The Weak Two Bid in Bridge by Harold Feldheim [rare books]

Book Summary – 

Originally published in 1971 (with a revised edition in 1991), this book provides an intermediate-level guide to one of contract bridge’s most widely used preemptive tools: the weak two bid. Feldheim covers:

• The definition and purpose of a weak two opening—showing a six-card suit in hearts, spades, or diamonds with about 5–11 HCP, aiming to disrupt opponents and describe the hand efficiently. Often accompanies a strong two-club structure. 

• Requirements for opener such as suit quality (typically 2+ top honor cards or strong suit holdings), hand strength adjusted by vulnerability and position, and avoidance of side suits. 

• Responses after a weak two, including:

  • Raise the suit: simple, to play raise (preemptive).

  • 2NT: forcing, asking for outside honors.

  • New suit: forcing and invitational.

  • 3NT or game-level bids: to play.

• Variations and refinements, such as the Ogust convention, discerns suit quality and strength via specific responses. Also references alternatives like Parallel Twos, Lucas twos, and Antispades Weak Twos. 

Feldheim presents clear explanations of when and how to open, bid, and respond to weak two bids, illustrated with examples. He discusses strategic reasoning: preempting opponents, communicating shape, and managing risk. Designed especially for intermediate players, the work sits between basic bidding manuals and advanced convention guides. 

About the Author – 

Harold Feldheim was an American bridge writer and teacher whose works catered to club and intermediate players. In addition to The Weak Two Bid in Bridge, his publications include Five Card Major Bidding in Contract Bridge, Negative, Responsive, and Other Competitive Doubles, Winning Swiss Team Tactics in Bridge, and other titles focused on bidding and tournament strategy. 

Though not widely known outside bridge hobbyists, Feldheim built a reputation for practical, readable teaching. His writing is often found at club-level retailers such as Baron/Barclay Bridge Supplies, where his books are valued for clarity and accessibility. The Weak Two Bid in Bridge was especially useful in the 1970s–1990s as weak two openings gained acceptance in system play.