|
 In
the 37-year history of Gambler's Book Club, few books have been
so avidly-awaited as Mike Caro's Book of Tells (The Body Language
of Poker) (347 pages, paperbound, $24.95). Like the return
of Columbus to Queen Isabella's court in Spain 500 years ago, Caro's
book caused the poker populace to wait longingly at the shores for
sightings of his sails.
"At last, at
last!" the crowds roared-and so it is-the book is now available
again.
Originally published
in 1984, this work created an immediate stir among poker communities
internationally. Little-known secrets of the pros were now revealed.
The subtle moves-the twitches, the long stares in opposite directions
of action, the tiny voice inflections, nods of the head, eye contact-were
all there, but now each one could be interpreted, analyzed and given
value.
People who didn't
know they were "telling" their opponents whether they improved or
not or caught a "nut flush" or were bluffing all read this book
and began to benefit. At the very least, the sale of dark glasses
skyrocketed internationally-now it became more difficult for the
very best observers to analyze the pupils of opponents' eyes. Twitches
soon became an "art."
In my opinion,
the industry owes a debt of gratitude to Caro, who helped pioneer
this unique section of the psychology of the game for the millions
who enjoy seeking an edge in America's game. This book is one of
the most important tools a beginner or serious player can have in
his possession.
For what IF
a player is perfect mathematically, lucky in his position at the
table, able to manage his money ands find the right game, the right
table? If he has a weakness-he rubs his nose, tugs on an ear, flicks
his cigar ashes a certain way or breathes awkwardly when he improves.
Only the unsophisticated stay with him or away from him-because
they know he's hit well on the most recent card dealt. Caro's work
helps elevate players to this level of sophistication.
The secret interpretation
of tells is not unique to this century. Sharp observers of gamblers
more than 100 years ago could pick up subtle differences in reaction
to a hand dealt or drawn to? Did he improve or is he bluffing? For
some it was more than a guess. Like a human lie detector, the sharp
observer could find that edge and exploit it.
Today poker
has gained more respectability than ever.
Tournaments
are proliferating like never before. In the old days, maybe a few
hundred dollars rode on the last deal of a card in five stud or
five draw. Today, thousands, sometimes hundreds of thousands are
at stake in big tournaments.
Caro's chapter
headings show you the territory he covers (illustrated, with charts
and tables reflecting the value per hour of your observation and
the reliability level of what is shown). He has a section titled
Tells From Those Who Are Unaware-and this includes Shuffling a Hand;
Nervousness; Fearlessness; Glancing at Chips; Sudden Interest; Instant
Reaction; Protecting a Hand. Then there's Tells From Actors, where
Weak Means Strong and Strong Means Weak; Encouraging or Discouraging
Your Bet; Tricks.
|
