First published 2020
Maria Konnikova knew nothing about poker when she approached Erik Seidel, a Poker Hall of Fame member who had won tens of millions. She convinced him to mentor her, not to make money but to understand life better. Konnikova brought a psychology PhD and expertise in human behavior to their partnership. Seidel agreed to guide her through the competitive world of high-stakes Texas Hold'em, aiming for the World Series of Poker. Under his teaching, she gained insights about reading opponents and herself, managing emotional states that clouded judgment, and accepting the role of luck. But something unexpected happened. Konnikova started winning tournaments, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars within a year. She claimed a major title, secured sponsorship, and appeared on television as headlines proclaimed how a book deal transformed her into a professional player. Through this journey, she discovered that the greatest deception is believing skill alone determines outcomes. Bad luck will come, but focusing on how we play our cards rather than results helps us navigate difficult periods until fortune turns favorable again.
Genres: biography, psychology, business, self-help, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, mentor-mentee
368 pages · Hardcover · Penguin Press