| Poker night is a national tradition. But the variations of poker most casual players know--filled with wild cards, penny-ante bets, and rules that change at the whim of the dealer--are a far cry from the games played by professionals. Thats unfortunate, because millions of intelligent players are needlessly missing out on the depth and sophistication of this uniquely American pastime. This practical, user-friendly guide makes the case for authentic poker, lays out the formal rules used in card rooms and high-stakes tournaments, and provides a primer on strategy that will equip you to become a winner at the real game. Contrary to popular belief, serious competitive poker isnt any less fun than homespun games; serious poker is more fun, and theres no reason you cant play it on your kitchen table over reasonable stakes. |