Issue 117
December 9-15, 2002
Volume 3
page 3
 

Holden’s Big Deal Back in Print
By Howard Schwartz

One of the all-time, most-sought-after, out-of-print poker books of the past 20 years has re-emerged at Gambler’s Book Shop. Anthony Holden’s Big Deal, published originally in 1990 now published again in 2002 (384 pages, paperbound, $15), was so sought after in recent years, buyers were offering more than $50 for a used copy. The author has style and an eye for detail and the ability to remember colorful quotes and the mind set of world- class poker players, in Las Vegas and elsewhere. So it is that players from the novice to the pro enjoyed his original work and continued over the years to recommend it.

Holden, a British Royal family biographer with wit, sharp observational skills (including his own at the poker tables of places like Malta and Morocco), not only gained the trust of world-class poker players like Amarillo Slim Preston (not that Slim has ever been at a loss for words), but also is able to describe the glitz and glitter of every classy casino and card room he plays in. He brings you right to his table, some of which are in some of the most respected carpet joints on three continents. He lets you see his bankroll as it grows and dwindles; he lets you hear his sighs of relief. He lets you feel what it’s like to make a big bet or face a big one? You can almost feel his hands sweat while he tries to figure the odds—call, raise or fold?

Holden is able to describe how the world class “survivors,” have, over the years developed skills the books can’t teach you—instinct, the ability to read “tells” and how they maintain a living after so many endless, uncountable hours at the tables—in side games, tournaments, private games.

Along the way, he imparts solid advice—analyzing his triumphs and mistakes.
This is a fine gift book and one that offers lessons about the game through the eyes of a journalist who has learned to love it, as did Al Alvarez in The Biggest Game in Town (also now back in print) and the late David Spanier.

Books reviewed here are available from Gambler’s Book Shop, 630 South 11th Street, Las Vegas, NV 89101. You may order using a Master Card, VISA or Discover card (no American Express accepted) by calling 1-800-522-1777 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time, Monday through Saturday. You may also order via the store’s web site at www.gamblersbook.com anytime, using the credit cards indicated, where you may also view another 1,000 books in 30 other areas of gambling, plus videos and computer software.

As the holidays quickly approach the question a lot of people are asking themselves are "What can I get for my favorite gaming aficionado?" Well, there is a place you can go without hopping on a plane and heading to your favorite gift shop in Las Vegas.

PokerProducts.com - Poker Products is an unique web site that focuses in the Thursday Night poker player. They offer everything and anything relating to poker. One can order playing cards from casinos, poker chips, and even complete poker tables. Check out their "HOT DEALS" page for quick and impressive gift ideas.

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