From Beginner to Expert: The Best Books on Counting Cards

Well, there are several reasons.

First, we absorb information better in a long-form book format. It’s easy to get distracted online—you’re reading a short article about a card-counting strategy one minute and browsing social media the next.

The information is also presented differently. In a book, the writer will tell you their backstory, discuss probabilities and go to great lengths to explain how the strategy works, how best to use it, how to deal with casinos and croupiers, and how to avoid detection.

Articles are much shorter, and the writer can cram only so much information onto a single page.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Card Counting Books

The best books on counting cards aren’t just the ones that introduce the most effective strategies.

The information in any how-to-count cards book must also meet some basic criteria:

• It is easy to read, with simple and digestible information. If it’s too academic and dry, and you’re just a beginner, you may struggle to retain anything.
• It presents a strategy that is proven to be effective.
• It is relevant to the modern game and your gameplay, whether you’re an online player or prefer specific blackjack variants (such as European or American blackjack).
• It contains practical advice on winning at blackjack, extending beyond card counting strategies (bankrolling, choosing the right games, dealing with suspicious croupiers, etc.)

Whether you’re looking for a blackjack apprenticeship book that covers the basics or a book that delves deep into complex strategies, these are the best books on counting cards:

Book 1: ‘Beat the Dealer’ by Edward O. Thorp

Not only is Beat the Dealer one of the best books on card counting, but it’s the perfect text to start your card counting journey.

Thorp is considered by many to be the “father of card counting” and first published this book in the 1960s.

He outlines some easy-to-follow strategies and uses a series of charts and tables to help readers visualize the methods. Thorp also introduces card-counting methods, discusses avoiding being spotted, and provides tips for spotting cheaters at the table.

Book 2: ‘Professional Blackjack’ by Stanford Wong

Stanford Wong is one of the biggest names in blackjack. He has written several books on the game, and this is one of his best.

Professional Blackjack introduces players to a card counting strategy known as “high low.” For many, it is the card-counting bible, and even though it was first published in the 1970s, thanks to Wong’s unique approach, it remains as relevant as it always was.

The author leaves no stone unturned and goes to great lengths to explain how the strategy works concerning the many different table rules encountered at US casinos.

The game of blackjack has changed a lot in the decades since this book was first published, but the rules and variations remain the same.

In addition to covering card counting, Professional Blackjack discusses general blackjack strategy and shows players how to go pro and turn this card game into a career.

Book 3: ‘Blackbelt in Blackjack’ by Arnold Snyder

Once you learn basic strategies and card-counting methods, it’s time for the next step.

Blackbelt in Blackjack covers everything you need to know as a card counter. It’s packed with helpful information, presented clearly and concisely to ensure it sticks.

There are 21 chapters in total, and they cover strategies such as the famous Red 7 Count and True Count, which are very important strategies that every card counter should have in their arsenal.

Book 4: ‘Burning the Tables in Las Vegas’ by Ian Andersen

Ian Anderson published Turning the Tables in the mid-1970s, and it soon became a classic. Burning the Tables is a sequel that includes everything he learned in the two decades following that book. It emphasizes avoiding detection and keeping your winning streak in the face of casino bans.

It’s an advanced card counting book designed for players who have learned the strategies and tested them and now need advice on maintaining their win streaks.

If you have learned all you can learn from basic and intermediate blackjack books, pick up Burning the Tables to start the next chapter in your career as a blackjack pro.

Book 5: ‘The Theory of Blackjack’ by Peter A. Griffin

The Theory of Blackjack is more challenging to read than some of the more beginner-focused books mentioned above. It goes deep into the mathematics of the game and isn’t afraid to present complex data.

It can be read as a beginner, especially if you focus more on the probabilities behind certain strategies and are familiar with complex concepts. Still, for most readers, this is an advanced book best saved until you already have a good grasp of blackjack strategies and card counting.

How to Use the Best Books on Counting Cards

You can’t take a book on counting cards to the blackjack table unless you want to be shown the door.

Start by reading and understanding the concepts. Put them to the test with some home games of blackjack, use card counting simulations if you need them, and advance to real money live games when you’re ready.

Once you can make it through a few games while keeping an accurate count and winning money, you can start thinking about increasing the stakes, all while reading more advanced books and improving your strategy.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Card Counting Book for You

Start with Beat the Dealer, and if you’re still excited by the concept and application of card counting by the end, advance to more of the best books on counting cards, including Professional Blackjack and Blackbelt in Blackjack.

Remember to keep putting your skills to the test as you learn, ensuring the information sticks.

For more information on blackjack and other popular card games, check out the casino games guide on BetUS—blackjack isn’t the only game where you can plan, plot, strategize, and potentially beat the dealer.