[amulet]

you need both. both are great books.

ssh is great at explaining a lot of advanced hold em concepts and how to play. in practical terms it will teach you which hands to play, which hands to raise for a positive expectation, position, counting outs, odds, flop texture, protecting you hand, etc.

theory of poker is very different. i consider it the best and most important poker book ever written. it teaches you theory. it discusses, theory that applies to every decision you make at the table. basic game theory that applies to every decision you make in life. it covers why to raise, why to bluff, why calling is correct even if you think you are a dog to win a pot, playing hands deceptively, position, implied odds, theory of semi-bluffing, etc. you will read top several times after your initial read, and you will find that you reread this at least once a year for the next ten years.

and i also think that even though you are on a budget hpfap will more then pay for itself.