Poker Player Biographies

Amarillo Slim in a World Full of Fat People is the memoir of a living American icon, detailing his journey as a Texas road gambler and his exploration of the Wild West. This narrative also captures how Slim triumphed at the World Series of Poker at Binion’s Horseshoe, rose to global fame, and played a pivotal role in bringing poker from the obscurity of smoky backrooms into the spotlight of mainstream America. Experience his story, as told by him.

A semi-autobiographical work that intertwines engaging stories, often involving well-known and sometimes unpleasant figures, with gambling insights and other advice. It presents a psychological self-portrait of a “math nerd” who, by confronting Las Vegas, overcame mild autism. This narrative is enriched by juicy anecdotes and a unique perspective, all by a writer who navigates through life’s challenges with a blend of mathematics and personal growth.

James McManus, a New York Times-bestselling author, has crafted a collection of seven autobiographical stories. Persuaded by his grandmother at eight years old that priesthood would ensure his family’s salvation, Vince eagerly enrolls in a Jesuit seminary for high school. However, as he begins to understand the implications of a celibacy vow and faces the allure of poker and girls, his enthusiasm for seminary life wanes. These stories offer a humorous and insightful look into Catholicism, faith, celibacy, and the world’s favorite card game, poker. McManus, often referred to as “poker’s Shakespeare,” is also the author of Positively Fifth Street and Cowboys Full, among others. He has received numerous awards and currently teaches at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Building on the success of his first best-selling book, “Moorman’s Book of Poker,” Chris Moorman takes a different approach in his second publication, “Moorman.” In this book, he not only analyzes his own poker hands but also shares the captivating journey of his remarkable achievements. Chris opens up about his early life, his introduction to poker, and chronicles both the peaks and valleys of his career to date. He immerses readers in the realm of poker, where victories can amount to millions of dollars and losses can be even more staggering. By studying the strategic reasoning of the most successful online poker player in history, readers are offered invaluable insights that could significantly elevate their own game. Moreover, the book features contributions from several world-class professional poker players, including Daniel Negreanu, Liv Boeree, and Fedor Holz, who offer their perspectives on Chris’s strategies. This enriches the narrative by providing a multifaceted view of his approach to the game.

The Autobiography of Doyle Brunson also known as ‘The Godfather of Poker’ is a captivating memoir by Doyle Brunson himself. This book takes readers on a journey, through his life starting from his origins in Texas and leading to his extraordinary ascent as one of the most accomplished and revered poker players worldwide. It delves into his experiences encompassing relationships, trials, triumphs and paints a vivid picture of his professional career. The pages are filled with gripping anecdotes from high stakes poker games, thrilling tournaments and the evolution of Brunson’s poker strategies. Moreover this book offers insights, into the world of poker throughout its history and introduces readers to influential personalities who have left an indelible mark on the game.

No Limit: The Rise and Fall of Bob Stupak and Las Vegas’ Stratosphere Tower is a biography written by John L. Smith. The book chronicles the life and career of Bob Stupak, a controversial and flamboyant Las Vegas casino owner and entrepreneur. It details Stupak’s rise to prominence in the gambling industry, his ambitious project to build the Stratosphere Tower (the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States), and the eventual financial collapse of the project. The book provides an in-depth look at Stupak’s personal life, his business ventures, and the challenges he faced in the competitive world of Las Vegas casinos.

This lively biography encapsulates the essence of a carefree era, painting a vivid picture of the risk-taking hero who was the inspiration behind Guys and Dolls. Alvin “Titanic” Thompson (1892-1974), born in an Ozark log cabin, journeyed with his golf clubs, a .45 revolver, and a suitcase full of cash. He gambled millions on cards, dice, golf, pool, and his own perilous games. He was married five times, each time to a teenage bride, and was responsible for the deaths of five men. Thompson was the kingpin of New York’s underground craps games in the 1920s and was the real-life counterpart of Damon Runyon’s smooth-talking Sky Masterson. He was a dominant figure in golf before the PGA Tour era, playing alongside greats like Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Lee Trevino, and Ray Floyd. Thompson also fooled Al Capone with card tricks, lost a million to Minnesota Fats before teaming up with him to win it all back, and may have been the best golfer of his time. Titanic Thompson is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a wager, bringing to life the vibrant era of a unique character: America’s first road gambler.

It chronicles the life of Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott, a renowned and accomplished poker player hailing from the United Kingdom. From his upbringing in a neighborhood, in Hull, England to his remarkable ascent as a professional poker player amassing fame and fortune along the way. It provides a look into his life, including his relationships and family dynamics. Moreover it delves into Ulliotts accomplishments in his career, such as securing a World Series of Poker bracelet and clinching victory in a World Poker Tour event. Additionally this book offers insights, into the thrilling world of high stakes poker shedding light on the personalities, strategic approaches and lavish lifestyles embraced by its players.