This is actually the first book on Hold’em that I have read. It is geared toward the beginner but, contains some intermediate and, advance theory as well. This book by the Poker Brat can give you some insight into the mind of one of the greatest Hold’em players of all time.
The first chapter deals with skill vs. luck and, the differences between the home game vs. pro play. He’s quick to point out that in a friendly home game the amount of money involved is nearly meaningless and, that bluffing in the home game is almost pointless since nearly everyone calls anything. The few extra dollars it takes to make a call at the home game is often worth the cost simply for the fun of chasing a pot in the hopes getting lucky. Where as at a casino if you sit at a table with a pro the average player will have no chance of winning over an eight hour period.
Chapter two deals with setup and, basic play. Things such as the role of the dealer, the button and, hole cards. Basic things that most players pick up before they ever sit down at their first Hold’em table. He also covers some things that all players should know but, often don’t. The advantages of position and, some poker etiquette such as not revealing your hand during play and, not acting out of turn. As well as the differences between limit Hold’em, no limit and, pot limit.
Chapter three: Even though the title of this chapter is Limit Hold’em for Beginners Strategy. It is one of the most interesting and, helpful chapters of the book. He discusses hand rankings the top 10 hands and, how to play certain hands in different situations. He also begins an overview of the animal types. Knowing whether your opponent is a Jackel, an Elephant, a Mouse, a Lion or, an Eagle will give you some clue as to what cards they are holding the strength of their hand and, how to play against them.
Chapters four and five discusses intermediate and, advanced theory. In chapter four Phil covers how to play majority hands such as 66,55,44,33,22. As well as Ax suited and KQ pre-flop. He covers smooth calling, protecting your hand with a raise, as well as folding and, playing marginal hands on the river.
Chapter five delves a little deeper into certain situations. How to play suited connectors, stealing from the blind stealers, firing up the table. As well as trapping with big hands pre-flop, the dangers of re-stealing and, the advantages of position in advanced play.
Chapter six offers some no limit and pot limit strategy. Here Mr. Hellmuth presents his fifteen top hands. Along with some beginner and, intermediate strategy such as how to trap with AA and, KK. Three theories on how to play pocket 2-2 through 8-8 and, AQ. This is also one of the more interesting chapters where Phil puts forward Huck Seed’s suited connector theory and, Dave “Devilfish” Ulliot’s NLH theory. Also how to guess your opponents hole cards and, developing your own style.
Chapter seven covers limit Hold’em tournament strategy, In chapter eight Phil offers his advice on internet play. Chapter Nine offers some advice to winning a multi table no limit tournament. Basically I think the jist of what he is trying to convey here is patience, patience, patience, and then begin to make some moves as you near the payoff and, many players are beginning to tighten up to make the money stealing some blinds and picking up enough to carry you to final table.
The remainder of the book is the appendix and a glossary. As I mentioned this is the first book on Hold’em that I have read. It has greatly improved my play and, I would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their game.
Book Review - Phil Hellmuth's Texas Hold'em
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