Instructional Pool Book/Bible

Just my two cents...I'd say, start here:
http://playbetterbilliards.com/

From there:
The 99 Critical Shots in Pool and Play you best straight pool build a strong foundation. There is an amazing amount of shared knowledge out there these days. Some books/DVDs click better with different people. But In my opinion, nothing beats personal instruction.
 
Is there any one instructional pool book or manual that is a must have.

I would say 99 Critical Shots by Martin. Experienced players may look at it like, "I already know that stuff", but to a new player there are things you may have to be around pool for a long time to learn trial and error that are right there in the book.
 
That's too many books, pick one.
If I have to pick one, based on the range of topics covered and its accuracy, it would have to be Byrne's "New Standard Book of Pool and Billiards." Martin's book is good, and was the best available at the time it was published, but it has some errors and the diagrams aren't done well.
 
It Depends

Honestly, I think it depends on your skill level, and what you want to use it for. If you're looking for a book that covers a lot about the concepts of pool, the above books are very good. If youre looking for more specific things about certain games, I like Freddy's books for Bank Pool, Winning One Pocket and Shots, Moves, and Strategies, for One Pocket, or either The Eight Ball Bible or Play Your Best Eight Ball.
 
If I have to pick one, based on the range of topics covered and its accuracy, it would have to be Byrne's "New Standard Book of Pool and Billiards." Martin's book is good, and was the best available at the time it was published, but it has some errors and the diagrams aren't done well.

Seconded! This book helped me clear up some of the mysticism about pool....from a novice's point of view. :)
 
If I have to pick one, based on the range of topics covered and its accuracy, it would have to be Byrne's "New Standard Book of Pool and Billiards." Martin's book is good, and was the best available at the time it was published, but it has some errors and the diagrams aren't done well.

Agree with that. The fundamentals advice is very dated, especially the 'goldilocks' stance part.

I also can't make some of the shots as described.
 
Play your best Pool by Phil Capelle and The Illustrated Principles of Pool and Billiards by David G. Alciatore

Are my 2 favorites.
 
My previous favorite was Byrne's "New Standard Book of Pool", but I also got Phil Capelle's "Play Your Best Pool" on a friend's recommendation and that is my new favorite. Takes it to the next level particularly on 8-ball and 9-ball strategy.

Both of them do a great job breaking down the fundamentals before talking strategy and position play etc.
 
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