
Caryn has been playing American Mah Jongg since her teens. In 2015 she became a Mah Jongg instructor.
Caryn clearly explains the intricacies of American Mah Jongg in a patient manner. She teaches beginners how to read the Chinese tiles, how to read the National Mah Jongg League card, how they work together and ends with teaching advanced mah jongg strategy.
Known around Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV), for being a fun, knowledgeable instructor who incorporates historical facts and stories about the game which makes her lessons extra interesting.
Caryn will teach in homes and creates Mah Jongg events for any size group: tournaments, fundraisers for schools, businesses, clubs and organizations. You can also find her lessons in local restaurants.
To set up a lesson in your home and/or schedule an event use the contact form below.
Read about her in the Washington Post article titled: On Saturdays, millennials play mah-jongg She is proud to be included in the new book "Tiles that Unite, Mah Jongg players across the USA". Check out site on instagram: caryn_letsplaymahjongg

Mah Jongg creates social connections for all ages. It is designed to be played by 4 people, but can be adjusted to 3 or 5 players. Mah Jongg is very popular everywhere; it is a great way to gather with friends, or meet people and make new friends, and even to enjoy family time.
Mah Jongg is fun to play. The clacking of the Mah Jongg tiles has been a heart-warming sound for generations.
The game is a mix of knowledge, strategy and luck which can be enjoyed in a relaxed environment or made more challenging. It is up to you.
Perfect for all generations, everyone, plays Mah Jongg.
Reasons to play Mah Jongg:
Friendship, Laughter, Challenge, Excitement, Mental Stimulation, Fun, Inspiring, Achievement, Updated Yearly,
and it is a Good Time
Thank you for your inquiry.
Tiles That Unite is a celebration of mahjong and a powerful journey into the heart of America—told through the players who’ve made the game their lifeline, tradition, and community. This one-of-a-kind portrait book shares intimate, often unexpected stories from all 50 states, featuring a variety of styles, from American and Chinese to Riichi and Wright-Patterson.
Meet the faces and voices behind the portraits—from a military vet in New York to a Jewish grandmother in New Jersey, a dermatologist in Nevada to a collector in Alaska. Mahjong is a game that quietly unites generations, sparks joy, and forges lifelong friendships.
More than a book about a game, it’s a celebration of connection—how a centuries-old tradition has woven itself into the fabric of American life, culture, and resilience. Whether you play weekly or have never touched a mahjong tile, Tiles That Unite will leave you moved, inspired, and eager to join the table.

"As we continue to play and learn, so many women have commented on how lucky we are to have had you as a teacher. When we play with someone new, it is really apparent. So many people don’t know the rules!!"
Thank you, thank you, you are much appreciated.
Karen S, Great Falls, Virginia
“Caryn makes Mahjongg click—fast, fun, and confidence-building.”
P. Fromer, Chevy Chase, Maryland
“Caryn teaches with extensive knowledge of Mah Jongg. She creates a fun, effective learning experience. At the end of the lesson I had confidence and skills. Thank you. "
E. Sher, Arlington, Virginia
"Caryn taught 4 of us in my home to play Mah Jongg in just 3 lessons. She had us playing and even got into strategy during our lessons. She was fun, personable and very knowledgeable. I can highly recommend her and Mah Jongg! “
Betsy M, Alexandria, Virginia
“Caryn taught me and several other ladies to play Mah Jongg. She was incredibly patient and thorough. But most of all, she showed us how much fun we could have. She has been generous with her time and kind enough to come to our house to refresher “class” as needed. I would recommend Caryn to anyone interested in learning or advancing their Mah Jongg game.”
H. Wallace, Washington, DC
“It starts incomprehensible, but with patient coaching from Caryn you quickly become a pro.”
J. Grant, Washington, DC
“Oh, what a great way to start Mah Jongg!! Caryn is the best instructor ever! She quickly walked us thru the basics of the game and helped us understand the intricacies of playing. And, somehow made it fun! Everyone got plenty of time and attention as she rotated around the table and guided us on our way to Mah Jongg. We all enjoyed the lessons and felt fully prepared to play with others. Plus, she was always available to answer questions via text or email. Regardless of your level—beginner, intermediate or expert, I highly recommend Caryn to help you get to the next level of play. “
L. Phelps, McLean, Virginia
“Caryn is clearly a very skilled mah jongg player and teacher. She was very patient and took the time to break down the game entirely from the start to finish.”
E. Eppolrto, Washington, DC
“Caryn has been a really great teacher. Her love for the game of Mah Jongg translates into everyone enjoying the learning process. She is patient and very helpful in teaching us both the basics and more advanced strategies”.
L. Meador, Washington, DC
“Had a great time learning mah jongg from Caryn. Didn’t think we’d every figure it out, but we did. Thanks, Caryn”
K. Raue, Washington, DC
“I never thought I could learn Mah Jongg, but Caryn made it possible!”
R. Phillip-Anderson, Silver Spring, Maryland
“Charming, fun, great teacher! Logical and thorough in her approach. Great personal attention to each and all students throught the class. Highly recommend. "
P. Levine, N. Bethesda, Maryland
“Caryn is a wonderful instructor—patient, clear and fun. She made the game a joy to play.”
L. Hyland , Washington, DC
“Caryn is awesome. She has a great command of the game with all different strategies. Caryn is patient and quick witted. I recommend her highly”.
J. Tompsons, Reston, Virginia
“Caryn was terrific. So patient, fun and knowlegable! We all had a great time!”
N. Savage, Arlington, Virginia
“Dear Caryn, Thank you for speaking to the Arlington Women Civic Alliance. Your passion for Mah Jongg was inspirational and many of us look forward to learning the game.”
AWCA Program Co-Chairs, Arlington, Virginia