One of my favorite writers on gambling and casino subjects is Frank Scoblete. His information is always based on good math and he writes with an entertaining style that makes all his books very readable. He has two new books out: Beat Blackjack Now and Casino Craps: Shoot to Win!
The sub-title of the blackjack book is a good summary of its contents: The Easiest Way to Get the Edge. This is a good book for many kinds of blackjack players, with smart betting advice for all player levels. It introduces the beginning recreational player to the basics of the game and good basic strategy. It describes the new Speed Count system, its simplicity appealing to both beginners and those who have found the more traditional counting system too difficult to master. There are also chapters on Spanish 21 and blackjack tournament play.
The craps book is a comprehensive work covering this game, from how to understand the crap table layout and the various bets you can make to advanced strategies that can help you gain an advantage. It explains why betting systems cannot turn this negative-expectation game into a positive one. And then it delves deeply into dice control, the only way to beat the casino playing this fun game.
I – and many other gamblers – did not immediately embrace dice control as a valid winning strategy for craps. However, Frank and his “disciples” have made a believer out me. Not that I have taken up the game, but I believe it is a viable strategy, but only for someone who is willing to study and practice extremely intensely, putting in the initial and continuing long hours that it requires.
Casino Craps: Shoot to Win! also comes with a DVD showing unedited controlled throws, with commentary by Frank Scoblete.
You can order both of these books at www.triumphbooks.com.
Franks big blunder was his book on Video Poker. Lots of misinformation particularly concerning Atlantic City machines.
I understand a non-craps player’s acceptance of “dice control”, but simple physics tells you that it’s nearly impossible to control the outcome of tossed dice on a standard craps table. Not only do you have to throw the dice perfectly (arc, speed, angle of toss, etc.) but you’d have to hit one of the (specific) rubber cones designed to randomize any toss with perfect precision. In our universe, that’s madness. I’d sooner search for an “ideal gas”.
I like Mr. Scoblete’s style and his books. One of his first books, “Guerilla Gambling” remains a favorite that I turn to occasionally, even though it’s getting a little long in the tooth. I might have to check these out sometime.