Amazon.com Product Description (ISBN 0198691734, Paperback)

Arranged in alphabetical order for ease of reference, this unique, comprehensive new book shows readers how to play virtually every card game in the western world. Here, David Parlett, a professional games inventor and author of numerous books on card games, provides clear and expert advice on both the rules of play and winning strategies. The breadth of the book is amazing, covering everything from classic card games (Bridge, Canasta, Hearts, Poker, Rummy, Whist) to popular party and family games (Old Maid, Newmarket, Oh Hell!) to games played in bygone days (Boston Whist, Hombre, Piquet, Trappola). It also offers sections on great national games such as Belote (France), Cribbage (Britain), Scopa (Italy), and Skat (Germany); explanations of a fascinating array of solitaire games; and entries on games not usually included in books of this type, such as those played with Tarot cards. Card enthusiasts will also find a host of little encountered games with such idiosyncratic names as Cucumber, Go Boom, I Doubt It, Phat, Pishti, Spinado, and Spite and Malice, and will appreciate the glossary of cards terms contained in an appendix. A Dictionary of Card Games is certain to entertain and enlighten anyone who enjoys a good game.