Family Games (Hardcover, 2004) by Brian Burns

Family Games aims to be a comprehensive handbook of card games, party games, and classic family activities, packaged in a sturdy 320-page hardcover edition. At first glance, it looks like an appealing addition to any family bookshelf, especially for those who enjoy learning new games or need ideas for group gatherings.

However, despite its promising concept, the execution appears uneven, and the book has earned criticism from readers for one major issue: unclear, incomplete instructions.

• Title: Family Games

• Editor/Author: Brian Burns

• Format: Hardcover (Import)

• Publication Date: January 1, 2004

• Publisher: Grange

• Language: English

• Print Length: 320 pages

• ISBN-10: 1840134313

• ISBN-13: 9781840134315

• Item Weight: 1.28 lb

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📘 What the Book Offers

• A large collection of traditional and lesser-known family games

• Appealing descriptions that often sound fun and inviting

• A well-organized structure and durable hardcover format

• A variety of card, board-style, and party games suitable for mixed-age groups

For families looking for inspiration, the range of games included is quite broad, and the book seems designed to encourage spending time together without relying on screens or modern gadgets.

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⚠️ Where the Book Falls Short

The biggest drawback is the lack of clear, complete rules. According to the single customer review, several game descriptions explain what the game is about, but fail to give enough detail to actually play it. Missing steps, vague rules, and incomplete explanations can make the book more frustrating than useful.

For a book centered on teaching games, clarity is essential — and this appears to be where Family Games struggles the most.

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👍 Pros

• Attractive and durable hardcover edition

• Wide variety of family-friendly games

• Good concept with interesting game ideas

👎 Cons

• Instructions are often incomplete or confusing

• Not reliable for actually learning how to play

• Better, clearer game books exist on the market

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🎯 Overall Impression

Family Games has potential and charm, but it doesn’t fully deliver on its purpose. While it may offer inspiration or nostalgia for experienced game players who already know the mechanics, beginners or families hoping to learn new games from scratch may find it lacking.

If clear instructions and easy-to-follow rules are important — as they usually are for family game nights — then this book may not be the best choice. Many alternative game guides provide far more helpful, accurate gameplay directions.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆ (2 out of 5)