might seem simple. But inside, it’s packed with valuable and insightful content. "Moorman’s Book of Poker" is ideal for players who already understand the game’s rules and basic strategies. Unfortunately, it’s not beginner-friendly, as it requires deep analysis of complex hands and in-game scenarios. This top poker book was co-written by Chris Moorman and Byron Jacobs — a bank manager and skilled poker player in his own right. Most of the content consists of hand analyses from online games played on PokerStars, structured in three steps: A general overview of the hand. Jacobs' reasoning for his decisions. Moorman’s analysis — his verdict on whether Jacobs played optimally and how the hand could have been played better. This format allows readers to examine each situation from multiple perspectives, providing a deeper understanding of hand analysis, mistakes, and strategic adjustments. For example, a hand may initially seem well-played, but Moorman’s insights often reveal ways to improve the decision-making process and maximize winnings. Beyond that, the book covers: How to accurately read opponents’ hand ranges. Strategies for analyzing complex situations. Improved betting decisions across all streets. Bluff detection and advanced techniques. In one of the greatest pokerbooks in history Chris and Byron also draw parallels between poker and chess, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and thinking ahead. John Enholt "Decide to Play Perfect Poker" Published: 2004 Best for: low/micro-limit players Pages: 139 Buy: Amazon "Decide to Play Great Poker: A Strategy Guide to No-Limit Texas Hold'em" is praised by many poker pros for its straightforward and concise approach. This book doesn’t waste time with unnecessary filler. John Enholt delivers the material compactly, helping players find their own playing style rather than imposing his. With this guide, you’ll be able to: Identify your individual playing style/psychotype. Set goals correctly. Analyze your game effectively. Make good use of notes. Overcome tilt. The poker strategy book aims to help players not only refine their strategies but also develop as professional poker players. Enholt calls it a "brief guide" to the world of poker. However, even after reading "Decide to Play Perfect Poker", remember that consistent self-improvement is key to achieving high results, which is the central message of the book. David Sklansky "The Theory of Poker" Published: 2005 Best for: low/medium/high-limit players Pages: 145 Buy: Amazon The book "Theory of Poker: A Professional Poker Player Teaches You How To Think Like One" by David Sklansky is aimed at experienced players who have been playing online poker for some time and wish to take their skills to the next level. While the book focuses on theory, it also delves into poker mathematics and psychology. Sklansky’s main goal is to help players move away from relying on luck and become true professionals who base their decisions purely on experience. This poker theory book contains 25 chapters, filled with clear examples to help readers better understand the material. Once you've read it, we recommend putting the theories into practice. Tommy Angelo "Elements of Poker" Published: 2008 Best for: for beginners Pages: 223 Buy: Amazon "Elements of Poker" is not just an instructional poker for beginners book, but also somewhat autobiographical. In the introduction, Tommy Angelo shares the backstory behind writing the book and what readers can expect. From the very beginning, it's clear that this is a unique poker resource, and the simple, organized structure makes it easy for even beginners to understand. The book is filled with interesting life stories from Angelo’s poker career and is an enjoyable read. According to Angelo, to succeed in poker, a player should: Master poker hands and combinations. Understand the value of winning hands. Combat tilt and tough periods in the game. Have strong bankroll management skills. Know the optimal number of cards needed for combinations. Evaluate pot odds against the strength of each hand. Observe opponents to identify their strengths and weaknesses. A notable feature of the book is that Angelo has dedicated small sections to almost every aspect of poker. The book includes life stories, examples, illustrations, tables, and diagrams, which help in better understanding the concepts. "Elements of Poker" has received many positive reviews from players, and if you're serious about improving your poker game, this book is definitely worth downloading. Barry Greenstein "Ace on the River" Published: 2004 Best for: regular low/medium-limit players Pages: 82 Buy: Amazon "Ace on the River" is another one of the greatest classic books about poker. In 2004, during the WPT final table, an ace on the river resulted in a full house, and for the first time in the history of the series, two players were eliminated at once. This sensational event led to the publication of Barry Greenstein’s "Ace on the River" (original title: "Ace on the River: An Advanced Poker Guide"). Unlike many other poker books, Greenstein's work offers an authentic look at the life of a poker pro, from his own perspective. The book contains only a small amount of technical theory and basic poker strategies. Its main aim is to show the immense opportunities that poker can offer to anyone willing to take it seriously. Greenstein uses real-life examples from his high-roller career, including amusing anecdotes, as he discusses his journey to becoming a pro. He talks about various aspects of the poker world, etiquette, and more. Peter Arnold "How to Play Poker" Published: 2009 Best for: beginners Pages: 176 Buy: Amazon "How to Play Poker" (original title: "How to Play Poker: And Other Gambling Games") is that it doesn't just give a dry rundown of poker rules, but illustrates everything with real examples. This how to play poker book is not just a boring guide to poker rules; Peter Arnold explains everything in simple terms, making even the nuances of the game clear to readers within seconds. Arnold himself went through a long journey to become a poker pro and is now a successful figure to whom beginners can look up. He doesn’t aim to make you think about big money right from the start. First and foremost, according to him, you need to understand the flow of the game, develop the right mindset, sharpen your skills, and consistently practice with stronger opponents. Only then will success — and the financial rewards that come with it — follow. As we see, the best books on poker are just a great resource for learning poker, but they only go so far. If you want to put your knowledge into action and take your game to the next level, visit Getcoach. We’ve got poker articles covering all sorts of poker topics, from strategy tips to insights on the mental game. And if you’re serious about improving, we offer personalized poker coaching with experts who can guide you, help you work through tough spots, and make sure you’re playing at your best. You can get direct feedback, strategies, and advice tailored just for you. Ready to really improve? Check out our website and start learning today.
