[Troll_Inc]

For an absolute beginner to PLO, I think Hellmuth's book is fine. (But I wouldn't say buy Hellmuth or Super System..just read the chapters in the book store). Of course Ciaffone's book, order directly from the author - try and get a signed copy - and refer back to at regular intervals throughout your playing career.

"Ciaffone & Reuben: Pot-limit & No-limit Poker (and read *all* of it even the chapters on stuff like pl/nl lowball and stud)"

This is an excellent book, but I think will be lost on someone just starting out in the game. The exception would be the first chapter(s) on the difference between limit, pot limit, and no limit.

You are probably too far away from when you learned the game to remember the most difficult aspects of all the sudden getting 4 cards in your hand instead of 2.

Of your list, I dont think any will _hurt_ a new player except for Reuben's book. That'd be like having someone get their driver learner's permit in a Ferrari.