Greetings all, I'm generally a break even or slightly ahead blackjack player, but having encountered my first long losing streak recently on a cruise ship bj table I decided it was time to actually learn the numbers instead of playing by instinct. I ran to amazon and picked up the first two books in my reading list are Griffin's Theory of Blackjack which is supposedly a very in depth analysis of the math/probabilities involved in bj. Then Thorp's Beat the Dealer which is...apparently about how to win in a Casino. I've been reading around the boards and have seen Wong's Professional Blackjack book mentioned a number of times, so I'll put that on my list after these two. So, my question is -- what next? I could use some advice on direction for my reading, and reviews on the two I'm starting with would be helpful as well. --Thomas
On BJ Books The three books you choose may be a little advanced for you considering you are just starting to have a serious interest. BEAT THE DEALER was written, I believe, in the early 60's when single deck was the prominent game. It's the basis upon which all of todays strategies were eventually developed. It's information is definitely dated but is great for the purest. Personally, I would not bother at your level. The other two books may be a little advanced for you - but maybe not. My personal recommendation, although some may disagree, for getting started is "Blackjack For The Non Counter" by Avery Cardoza. It breaks down blackjack from the beginning and explains the reason behind many of the Basic Strategy plays. After you understand this book, you can go on to the more in depth studies of the game. Also, take a look at another thread in this FORUM: Main category = FREE FOR ALL thread = Good BJ Books???? (dated March, 2006)There you will find may good books and DanMayo created an excellent list. Good luck on your reading and play.
I'll keep in mind that the info in Beat the Dealer is a bit dated. I like math, I'm the sick minded type that actually liked my statistics class freshman year, which is what drew me to Theory of Blackjack. If it proves to be too far above me, I can always go back to it later. I'll check the other thread you mentioned as well. Thanks for the feedback.
Or go to.... Or go to this link http://www.blackjacktournaments.com/bb/showthread.php?t=1532 Or if you are really into the math history go to: http://www.bjmath.com/bjmath/basic/cantey.pdf to see the origin of Basic Strategy. Good Luck at the Tables, Dan
