The story of poker, from its roots in China, the Middle East, and Europe to its ascent as a global--but especially an American--phenomenon, braiding history with poker's relevance to our military, diplomatic, business, and personal affairs.

Details the origins of the game along with the characters, weapons, vehicles, equipment, and locations from Halo, Halo 2, Halo 3, Halo 3 ODST, and Halo Wars. Created in collaboration with Microsoft, it is packed with illustrations and technical drawings that highlight all the information fans and newcomers to the game need to know.

"When it comes to billiards, we control the table." Billiard games are some of the most popular pastimes in America, and "The Complete Idiotas Guide to Pool and Billiards" is the most comprehensive, easy-to-use guide to the subject on the market today. This updated edition includes: a[ New sections on eight-ball and nine-ballatwo of the most popular games a[ An all-new section of show-stopping trick shots anyone can do a[ Dozens of new photos and a completely updated resource section a[ Updated Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame a[ A new overview on the multi-million-dollar market for TV tournaments Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

"The Pattern in the Carpet: A Personal History with Jigsaws" is an original and brilliant work. Margaret Drabble weaves her own story into a history of games, in particular jigsaws, which have offered her and many others relief from melancholy and depression. Alongside curious facts and discoveries about jigsaw puzzles -- did you know that the 1929 stock market crash was followed by a boom in puzzle sales? -- Drabble introduces us to her beloved Auntie Phyl, and describes childhood visits to the house in Long Bennington on the Great North Road, their first trip to London together, the books they read, the jigsaws they completed. She offers penetrating sketches of her parents, her siblings, and her children; she shares her thoughts on the importance of childhood play, on art and writing, on aging and memory. And she does so with her customary intelligence, energy, and wit. This is a memoir like no other. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

The irresistible combination of skill and luck as you race around the board has drawn people to cribbage for centuries. Now, Dan Barlow helps players reach the next level by taking them on guided journey through the game. He offers tons of tips on everything from the basics (counting points and guessing an opponent's hand) to pro maneuvers for choosing the opening lead, counter-pegging, and tossing aside danger cards. In addition to the expert advice, Barlow provides skill-building exercises, sample games to practice on, and information on tournaments and clubs where fans can share their passion for the game. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

In an enthralling blend of travelogue, pop-culture analysis, and memoir, former role-player Gilsdorf asks gaming and fantasy geeks how they balance their escapist urges with the kingdom of adulthood. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.