The author, an executive with Morgan Stanley, holds a degree in applied mathematics (Harvard) and in finance (University of Chicago). In both institutions, he played poker with the rich and future famous. In this work he focuses on the odds and skills underlying the mercurial crafts of risk taking and shows how poker and Wall Street are easily intertwined. He reveals why the modern game of poker and modern finance have more simlarities than differences and what they mean for players at each kind of table.

To win at poker in today's modern game requires not only numerous skills, but also lots of thinking about he game. The book is designed to make the reader do a great deal of thinking. Few readers will agree with everything said, but the information provided should help people become better players. This text contains many of the author's ideas on poker and related subjects. Topics covered include General Concepts, Technical Ideas, Structure, Strategic Ideas, Image, Tournament Notes, In the Cardrooms, and Poker Quizzes. In addition, advice is offered on jackpot games, handling pressure, why you lose, fluctuations, bankroll requirements, differences between stud and hold'em, too many bad players, limit versus no-limit, thinking fast, weak tight opponents, the best hold'em seat, playing short handed, playing loose or tight, appropriate image, being an alternate in tournaments, taking advantage of tight play in tournaments, behaving professionally, the future of poker, and much more.