📖 Overview
Ron Klinger is an Australian bridge player, teacher and author who has written over 60 books on contract bridge since the 1970s. He is considered one of the most prolific and influential bridge writers globally.
As a player, Klinger has represented Australia in multiple World Championships and international competitions. He was non-playing captain of the Australian Open team that won the Far East Championships in 1985 and 1987.
Klinger's instructional bridge books are known for their clear explanations of bidding systems, card play techniques, and defensive strategies. His works like "Guide to Better Card Play" and "Better Bridge with a Better Memory" have become standard texts used by players and teachers worldwide.
Beyond writing, Klinger has served as bridge columnist for several Australian newspapers and magazines. He continues to teach bridge through his school in Sydney and regularly conducts seminars and workshops internationally.
👀 Reviews
Readers consistently note Ron Klinger's clear explanations of bridge concepts and techniques. Reviews highlight his ability to break down complex bidding and play strategies into digestible lessons.
Likes:
- Step-by-step teaching approach with practice hands
- Logic behind bidding decisions is explained thoroughly
- Many practical examples that reinforce concepts
- Writing style avoids technical jargon
Dislikes:
- Some books contain printing errors in hand diagrams
- Older titles can feel dated in terms of bidding systems
- A few readers note overlap between different Klinger books
- Advanced players may find basic concepts repetitive
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.4/5 average across titles (500+ reviews)
Goodreads: 3.9/5 average (300+ ratings)
Notable review quote: "Finally understood squeeze plays after 20 years of playing thanks to Klinger's crystal clear explanation." - Amazon reviewer
Bridge player forums frequently recommend his "Guide to Better Bridge" series for intermediate players looking to improve their game.
📚 Books by Ron Klinger
Guide to Better Bridge - A comprehensive guide covering bidding systems, card play techniques, and defensive strategies for bridge players at all levels.
Better Bridge with Better Memory - A systematic approach to remembering crucial cards and sequences during bridge gameplay.
Bridge Basics - An introduction to bridge fundamentals including basic bidding, scoring, and elementary card play techniques.
Modern Competitive Bidding - Detailed analysis of competitive auction situations and strategic decision-making in bridge bidding.
Right Through the Pack Again - A collection of bridge stories told from the perspective of each of the 52 cards in the deck.
The Power of Shape - Examination of hand patterns and distributions in bridge bidding and play.
100 Winning Bridge Tips - Practical advice covering common bridge situations and how to handle them effectively.
Bridge: Winning Ways to Play Your Cards - Technical instruction on card play techniques and strategies in various bridge contexts.
5-Card Major Stayman - Detailed exploration of the 5-Card Major Stayman convention and its applications in bridge bidding.
Bridge: Reading the Cards - Methods for analyzing card combinations and inferring card locations during bridge play.
Better Bridge with Better Memory - A systematic approach to remembering crucial cards and sequences during bridge gameplay.
Bridge Basics - An introduction to bridge fundamentals including basic bidding, scoring, and elementary card play techniques.
Modern Competitive Bidding - Detailed analysis of competitive auction situations and strategic decision-making in bridge bidding.
Right Through the Pack Again - A collection of bridge stories told from the perspective of each of the 52 cards in the deck.
The Power of Shape - Examination of hand patterns and distributions in bridge bidding and play.
100 Winning Bridge Tips - Practical advice covering common bridge situations and how to handle them effectively.
Bridge: Winning Ways to Play Your Cards - Technical instruction on card play techniques and strategies in various bridge contexts.
5-Card Major Stayman - Detailed exploration of the 5-Card Major Stayman convention and its applications in bridge bidding.
Bridge: Reading the Cards - Methods for analyzing card combinations and inferring card locations during bridge play.