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The Biggest Bluff

How I Learned to Pay Attention, Master Myself, and Win
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( 15,427 ratings, 1,718 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Biggest Bluff by Maria Konnikova blends psychology and poker as the author dives into the world of professional poker to better understand decision-making, chance, and risk. Guided by a poker champion, she explores how mastering the game can offer insights into overcoming life's uncertainties and improving one's mental game.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you enjoy exploring the fascinating intersections between psychology, decision-making, and the world of professional poker. It offers deep insights into human behaviour and the skills needed to master both cards and life's unpredictable challenges.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

How a New York Times bestselling author and New Yorker contributor parlayed a strong grasp of the science of human decision-making and a woeful ignorance of cards into a life-changing run as a professional poker player, under the wing of a legend of the game

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description
The Biggest Bluff by Maria Konnikova is a riveting journey into the world of professional poker, but more significantly, it is a profound exploration of human decision-making, luck, and psychology. Maria Konnikova, a New York Times bestselling author and seasoned contributor to the New Yorker, steps out of her comfort zone into the unpredictable realm of high-stakes poker. Remarkably, she had never played a hand of poker and was unfamiliar with the rules when she boldly approached Erik Seidel, a Poker Hall of Fame inductee with millions in tournament winnings, to be her mentor.

Driven by a personal streak of bad luck and a growing curiosity about the role of chance in life, Konnikova chooses poker as her lens to understand and distinguish between what lies within our control and what does not. Seidel, intrigued by her unique approach, agrees to mentor her, and thus begins Konnikova's dive into a world where strategy, psychology, and unpredictability intertwine.

Under Seidel’s expert guidance, Konnikova experiences transformative revelations both at the poker table and in her personal life. Alongside learning the intricacies of the game, she uncovers insights about human behaviour, decision making, and self-awareness. Her epiphanies extend beyond poker as she learns to read her opponents and, more importantly, herself. This journey not only helps her make better decisions but also teaches her to accept and understand the true nature of luck. Remarkably, Konnikova’s dedication and learning curve lead her to success in the poker world, culminating in her participation in the prestigious World Series of Poker.

As Konnikova navigates through the highs and lows of her poker journey, she discovers a new appreciation for Las Vegas, the vibrant heart of the poker universe. Her adventure is not solely about winning games but about translating these experiences into broader life lessons. The biggest revelation she encounters is the illusion that skill alone can determine outcomes, thus challenging the conventional wisdom about control and chance in life.

The Biggest Bluff is an enthralling account that will captivate not just poker enthusiasts but anyone interested in the science of human behaviour and decision-making. Konnikova's engaging narrative combines vivid storytelling with insightful analysis, making this book a must-read. It will sharpen your thinking, refine your approach to risk, and illuminate the fine line between skill and chance.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Biggest Bluff by Maria Konnikova is praised for its accessible nature even for non-poker players, combining a quest narrative with behavioural science. It's seen as a compelling story that questions the traditional American dream of hard work equating to prosperity. Reviewers have lauded it for its depiction of the game of poker and the valuable life skills it teaches, calling it an uplifting journey and master class in decision-making. Konnikova's writing and observational skills are particularly highlighted, making the book both a gripping read and an insightful look into poker's world.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008270872

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 24 June 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Fourth Estate Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 23.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 260g

Pages: 370

About the Author

Maria Konnikova is the author of Mastermind and The Confidence Game. She is a regular contributor for the New Yorker, and has written for the Atlantic, New York Times, Slate, New Republic, Paris Review, Wall Street Journal, Salon, WIRED, among many other publications. Her writing has won numerous awards, including the 2019 Excellence in Science Journalism Award from the Society of Personality and Social Psychology.

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