There are many books that tell you how to play card games, but this is the only book that tells you where the games come from. See Contract Bridge evolve from Trump & Ruff. Watch Rummy games explode into the 20th century. Learn the true history of the Joker. Always clear and well written, anyone who enjoys games should read this book. Actually, people who don't like games should read this book more!

There are many books describing the rules of card games, but this is the only book that explains why the rules are what they are. David Parlett's text winds through the intriguing history of card games. From early gambling games to modern contract bridge, this book explains why we play what we play. This book is for anyone who ever wanted to know where the jokers came from or what all those suit symbols meant. A great gift for the game players in your family.