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Howard Schwartz, the "librarian for gamblers," is the marketing director for Gambler's Book Club in Las Vegas, a position he has held since 1979. Author of hundreds of articles on gambling, his weekly book reviews appear in numerous publications throughout the gaming industry.

Aug 30, 2006

Learning a New Language

Let's face it. No matter how much poker you see on TV, no matter how much time you spend playing online, you are not going to get the full flavor of poker until you learn the language. Beginners who move from a home poker game to a casino or cardroom should learn to "talk the talk" and understand poker lingo around them. Understanding the peculiar language of poker -- much of which doesn't even relate to cards or chips -- will help the newcomer gain the confidence needed to overcome the noise, lights and flash of a fast-paced cardroom.

True, TV commentators often explain some of the language such as "pocket rockets" (aces) or "over the top" (to raise or re-raise) but it's questionable whether or not that quick info will transfer to real life.

So it is that these and other sometimes puzzling or unclear terms are explained in two new books, both of which could well also be helpful to new dealers. These books are Drawing Dead to a Gutshot: How to Talk Poker by Brant Janeway (127 pages, paperbound, $12.95) and Poker Talk: How to Talk Poker Like a Pro (303 pages, paperbound $9.95) and they explore a whole new world of language for poker players.

Either book would make a fine gift item for a friend, a relative or for grandma who is discovering her hidden talent for bluffing and especially for the significant other who has to attend and watch you play poker but doesn't know a thing about the game.

Any item reviewed here is available from Gambler's Book Shop (Gambler's Book Club). The store's web site is www.gamblersbook.com. You may order there using MasterCard, VISA or Discover (no CODs please) or by phoning the store any day except Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time at 1-800-522-1777. Orders usually shipped the next working day. The store, now in its 40th year, is located a mile from downtown Las Vegas, a block west of Maryland Parkway, just off Charleston Boulevard at South 11th Street. You may view the store's complete array of books, videos and software via the Web site or request a hard copy of the catalog be mailed free and first class. The store's address is 630 S. 11th St., Las Vegas, NV 89101.