A detailed discussion of signals, leads, matchpoints, defensive conventions and protecting partner.

Covers leads, signaling, second- and third-hand play, and discarding, and includes practice hands and quizzes.

The author begins this thorough discussion of a neglected but vital topic by examining the real purpose of defensive signalling, and the basic kinds of signals that are available. He goes on to recommend a comprehensive set of signalling agreements, and analyzes more complex situations in the light of these agreements. Most of the chapters are followed by a quiz, and the answer to each signalling problem includes a full 52-card diagram to demonstrate the effectiveness of the recommended signal. The book finishes with a chapter that looks at the signalling methods of eight world-class pairs, with examples of their methods in action. A book any player who is looking to improve will want to read.

Defense is the hardest part of playing bridge, but that doesn't mean that it's impossible to learn. The authors explain how to make a plan as a defender: how to work out from the auction and play what declarer probably has, and which of the strategies available to defenders is likely to be successful.

"This book tells you everything you need to know about the most widely accepted bidding methods. Read about the secrets of hand evaluation that can dramatically improve your game. Learn how to describe your hand to partner so that the partnership can find its way to the best contract. Discover new concepts that keep the bidding conversation straightforward. You'll be confident when you go to your next bridge game because you'll have the solid foundation needed to handle any bidding sequence."--Back cover

Written for complete beginners, this book is based on material that Barbara Seagram uses in her own classes to introduce hundreds of new players to the game every year. The book will take readers to the point where they can enjoy a social game with friends or begin to explore their local bridge club.

Multi-time world champions Karen McCallum and Kit Woolsey explain their relay system, KK Relay, which they have used and perfected for several years. For readers not familiar with relay systems, the relay concept is quite simple: instead of making a descriptive bid, one of the partners makes a call that asks a question. His partner answers that question. That's it! Many such systems are obtuse and difficult to remember, but KK Relay has been structured in a way that both eases memory burden and increases efficiency. A must read for any system wonk.

The squel to ... 25 bridge conventions you should know--Cover.

This Bridge Guide encourages players to see the potential of weak hands. When the defenders know the standard opening lead guidelines and how to use signals and the Defenders' Plan, they start to maximize the partnership's trick-taking potential on defense, even when holding the weakest hand at the table.