Confessions of a Bridge Addict by Joey Silver and John Carruthers
From Article Series to Memoir
After two years of work—and encouragement from the Bridge Winners community—Confessions of a Bridge Addict has been published. Written by Canadian Grand Life Master Joey Silver, with translation and co-authorship by John Carruthers, the book continues the reflections Silver began in his article series of the same name during the COVID pandemic lockdown.
A blend of memoir and bridge, the book offers stories from tournaments, lessons learned at the table, and anecdotes from Silver’s other professional life as a public defender in Québec’s court system. Characters from both worlds appear throughout, revealing Silver’s lifelong passion for competition—and for people.
A Unique Bridge Voice
Silver has been part of the Bridge Winners community since 2014. Known for his humour and honesty, he describes himself this way: “Despite all those years of playing, I realized when it comes to playing the game I am rubbish… however when it comes to being a partner I am the best in Canada.”
Silver agreed to turn his article series into a full-length book only on the condition that Carruthers would join him as co-author and editor. The two are longtime friends and bridge partners, with a shared history spanning over 25 years and more than 15 world championships.
Career Highlights
Joey Silver is one of the most decorated players in Canadian bridge. A lawyer from Montreal, he was part of the Canadian team that earned a silver medal at the 1995 Bermuda Bowl—Canada’s best result in that event to date. He also won silver in the 2016 World Senior Pairs.
Other accomplishments include:
- Four North American Championships: 1974 Vanderbilt, 1981 Mitchell Open BAM Teams, 1985 Silodor Open Pairs, 1986 Keohane Swiss Teams
- Five Canadian National Team Championships: 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2005
- Five Canadian Seniors Team Championships: 2007, 2010, 2012, 2018, 2019
- International Titles: 1985 Cavendish Invitational Pairs, 2002 IOC Grand Prix
- Sportsmanship: 1986 John Simon Sportsman of the Year Award (with partner Irving Litvack)
Silver and Carruthers are both members of the Canadian Bridge Federation’s Hall of Fame.
A Bridge Life, Shared
With Silver’s stories and Carruthers’ editorial touch, Confessions of a Bridge Addict delivers a personal and insightful look at the game and its players. Readers will find reflections on bridge, the legal world, and the many characters that shaped Silver’s long and colourful career.
Confessions of a Bridge Addict is available now in paperback (July 15, 2025).
