Simple Squeezes

Simple Squeezes by Hugh Kelsey is a bridge instruction book focused on squeeze plays - a technique where declarer forces defenders to discard crucial cards. The book presents a systematic approach to recognizing and executing squeeze plays at the bridge table. The text contains multiple example hands that demonstrate core squeeze concepts, with clear explanations of the timing, setup, and execution required. Through these examples, Kelsey breaks down complex squeeze situations into understandable components that players can apply to their own games. This technical bridge manual includes practice hands and quizzes that allow readers to test their understanding. The progression moves from basic to advanced squeeze concepts, building a foundation of knowledge. The book stands as a bridge classic that transformed how players approach squeeze plays, making an esoteric technique accessible to the average player. Its enduring influence stems from its clear organization and focus on practical application rather than theory alone.

Bridge players rate Simple Squeezes as one of the clearest explanations of squeeze plays. Readers note the book breaks down complex concepts into understandable steps and provides instructive example hands. Likes: - Clear progression from basic to advanced concepts - Practice hands reinforce learning - Index helps locate specific squeeze types - Humor makes technical content engaging Dislikes: - Dense material requires multiple readings - Some find early chapters too basic - A few readers wanted more practice exercises Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (21 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (12 ratings) BridgeBum.com: 4.5/5 (8 reviews) From reviews: "Finally made squeeze plays click for me" - Amazon reviewer "Not for beginners but worth the effort" - Goodreads user "The examples alone make it worth reading" - Bridge player forum comment "Took three reads to fully grasp but now it's my go-to reference" - BridgeBum review

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🎲 Simple Squeezes was first published in 1975 and remains one of the most accessible texts on squeeze plays in bridge, despite the complexity of the subject matter. ♠️ Hugh Kelsey wrote more than 50 books on bridge and is considered one of the greatest bridge writers of the 20th century. ♣️ The squeeze play technique explained in the book occurs when a defender is forced to discard a card they need to keep, often leading to an extra trick for the declarer. ♥️ Before Kelsey's work, squeeze plays were often considered too difficult for average players to master, but his straightforward teaching approach made them understandable to intermediate bridge players. ♦️ The book builds its lessons systematically, starting with simple single-suit squeezes and progressing to more complex double and triple squeezes, with numerous practical examples from actual gameplay.