A book review

Why I H8 The 8 of Diamonds:  The Poker Un-Bible

By Chris Flook & Justin Campbell

Let me first say that this book was hilarious.  I laughed myself silly until I realized that I actually know Remy, the “Hero” of the book.  I’ve played with Neo-Remys so many times, and have stared in amazement at their hubris.  This book made me both laugh and cry.  I have to say honestly that I think it is probably too painful to read again, in spite of the fact that there are several witty, subtly covert innuendos throughout the book that might be interesting enough for a second read.

So as I write this review, it’s difficult to see the book for what it really is:  a humorous, witty peek into the mind of a donkey.  It’s meant to be funny.  My only contention is that a couple of the hands that Remy played seemed uncomfortably familiar.  Towards the end of the book, Remy sucks out with 3-2 suited, making a straight to beat his opponent who held pocket Kings, and flopped a set.  Sadly, I know exactly what that feels like.

The book is written in the style of a tutorial of sorts, by Remy, the “hero” who thinks he’s the best poker player in the last 2000 years.  (I think he actually says that in the book.)  Remy is an interesting character.  He lives in his mother’s basement, and it’s pretty safe to say that his heterosexuality hangs by a very thin thread.  His poker “secrets” are, well, interesting.  He describes his concept of “reverse implied pot odds” which basically means you can really suck out with runner-runner cards to catch your straight or flush.  Remy’s story takes you all the way from gradeschool recess to the World Series of Poker.

This book is refreshing in that it allows me to laugh, both at myself and at my most painful poker memories.