Winning 42: The Strategy and Lore of the National Game of Texas

by Dennis Roberson

Winner, San Antonio Conservation Society Award There are two types of people in those who play 42 and those who need to learn. Winning 42 is written for both. A team game that no one tires of, 42 relies on neither luck nor memory. Skill and strategy separate the best from the rest. Veterans who relish the logic of each domino played will find challenge in the advanced chapters and fascination in the history and lore. Many who’ve grown up with 42 are nonetheless surprised by its utterly Texan heritage, reaching back nearly a century and a quarter. Beginners will find easy instruction in all the basics, from bidding a hand or setting an opponent to the challenge of the 84 hand, and can advance at their own pace. Replete with championship statistics and stories from veteran players and strategists―including many celebrities from astronauts to presidents―Winning 42 illumines a cherished tradition that links Texans from all walks of life. WHAT’S INSIDE In a The Rules and Terms of 42 Bidding How to Play Your Hand after Winning the Bid Helping Your Partner Make a Bid How to Set the Bidder Concentration and Style Taking Every The 84 Bid Setting the 84 Bid Doubles As Trumps and No Trumps Tournament Scoring Talking Across the Board Advanced Bidding and Playing Optional Nel-O, Sevens, and Plunge Lone Star Domino A Century of 42 Players 42-Playin’ Texas Celebrities Statistical Odds

180 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009