REBECCA ROOD'S MAILBAG.......................................

• Dear Rebecca, If you had been dealt a 14 point 5-2-1-5 hand, where both black suits were headed by AK, which suit would you open first ? There doesn't seem to be a consensus of expert opinion on this question. Looking to you for divine guidance, Angel D. Light
• Dear Angel, Using the far superior Zar method for hand evaluation, you would have around 35 zars (21+10+4 ). This would be in my book a powerful reversing hand. Assuming partner has an equal share of the remaing 26 HCP's, his zar total ( even with a flatish hand ) could easily hit the 17 mark . And all you need for game is a combined total of 52 zars. So open 1C and be prepared to do a jump bid in spades. If partner comes up with something in his mitt, such as a couple of decent honour cards, plus 3 card spade support, there must be an excellent play for 4 spades. If other so-called experts say different, ignore them completely. Yours always in the know, Rebecca
• Dear Rebecca, Many of my bridge friends have waxed lyrical about your highly recommended bridge books. So would you please recommend one which might help me to develop a real competitive edge and killer instinct. Yours aiming to be one of the big boys, Ivor Biggen
• Dear Ivor, Yes, I have produced quite a few classics in my time, but there is a book which could be exactly what you are looking for. This has only just been in the shops for about a month, and it was written by a very obliging friend of mine, Roger Enstick. Entitled " Shafting Your Opponents Good And Proper ", you should find this book a real godsend. Yours always in the know, Rebecca