You know it happens every time there's a surge of interested in one topic or another. The information gap is deeper than the Grand Canyon. And in gaming, the current hot topic that begs for a dictionary of the lingo is poker. As the legion of players from the newer generation of actionseekers enters the foray, the need for facts and definitions increases. Newcomers are bound to have questions about the derivation of many of the unusual poker terms.
Simply, sometimes we play games without knowing how it evolved into its present form or we have questions and don't know where to go for answers.
Poker Talk Should Enlighten New Players And Give Dealers An Edge
In his new book, Avery Cardoza steps up and fills in most of the blanks with a book of definitions in an interesting, readable format. Poker Talk is probably most valuable for players and dealers because it helps explain terms such as "implied odds" and "shoot at a player"; and what "Baskin- Robbins" mean. Even though they might not use them, knowing the terms can be a big plus.
When novice players feel uncomfortable at the table, for example they're apt not to return to a card room or a particular game if players around them are using slang or jargon which puzzle or confuse them. A smart dealer seeking appropriate tokes will clarify these slang expressions for a player who seems puzzled or asks--either during or after a game.
For the inquisitive players seeking to gain the book will help them understand what's being said at the table and help keep opponents from talking around them so to speak. The thousands or terms and phrases are listed in alphabetical order with clarifying examples and occasional cartoons where the usage is illuminated or emphasized. It's a handy little book--a nice gift item for players, dealers or for those running a card room or occasional tournament.
-Howard Schwartz
