Las Vegas has been immortalized in countless books, but few have attempted to capture the city’s essence like The Las Vegas Book by Joris Dekkers. This high-end, limited-edition coffee table book is more than just a collection of photos—it’s a deep dive into the evolution of Sin City, chronicling its transformation from a mob-run gambling hub to the entertainment capital of the world. With only 3,500 copies available, it’s as exclusive as the VIP suites on The Strip.
A Tribute to the Magic of Las Vegas
Dekkers, a Netherlands-born writer and historian, has always been fascinated by Vegas. But it wasn’t until he first set foot inside the Wynn that inspiration struck. That moment led to a decade-long journey that culminated in this project.
“Every time I visited, I kept asking questions about how Vegas became what it is today,” he told PokerNews. “I wanted to create something that wasn’t just another book, but a tribute that felt as grand as the city itself.”
The book covers everything from the Sinatra era to the megaresorts built by visionaries like Steve Wynn. Lavish hotels, poker legends, iconic performers—it’s all in there, brought to life through 450 pages and over 300 stunning photographs.
A Collector’s Dream—If You Can Get One
This isn’t a standard-issue history book. It’s a handcrafted luxury piece made in Italy, featuring a velvet interior, a leather case, and gold foil detailing. Weighing a hefty 18 pounds, The Las Vegas Book is designed to feel as grand as the subject it covers.
Some key details:
- Price: $495 USD
- Dimensions: 16” x 13” x 2.3”
- Edition: First, limited to 3,500 copies
- Language: English
- Chapters: 28
- Pages: 450
- Photographs: 300+
- Shipping: Worldwide, within 24 hours on weekday orders
For serious collectors or Las Vegas enthusiasts, this book isn’t just a purchase—it’s an investment in history.
The Story Behind the Book
The idea for The Las Vegas Book didn’t come overnight. Dekkers spent years researching, visiting the city, and studying its past before he put pen to paper.
“Vegas books mostly come from the ‘90s or early 2000s, and I thought it was time for something new,” he explained. “Not just new, but bigger—something that truly reflects the grandeur of Las Vegas.”
The pandemic played a key role in bringing the book to life. With travel and work slowed down, Dekkers finally found the time to pour his passion into writing. The result? A comprehensive history that feels like stepping onto The Strip without leaving your living room.
Why This Book Stands Out
Las Vegas is a city of excess, and Dekkers wanted his book to match that energy. It’s not just a recap of the past—it’s a visual spectacle, designed to transport readers straight into the neon lights, high-stakes poker tables, and legendary performances that define the city.
Unlike typical coffee table books, which often focus purely on visuals, this one blends stunning photography with deep historical insight. From the mafia’s influence in the ‘50s to the rise of megaresorts like Bellagio and The Mirage, every chapter tells a compelling story.
But there’s also an emotional connection woven throughout the book. Dekkers captures what makes Las Vegas so addictive—not just the gambling or the glitz, but the feeling it gives you. That sense of stepping into another world, where anything seems possible.
A Book That Brings Vegas Home
For those who’ve ever walked The Strip and felt its energy, The Las Vegas Book is a way to relive those memories. And for those who haven’t? It’s a ticket to experience the magic without ever stepping foot in Nevada.
With only 3,500 copies available, this book is likely to become a prized collector’s item. Whether it’s for a Vegas aficionado, a poker fanatic, or someone who simply appreciates history wrapped in luxury, The Las Vegas Book delivers on all fronts.
It’s a tribute, a history lesson, and a work of art—all in one massive, beautifully crafted package.