Chess is the ultimate mindgame – it requires every single cognitive resource you can muster up. And it most definitely isn’t easy. But books can come to the rescue. Here’s a list of 10 books about chess, for beginners as well as advances players that you should definitely have on your bookshelf.
10 Books About Chess That Every Chess Player Should Read:
My System by Aron Nimzowitsch
This chess classic by the ‘Stormy Petrel’ of the chess world combines wit and irrefutable genius to craft a chess theory unlike any other. A major proponent of the positional school of chess, Nimzowitsch describes here his strategies of manoeuvring that made him one of the biggest players of the game.
A Beginner’s Guide to Winning Chess by Fred Reinfeld
As this title aptly describes, this book is perfect for players just easing into the game. Using an algebraic number system and an alphabet and number grid, Reinfeld presents with simplicity and coherence tactics to win at chess. Not only does his expertise come through, but also we get a glimpse of his teacher’s skill.
The Queen’s Gambit by Walter Tevis
Now a major Netflix series, this historical fiction delves into the life of Beth Harmon, the chess genius. With a prodigious talent that only comes as a gift from above, she makes it to the top of the US game by honing her craft. This story not only details wonderful chess games but also provides inspiration to anyone and everyone who may need it!
Pawn Power in Chess by Hans Kmoch
This one is for the advance players – it might be a little difficult to get through. But don’t let that discourage you – it’s one hell of a ride. Through examples and masterful explanations, Hans drives home the ultimate strength that the pawn holds. Long considered virtually purposeless, Hans shows us the power a pawn possesses.
The Art of Planning in Chess by Neil McDonald
Chess is not for impulsive people. It is a game that the players must invest time and mental efforts in, because it needs to be well thought out. In this book, McDonald takes us from one move to the next, plotting out in detail with meticulous analysis the strategic concepts that underlie it.
The Art of The Checkmate by Georges Renaud and Viktor Kahn
The checkmate is the vital victorious move in chess – and one that has been subject to vast analysis. This book provides a nearly definitive analysis of the checkmate move – with detailed explanations of 23 mating moves. From the pseudo sacrifice and the double check to the smothered mate, Greco’s mate and corridor mate, this one has it all.
My 60 Memorable Games by Bobby Fischer
Fischer is one of the best chess players the world has seen, and in this memoir he offers a player’s perspective on 60 of his best ones. With deep analysis, planning and plotting moves and well as secret strategies, this book is an inventory of intellect.
Secrets of Modern Chess Strategy by John Watson
Chess, like all games, has evolved over the years, and old strategies may not necessarily apply now. Especially since it’s a game of the brain, constant innovation is necessary to win, because everyone possesses old knowledge. In this book, Watson decodes the strategies that are best suited to current times, refining even Nimzowitsch’s ideas.
Think Like A Grandmaster by Kotov
This book is a chess classic as well as a practical training guidebook of sorts for chess players. From trees of analysis to algebraic usage in chess, this book details timeless strategies that are suitable for beginners and masters alike.
Simple Chess by Michael Stean
For beginners to the game plan, Stean offers a guide that doubles as an encyclopaedia of information about chess. But this book is in no way limited to beginners – even players of a more advance level can obtain a huge amount of information from this book.
Also Read: Read These Books To Fall In Love With Maths
