Books and Video

Billiard books and video are the cheapest way to improve — the theory of position and tactics has not changed in decades, so a 1990s edition is as current as a new one.

The classics are Phil Capelle "Play Your Best Pool", David Alciatore "The Illustrated Principles of Pool and Billiards" and the Ray Martin manuals; in snooker the staples are the Steve Davis and Terry Griffiths titles. Then there are tapes and discs with lessons, recordings of old tournaments, and albums on the history of the game. Some titles exist only in English, but the diagrams of shots read fine without translation. The practical companion is coaches and lessons and training accessories. The whole section is passion and gifts.