Can I learn a game from a book?

Yes, but it is easier with a guide first. Start with a Pips guide, then use a book to go deeper or to find new games.

Card Games For Dummies if you are new, the Penguin Book of Card Games for the widest choice, Hoyle's when you need an answer.

They are the books we would put in a friend's hands, each for a different reader. If we would not recommend it, it is not here.

Card Games Properly Explained: Clear rules for the classics

Our take

Arnold Marks explains the classics clearly: the rules, a few examples of play, and not a word too many. It is small enough to read in an evening and useful at the table.

It is a good match for Whist, Euchre, Spades and Oh Hell, the trick games where one small rule trips everyone up.

If you want the widest choice of games, the Penguin book has far more.

Games it covers

All card games →

Trick-taking · 4 players
Whist
The classic partnership trick game. Win the most tricks with your partner.
Trick-taking · 4 players
Euchre
A fast partnership game with 24 cards and two powerful jacks.
Trick-taking · 3 to 7 players
Oh Hell
Bid exactly how many tricks you will take. Not one more, not one less.
Trick-taking · 4 players
Spades
Bid your tricks with a partner. Spades beat everything.
Shedding · 4 to 7 players
President
Beat the last play, empty your hand, climb from beggar to president.

Keep reading

Quick answers

Can I learn a game from a book?
Yes, but it is easier with a guide first. Start with a Pips guide, then use a book to go deeper or to find new games.
Which book first?
Card Games For Dummies if you are new, the Penguin Book of Card Games for the widest choice, Hoyle's when you need an answer.
Why these ten?
They are the books we would put in a friend's hands, each for a different reader. If we would not recommend it, it is not here.