Top English Language Books About Mahjong

Research carried out by The-Mahjong-Guide (2008)Very scholarly, comprehensive, but accessible book on
found that if you ask experienced mahjong players forthe classical Chinese version of the game and its
their favourite books on mahjong, these are top 10cultural background. Millington compares mah-jongg to
most frequently recommended recommended Englishother skill games and looks at the rise and influence of
language title:other versions of the game. Clear explanations of the
rules of Chinese mah-jongg, though not a huge amount
1. A Mah Jong Handbook: How to Play, Score, andon strategy.
Winby Eleanor Noss Whitney (orig. 1968 but reprinted7. Beginner's Guide to American Mah Jongg: How to
many times since).Play the Game & Winby Elaine Sandberg (2007)
This classic book dates back to the 1960's. ForFor those who want to play American style mah
beginners and more experienced players wanting tojongg, this book provides clear step by step guidance
improve their strategy. Gives an introduction to theon how to play the official National Mah Jongg League
many variations of the rules. Especially good on therules.
Japanese and US versions. Includes exercises to help8. Improve Your Mah Jongby Patricia A. Thompson
you learn and score cards that can be copied.and Betty Maloney (1993)
2. The Game of Mah Jong Illustratedby Patricia A.This well illustrated book looks at more advanced
Thompson and Betty Maloney (1999)strategies and special hands. Largely focuses on the
Probably the best book for mahjong novices wantingChinese game. Includes a very good score calculator.
to learn how to play. A clear and straightforward9. Mah Jong, Anyone?: A Manual of Western Playby
manual with helpful illustrations. Goes through allKitty Strauser, Lucille Evans, and Tom Sloper (2006)
aspects of play from setting up and scoring to playingAbout the US and other western variations of mah
special hands.jong. Takes the basic rules, scoring, penalties and
3. The Red Dragon & The West Wind: The Winningbonuses and shows how they are adapted in different
Guide to Official Chinese & American Mah-Jonggbyversions. Helps you develop some basic strategies
Tom Sloper (2007)that can be applied whatever version you are playing.
This highly regarded expert covers rules, strategy,10. The Happy Game of Mah-Jong
etiquette and also the history of US and ChineseBy David H. Li (1994)
mah-jongg. Particularly good for those new to theAimed at newcomers to the traditional Chinese version
game.of mah-jong. Li teaches you how to play and build
4. Mah-jongg: From Shanghai to Miami Beachby Anitastrategies, using exercises and logic, and explains the
Luu and Christi Cavallaro (2005)cultural significance and etiquette surrounding the game.
Lovely book that immerses you in the history culture ofAnd most importantly he will convince you of what an
the game, with clear explanations of the rules, beautifulenjoyable and sociable pastime this is!
photos and even recipes to eat while you play!For more recommended mahjong books visit
5. The Book of Mah Jong: An Illustrated Guideby AmyArticle by Jade Bailey of The Mahjong Guide provides
Lo (2001)a wealth of information for mahjong lovers, including
Amy Lo's book is about authentic Chinese mahjong,mahjong news, reviews, site listings and much more.
with information about Cantonese, Shanghai,This article was written by Jade Bailey, a member of
Taiwanese and 12-tile versions. Aimed at all levels ofour news and research team.
player. Some of the explanations are a little difficult toUse of this article is permitted as long as there are
follow but it's a very useful reference none the less.clickable links back to us at The Mahjong Guide and
6. The complete book of Mah-Jonggcredit is given to the author.
By A. D Millington (1997)