Compelling Reads

EVERY MONTH, WE SEARCH for the best talkable and informative stories to share with you. For me, the most interesting article for March is about the seemingly sedate game of bridge. Played by millions around the world, bridge is one of the most popular – and polite – of card games, and seems an unlikely target for cheaters at the international level. But, ever had that feeling – call it a sixth sense – that something just isn’t right? That’s precisely what led Norwegian bridge player Boye Brogeland to uncover a major scandal. ‘House of Cards’ by John Colapinto (page 80) follows Brogeland’s ordeal after he turned whistle-blower on two top-ranking players. If you have only a passing interest in bridge – or any card game – you’re bound to find this absorbing reading.

On quite a different note, our cover feature, ‘The Healing Power of You’ (page 40) by Erik Vance, examines the power of positive thinking to outsmart medical science. Citing examples of people who have been cured despite taking placebos during treatment trials, Vance presents strong evidence to support the idea that the brain can force healing if a person genuinely believes they will get better.

Be sure to look at the ‘Shetland Island’s Fire Festival’ (page 100) – the photos are truly breathtaking.