Blackjack Attack: Playing the Pros' Way

by Don Schlesinger

The most important book available to blackjack aficionados since Beat the Dealer by Ed Thorp, Blackjack Attack has been praised by every prominent blackjack expert. In it, Schlesinger answers virtually all of the thorny mathematical questions that have puzzled serious players for optimal betting, camouflage, risk analysis, team play, systems comparison, and much more. With twice as much material as its predecessor, this third edition contains new studies bound to intrigue even the most knowledgeable pro, including a complete reexamination of the late Peter Griffin's work, and the publication of the most accurate basic strategy and effects of removal charts ever devised.

533 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1997

Reviews

[Stacy Sherman · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book (quoted by the blackjack community as BJA3) need to be in the library of any blackjack player who is or aspires to be a card counter.

This book is NOT a basic text on blackjack or card counting. This is an advanced book to be read by anyone who has or is starting to learn card counting and then later read again and used for reference.

Most of the chapters are reprints of articles written for blackjack forum in the 80's and 90's. They cover such subjects as:

-Back counting shoes

-Risk of ruin

-The Illustrious 18

-Camoflage

-Team play

The biggest reason I replaced my second edition copy with the 3rd edition was the SCORE method of evaluating games. It takes into account deck penetration & style of play as well as the rules offered such as late surrender and dealer hits/stands on soft 17.

Don is the guy who figured out the Illustrious 18 (among other things) So the guy is definitely a math whiz! Despite that, his writing is interesting and entertaining. My only issue with the book is that you really need to know what you're doing to read some of his tables. This is definitely graduate level blackjack!

[Robert Lux · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an absolute masterpiece. Whilst most other blackjack books keep reinventing the wheel, Schlesinger introduces a whole new world and dimension of the game.

Difficult, yes, but one of the few jaw dropping books out there. An absolute must for anyone who’s serious about their blackjack.

[Daniel Laufer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The other gold standard blackjack book. Interesting to learn about. You will not be able to "win", but you'll learn the long and arduous path to winning.

[Carlos Jiménez · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thorough and practical exploration of advanced blackjack strategy. The book offers clear explanations and real-world examples that seasoned players will value. Slightly dense at times but definitely worth the read.