Top 10 Must-Read Bridge Books for Beginners

Bridge is a captivating card game that has stood the test of time, enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. If you're a beginner looking to dive into the world of Bridge, it's essential to have the right resources to guide you through the basics and help you improve your skills. In this article, we've compiled a list of the top 10 must-read Bridge books for beginners, guaranteed to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the game.

Essential Bridge Books to Kickstart Your Journey

Bridge for Dummies by Eddie Kantar

Eddie Kantar's "Bridge for Dummies" is a comprehensive beginner's guide that demystifies the complex world of Bridge. This book is perfect for those who are new to the game and want to learn the basics in a clear, concise, and entertaining manner.

Kantar, a world-renowned Bridge player and author, breaks down the fundamentals of the game into easy-to-understand concepts. He covers essential topics such as:

The rules of Bridge Hand valuation and bidding Declarer play techniques Defensive strategies Bridge etiquette and scoring One of the strengths of "Bridge for Dummies" is Kantar's ability to explain complex ideas in simple terms. He uses everyday language and relatable examples to illustrate key points, making the learning process enjoyable and accessible for beginners.

Throughout the book, Kantar includes helpful diagrams, charts, and practice hands to reinforce the concepts he teaches. These visual aids are invaluable for beginners, as they help to clarify the various aspects of the game and provide opportunities for hands-on learning.

In addition to the technical aspects of Bridge, Kantar also dedicates a portion of the book to the social and psychological elements of the game. He offers advice on communication with partners, table manners, and maintaining a positive attitude – all crucial skills for any aspiring Bridge player.

"Bridge for Dummies" also features a useful glossary of Bridge terms, allowing beginners to quickly familiarize themselves with the language of the game. This resource is particularly helpful for those who may feel intimidated by the jargon used by more experienced players.

Overall, Eddie Kantar's "Bridge for Dummies" is an essential resource for anyone looking to learn the basics of Bridge. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and engaging writing style, this book provides a solid foundation upon which beginners can build their skills and confidence at the Bridge table.

Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience with trick-taking card games, "Bridge for Dummies" is an accessible and comprehensive guide that will help you navigate the exciting world of Bridge. By following Kantar's expert advice and practicing the techniques outlined in this book, you'll be well on your way to becoming a competent and confident Bridge player.

25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know by Barbara Seagram and Marc Smith

"25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know" is an essential guidebook for beginner and intermediate Bridge players looking to expand their knowledge of the game. Written by Barbara Seagram and Marc Smith, two highly respected Bridge teachers and authors, this book focuses on the most important and widely used conventions in Bridge.

Conventions are special agreements between partners about the meaning of specific bids. They are crucial for effective communication and can help partnerships reach optimal contracts. However, the sheer number of conventions can be overwhelming for newcomers to the game.

Seagram and Smith have carefully selected 25 of the most valuable and frequently encountered conventions, making this book an indispensable resource for players who want to improve their bidding skills. Some of the conventions covered in the book include:

Stayman Jacoby transfers Blackwood and Gerber Negative doubles Michaels cuebid Unusual 2NT Fourth suit forcing Each convention is explained in detail, with clear examples and practice hands to help readers understand when and how to apply them. The authors also provide valuable tips on remembering the conventions and avoiding common pitfalls.

One of the strengths of "25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know" is its organization. The book is divided into three sections based on the complexity of the conventions: basic, intermediate, and advanced. This structure allows readers to progress at their own pace and focus on the conventions that are most relevant to their current skill level.

In addition to the detailed explanations, the book also includes helpful summaries and quizzes at the end of each chapter. These tools reinforce the key points and allow readers to test their understanding of the material.

Seagram and Smith's writing style is clear, concise, and easy to follow. They use everyday language and engaging examples to make the conventions accessible and memorable for players of all levels.

Another notable feature of "25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know" is the inclusion of a glossary and a convention index. These resources allow readers to quickly look up unfamiliar terms and locate specific conventions within the book.

Overall, "25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know" is a must-have resource for any Bridge player looking to improve their bidding skills and understanding of the game. By mastering the conventions presented in this book, players will be better equipped to communicate effectively with their partners and reach optimal contracts.

Whether you're a beginner looking to move beyond the basics or an intermediate player seeking to refine your bidding arsenal, "25 Bridge Conventions You Should Know" provides a clear, concise, and practical guide to the most essential conventions in Bridge. With Seagram and Smith's expert guidance, you'll be well on your way to becoming a more knowledgeable and confident Bridge player.

The ABCs of Bridge by William S. Root

"The ABCs of Bridge" is a classic beginner's guide written by William S. Root, a renowned Bridge player, teacher, and author. First published in 1998, this book has stood the test of time and remains a popular choice for those looking to learn the fundamentals of the game.

Root's approach to teaching Bridge is simple, yet effective. He breaks down the game into its basic components and presents them in a logical, step-by-step manner. The book covers all the essential aspects of Bridge, including:

The rules and objectives of the game Hand evaluation and bidding Play of the hand (declarer and defensive techniques) Basic conventions Scoring and strategy One of the strengths of "The ABCs of Bridge" is Root's ability to explain complex concepts in a way that is easy for beginners to understand. He uses clear, concise language and provides numerous examples and illustrations to support his explanations.

Throughout the book, Root emphasizes the importance of developing good habits and a solid foundation in the basics. He encourages readers to focus on understanding the principles behind each concept rather than simply memorizing rules or conventions.

The book is organized into short, manageable chapters that can be read in sequence or used as a reference for specific topics. Each chapter concludes with a summary of key points and a set of practice exercises, allowing readers to test their understanding and reinforce their learning.

In addition to the technical aspects of Bridge, Root also addresses the psychological and social elements of the game. He offers advice on maintaining a positive attitude, communicating effectively with partners, and handling the inevitable setbacks that come with learning a new skill.

"The ABCs of Bridge" also includes a helpful glossary of Bridge terms, making it easy for beginners to navigate the jargon used by more experienced players. The book's appendix provides additional resources, such as a guide to Bridge etiquette and a list of recommended books for further study.

One of the unique features of "The ABCs of Bridge" is Root's use of a fictional character named Charlie to illustrate key concepts throughout the book. Charlie is a novice player who learns the game alongside the reader, asking questions and making mistakes that are common among beginners. This narrative device makes the learning process more engaging and relatable for readers.

Overall, William S. Root's "The ABCs of Bridge" is an excellent resource for anyone looking to learn the basics of Bridge. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and engaging style, this book provides a solid foundation upon which beginners can build their skills and confidence.

Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience with trick-taking card games, "The ABCs of Bridge" offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the fascinating world of Bridge. By following Root's expert guidance and practicing the techniques outlined in this book, you'll be well on your way to becoming a knowledgeable and competent Bridge player.

Bridge Basics 1: An Introduction by Audrey Grant

"Bridge Basics 1: An Introduction" is the first book in Audrey Grant's popular series designed to teach beginners the fundamentals of Bridge. Grant, a renowned Bridge teacher and author, has developed a unique and effective approach to teaching the game that has helped countless players worldwide.

This book is specifically tailored for those who are new to Bridge and want to build a solid foundation in the basics. Grant's teaching method is based on the idea that learning Bridge should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, not a daunting one.

"Bridge Basics 1" covers all the essential elements of the game, including:

The mechanics of play Hand evaluation Opening bids and responses The play of the hand Defense Grant presents each topic in a clear, concise, and logical manner, making it easy for beginners to understand and absorb the material. She uses everyday language and relatable examples to illustrate key points, ensuring that readers can grasp the concepts quickly and easily.

One of the standout features of "Bridge Basics 1" is its interactive approach to learning. Throughout the book, Grant includes numerous practice hands and exercises that allow readers to apply what they've learned and test their understanding. These hands are carefully designed to reinforce key concepts and provide valuable experience in bidding, play, and defense.

In addition to the practice hands, the book also features helpful diagrams, charts, and summaries that visually represent the concepts being taught. These visual aids are particularly useful for beginners, as they help to clarify the various aspects of the game and make the learning process more engaging.

Grant also places a strong emphasis on the importance of partnership communication and understanding. She introduces basic bidding conventions and provides guidance on how to interpret partner's bids, helping beginners develop the skills needed to effectively collaborate with their partners at the Bridge table.

Another notable aspect of "Bridge Basics 1" is Grant's focus on the social and ethical dimensions of the game. She includes discussions on Bridge etiquette, table manners, and the importance of maintaining a positive attitude – all essential skills for any aspiring Bridge player.

The book concludes with a series of practice deals that allow readers to put all the concepts they've learned into practice. These deals provide a valuable opportunity for beginners to experience the flow of a complete Bridge hand and gain confidence in their abilities.

Overall, Audrey Grant's "Bridge Basics 1: An Introduction" is an outstanding resource for anyone looking to learn the fundamentals of Bridge. With its clear explanations, interactive approach, and focus on partnership communication, this book provides a solid foundation upon which beginners can build their skills and enjoyment of the game.

Whether you're a complete novice or have some experience with trick-taking card games, "Bridge Basics 1" offers a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the world of Bridge. By following Grant's expert guidance and practicing the techniques outlined in this book, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and competent Bridge player.

Watson's Classic Book on The Play of the Hand at Bridge by Louis H. Watson

"Watson's Classic Book on The Play of the Hand at Bridge" is a timeless guide to the art of declarer play, written by Louis H. Watson, a renowned Bridge player and author. First published in 1958, this book has become a staple for players looking to improve their declarer play skills and take their game to the next level.

While the book is not specifically geared towards beginners, it is an invaluable resource for players who have mastered the basics of Bridge and are ready to delve deeper into the intricacies of the game. Watson's insights and strategies are presented in a clear and accessible manner, making the book suitable for players of all levels.

The book focuses on the essential techniques and principles of declarer play, covering topics such as:

Planning the play Managing entries Developing long suits Executing finesses and endplays Handling various suit combinations Watson's approach to declarer play is based on the idea that successful players must have a deep understanding of the underlying principles and be able to apply them flexibly in different situations. He emphasizes the importance of developing a logical thought process and being able to visualize the entire hand.

One of the strengths of "Watson's Classic Book on The Play of the Hand at Bridge" is the wealth of example hands and practical advice it provides. Watson includes numerous illustrative deals that demonstrate key concepts and strategies in action. He also offers valuable tips on how to avoid common pitfalls and make the most of declarer's opportunities.

Throughout the book, Watson stresses the importance of counting and inference. He teaches readers how to use the information gained from the bidding and play to form a picture of the opponents' hands and make informed decisions. This skill is essential for any player looking to improve their declarer play.

Another notable aspect of the book is Watson's emphasis on the psychological dimensions of the game. He discusses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, staying focused, and adapting to different opponents and situations. These insights are just as valuable today as they were when the book was first published.

While some of the terminology and conventions used in the book may be slightly outdated, the fundamental principles and strategies presented remain as relevant and effective as ever. Many of the techniques and concepts introduced by Watson have become standard practice among advanced players and continue to be taught by Bridge instructors worldwide.

Overall, "Watson's Classic Book on The Play of the Hand at Bridge" is a must-read for any player serious about improving their declarer play skills. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and timeless wisdom, this book provides a solid foundation for players looking to take their game to the next level.

Whether you're an intermediate player looking to refine your technique or an advanced player seeking to deepen your understanding of the game, "Watson's Classic Book on The Play of the Hand at Bridge" offers invaluable insights and strategies that will help you become a more successful and confident declarer.

Improve Your Bridge at Home by Andrew Kambites

"Improve Your Bridge at Home" is a practical guide designed to help players of all levels enhance their Bridge skills through self-study and practice. Written by Andrew Kambites, a renowned Bridge player, teacher, and author, this book offers a structured approach to learning and improving one's game from the comfort of home.

The book is based on the premise that the best way to improve at Bridge is through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Kambites provides readers with a comprehensive set of tools and exercises that allow them to work on specific aspects of their game, such as bidding, play, and defense.

One of the key features of "Improve Your Bridge at Home" is its progressive structure. The book is divided into chapters that focus on different aspects of the game, with each chapter building upon the concepts and skills introduced in the previous ones. This approach allows readers to develop their abilities in a logical and systematic manner.

Each chapter begins with a clear explanation of the topic at hand, followed by a series of carefully designed exercises and practice hands. These exercises range from simple to complex, allowing players to gradually increase the difficulty as they master each concept.

Kambites covers a wide range of topics in the book, including:

Hand evaluation and bidding Declarer play techniques Defensive strategies Competitive bidding Partnership communication Throughout the book, Kambites emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He encourages readers to analyze each situation carefully, consider various options, and make informed decisions based on the available information.

One of the strengths of "Improve Your Bridge at Home" is the clarity and precision of Kambites' explanations. He uses simple, easy-to-understand language and provides numerous examples to illustrate key points. This approach makes the book accessible to players of all levels, from beginner to advanced.

In addition to the practice exercises, the book also includes helpful tips and strategies for maximizing one's learning potential. Kambites offers advice on setting goals, maintaining motivation, and creating a structured study plan. These insights are invaluable for players looking to make the most of their home study sessions.

Another notable aspect of "Improve Your Bridge at Home" is its emphasis on the psychological dimensions of the game. Kambites discusses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, managing stress, and developing mental toughness. These skills are essential for any player looking to perform at their best, both at home and at the Bridge table.

Overall, Andrew Kambites' "Improve Your Bridge at Home" is an excellent resource for players looking to take their game to the next level through self-study and practice. With its progressive structure, clear explanations, and wealth of practice exercises, this book provides a comprehensive and effective approach to learning and improving one's Bridge skills.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an experienced player seeking to refine your technique, "Improve Your Bridge at Home" offers a valuable set of tools and strategies that will help you achieve your goals and become a more confident and successful Bridge player.

Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky by Victor Mollo and Nico Gardener

"Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky" is a classic Bridge book that delves into the intricacies of declarer play and defense. Written by Victor Mollo and Nico Gardener, two highly respected Bridge authors and players, this book offers a unique and entertaining approach to exploring the finer points of card play.

Mollo and Gardener's book is not a traditional instructional manual; instead, it is a collection of short stories and anecdotes that illustrate key concepts and strategies in an engaging and memorable way. The authors use a cast of colorful characters, such as the Hideous Hog, the Rueful Rabbit, and the Unlucky Expert, to demonstrate various aspects of card play technique.

Each chapter focuses on a specific theme or principle, such as:

Counting and inference Timing and tempo Deception and psychology Squeezes and endplays Avoidance and elimination plays Through the exploits of their fictional characters, Mollo and Gardener showcase both successful and unsuccessful examples of card play. The characters' triumphs and failures serve to illustrate the key principles and strategies that underlie expert card play.

One of the strengths of "Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky" is the authors' ability to make complex concepts accessible and entertaining. The use of storytelling and humor keeps readers engaged and helps to reinforce the lessons being taught.

Despite the light-hearted approach, the insights and advice offered in the book are invaluable for players looking to improve their card play skills. Mollo and Gardener's wisdom and experience shine through in every chapter, providing readers with a wealth of knowledge and practical tips.

Throughout the book, the authors emphasize the importance of logical thinking, imagination, and adaptability. They encourage readers to think critically about each situation, consider multiple possibilities, and be prepared to adjust their plans as the play unfolds.

Another notable aspect of "Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky" is its emphasis on the psychological dimensions of the game. Mollo and Gardener explore the role of deception, misdirection, and table presence in successful card play. They offer advice on how to read opponents, create false impressions, and exploit vulnerabilities.

While the book is not specifically geared towards beginners, it is a valuable resource for players who have a basic understanding of Bridge and are looking to take their card play skills to the next level. The concepts and strategies presented in the book are applicable to players of all levels and can help to improve one's declarer play and defense.

Overall, Victor Mollo and Nico Gardener's "Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky" is a timeless classic that offers a unique and entertaining approach to exploring the finer points of Bridge card play. With its engaging stories, colorful characters, and wealth of practical advice, this book is a must-read for any player serious about improving their game.

Whether you're an intermediate player looking to refine your technique or an advanced player seeking fresh insights and inspiration, "Card Play Technique or the Art of Being Lucky" offers a delightful and informative journey into the art and science of successful card play.

The Complete Book of Bridge by Albert Dormer

"The Complete Book of Bridge" is a comprehensive guide to the game, written by Albert Dormer, a renowned Bridge player, author, and journalist. This book is designed to be an all-in-one resource for players of all levels, covering everything from the basics of the game to advanced strategies and techniques.

Dormer's approach to teaching Bridge is systematic and thorough. He begins by introducing the fundamental concepts of the game, such as the mechanics of play, hand evaluation, and basic bidding. From there, he gradually builds upon these foundational elements, guiding readers through increasingly complex topics.

The book is organized into several sections, each focusing on a specific aspect of the game:

Bidding: Dormer covers a wide range of bidding systems and conventions, including Standard American, Acol, and Precision. He explains the principles behind each system and provides detailed guidance on how to apply them effectively. Play of the Hand: This section focuses on declarer play and defensive strategies. Dormer offers a wealth of advice on planning the play, managing entries, executing finesses, and handling various suit combinations. Advanced Topics: Dormer delves into more complex aspects of the game, such as slam bidding, competitive auctions, and psychological strategies. He also discusses the use of deceptive plays and the importance of table presence. Partnership Understanding: Throughout the book, Dormer emphasizes the crucial role of effective communication and partnership understanding. He provides guidance on developing bidding agreements, discussing hands, and maintaining a positive and constructive relationship with one's partner. One of the strengths of "The Complete Book of Bridge" is the clarity and precision of Dormer's explanations. He uses simple, easy-to-understand language and provides numerous examples and diagrams to illustrate key points. This approach makes the book accessible to players of all levels, from beginners to advanced.

Another notable feature of the book is its comprehensive coverage of the game. Dormer leaves no stone unturned, addressing a wide range of topics and situations that players may encounter at the Bridge table. This makes "The Complete Book of Bridge" an invaluable reference for players seeking to deepen their understanding of the game.

Throughout the book, Dormer also offers valuable insights into the psychological aspects of Bridge. He discusses the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, managing stress, and adapting to different opponents and situations. These insights are essential for players looking to perform at their best and enjoy the game to its fullest.

In addition to the main text, "The Complete Book of Bridge" also includes a series of practice hands and quizzes that allow readers to test their understanding and apply the concepts they have learned. These exercises are carefully designed to reinforce key points and provide valuable experience in bidding, play, and defense.

Overall, Albert Dormer's "The Complete Book of Bridge" is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their Bridge skills and deepen their understanding of the game. With its comprehensive coverage, clear explanations, and practical advice, this book offers a wealth of knowledge and guidance for players of all levels.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an experienced player seeking to refine your skills and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the game, "The Complete Book of Bridge" is an invaluable addition to your Bridge library.

Beginning Bridge by Patty Tucker

"Beginning Bridge" is a comprehensive guidebook designed specifically for individuals who are new to the game of Bridge. Written by Patty Tucker, an experienced Bridge teacher and author, this book provides a clear, concise, and engaging introduction to the basics of the game.

Tucker's approach to teaching Bridge is based on the idea that learning should be fun, accessible, and stress-free. She breaks down complex concepts into simple, easy-to-understand lessons that allow beginners to grasp the fundamentals quickly and confidently.

The book covers all the essential elements of Bridge, including:

The mechanics of play Hand evaluation and bidding Declarer play and defense Basic conventions and scoring Tucker begins by introducing the basic rules and objectives of the game, providing a clear overview of how Bridge is played. She then moves on to the fundamentals of bidding, explaining how to evaluate hands, make opening bids, and respond to partner's bids.

One of the strengths of "Beginning Bridge" is Tucker's use of practical examples and illustrations. Throughout the book, she includes numerous sample hands and bidding sequences that demonstrate key concepts in action. These examples help to reinforce the lessons and provide valuable experience for beginners.

In addition to the bidding chapters, Tucker also dedicates a significant portion of the book to declarer play and defense. She offers step-by-step guidance on planning the play, managing entries, executing finesses, and developing tricks. Her explanations are clear and concise, making it easy for beginners to understand and apply these essential techniques.

Another notable aspect of "Beginning Bridge" is Tucker's emphasis on partnership communication and understanding. She stresses the importance of developing clear agreements with one's partner and provides guidance on how to effectively discuss hands and strategies.

Throughout the book, Tucker also addresses common challenges and pitfalls that beginners may encounter. She offers advice on handling difficult situations, such as misunderstandings with partners or mistakes in bidding or play. Her reassuring tone and practical tips help to build confidence and resilience in new players.

"Beginning Bridge" also includes a series of practice exercises and quizzes that allow readers to test their understanding and apply the concepts they have learned. These exercises are designed to reinforce key points and provide a sense of progress and achievement.

In addition to the main text, the book features helpful resources such as a glossary of Bridge terms, a summary of basic conventions, and a list of recommended further reading. These resources make "Beginning Bridge" a valuable reference for players as they continue to develop their skills and knowledge.

Overall, Patty Tucker's "Beginning Bridge" is an excellent choice for anyone looking to learn the basics of the game. With its clear explanations, practical examples, and engaging style, this book provides a solid foundation for beginners to build upon.

Whether you're completely new to Bridge or have some experience with other trick-taking card games, "Beginning Bridge" offers a welcoming and accessible introduction to this fascinating and rewarding pastime. By following Tucker's expert guidance and practicing the techniques outlined in the book, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and competent Bridge player.

Bridge Technique Series by David Bird and Marc Smith

The "Bridge Technique Series" is a comprehensive collection of books designed to help intermediate to advanced Bridge players improve their skills and understanding of the game. Written by David Bird and Marc Smith, two highly respected Bridge authors and teachers, this series offers in-depth coverage of various aspects of Bridge technique.

Each book in the series focuses on a specific topic, allowing players to concentrate on improving particular areas of their game. The topics covered include:

Card Play Technique Planning in Defense Tricks with Trumps Eliminations and Throw-ins Deceptive Card Play The Hinterlands Safety Plays Blocking and Unblocking Plays Miracle Plays Countdown to Winning Bridge Bird and Smith's approach to teaching Bridge technique is based on the idea that players learn best through practical examples and hands-on experience. Each book in the series is filled with carefully chosen deal sequences that illustrate the key concepts and strategies related to the topic at hand.

The authors provide detailed analysis of each deal, explaining the reasoning behind the correct play or defense and highlighting the important techniques and principles involved. They also discuss alternative lines of play and common pitfalls, helping readers to develop a deeper understanding of the topic.

One of the strengths of the "Bridge Technique Series" is the clarity and precision of Bird and Smith's explanations. They use simple, easy-to-understand language and provide step-by-step guidance on how to apply the techniques in practice. This approach makes the series accessible to players of different skill levels, from intermediate to advanced.

Another notable feature of the series is the emphasis on developing a player's analytical and problem-solving skills. Bird and Smith encourage readers to think critically about each situation, consider multiple options, and make informed decisions based on the available information. This focus on logical thinking and decision-making is essential for players looking to improve their overall game.

Throughout the series, the authors also address the psychological aspects of Bridge, such as maintaining concentration, managing stress, and adapting to different opponents and situations. They offer valuable insights and advice on how to develop a winning mindset and approach the game with confidence and resilience.

Each book in the "Bridge Technique Series" includes a selection of practice hands that allow readers to test their understanding and apply the techniques they have learned. These hands are carefully chosen to reinforce key points and provide valuable experience in real-game situations.

In addition to the main content, the books also feature helpful resources such as summaries of key points, quizzes, and further reading recommendations. These resources make the series a valuable reference for players looking to review and reinforce their knowledge.

Overall, the "Bridge Technique Series" by David Bird and Marc Smith is an outstanding resource for intermediate to advanced Bridge players looking to take their game to the next level. With its in-depth coverage of various topics, clear explanations, and practical examples, this series offers a wealth of knowledge and guidance for players seeking to master the finer points of Bridge technique.

Whether you're looking to improve your card play, defense, or overall strategy, the "Bridge Technique Series" provides a comprehensive and accessible pathway to becoming a more skilled and confident Bridge player.