As with any other topic, you can find countless books by several authors on the game of Blackjack. Some books may not be useful, but others can be trusted for providing Blackjack playing guides, betting systems, and gameplay tips. Having said that, here are the top five blackjack books you should read.
Blackjack Bluebook II by Fred Renzey
Authored by professional Blackjack player Fred Renzey, Blackjack Bluebook II is a handbook that explains some simple strategies to get an edge in the game of Blackjack. In Blackjack Bluebook II, readers can find a detailed guide on how to play the game of Blackjack. Additionally, it explains how to use the Blackjack’s basic strategy and lists all dealer rules.
Additionally, a section is dedicated to frequently misplayed hands by Blackjack players. A great thing about Blackjack Bluebook II is that it’s written in layman’s terms. So, even if you are a novice player or a complete beginner, you can easily play Blackjack after reading this book.
Sklansky Talks Blackjack by David Sklansky
If you enjoy playing Poker along with Blackjack, then you might be familiar with the name David Sklansky. But if you’re not, David Sklansky is a US-based professional poker player who has also authored several books and articles on Blackjack betting strategies.
Sklansky Talks Blackjack was first published more than two decades ago in 1999. But it continues to be popular among both land-based and online casino players as it includes a thorough analysis of every move that can be made in the game of Blackjack.
The book discusses Blackjack’s first principles and math, but it is written in an easy-to-understand language. So, whether you’re just getting started with Blackjack or have been playing the game for decades, you can get helpful insights on Blackjack hit and stand. In addition, you can also get other betting systems from the book.
The Theory of Blackjack by Peter A. Griffin
The book is subtitled: “The Complete Card Counter’s Guide to the Casino Game of 21”. As you’d guess, The Theory of Blackjack focuses on the fundamentals and the card counting strategies that can be used in the game. Then it proceeds to explain the essential nature of successful Blackjack players and the things that result in a loss in Blackjack.
Besides, the book explains how to play Blackjack effectively by following proper Blackjack etiquette and using a basic strategy. While the playing strategies mentioned in this book may not offer guaranteed wins, they can improve your winning chances if you use them properly.
Blackjack for Blood by Bryce Carlson
Authored by renowned Blackjack writer Bryce Carlson, Blackjack for Blood is the go-to option for anyone who wants to become a professional card counter. Also, no matter what your experience and Blackjack playing style are, you’ll find helpful insights in the book.
For card counters, the book details how to conceal their activity. While card counting may not be illegal in Blackjack, a land-based gambling venue can suspend your gameplay if you’re caught. When playing Blackjack at an online casino, you cannot count cards. As this is a virtual game, the outcome is determined by a random number generator.
Additionally, Blackjack for Blood also explains how you can improve your Blackjack gameplay. This includes tips on money management and how to reduce your losses in live Blackjack.
Beat the Dealer by Edward O. Thorp
Beat the Dealer is one of the best-selling books on Blackjack, having sold more than a million copies so far. Edward O. Thorp was known as the “Father of card counting” as an American mathematician and Blackjack researcher.
In Beat the Dealer, readers can find a thorough explanation of the Blackjack point system. And as you’d be knowing, it’s critical for both novice players and high rollers to know the point system. Along with that, the book has some helpful strategies to play different Blackjack variations.
Other helpful blackjack books listed
Besides these, some other good books on the game of Blackjack are:
- Playing Blackjack as a Business by Lawrence Revere
- Knock-Out Blackjack by Ken Fuchs and Olaf Vancura
- Winning Casino Blackjack for the Non-Counter by Avery Cardoza
- Blackjack Secrets by Stanford Wong
- Play Blackjack Like the Pros by Kevin Blackwood
- Advanced Advantage Play by Eliot Jacobson
- Burning the Tables in Las Vegas by Ian Andersen