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Title: The Fireside Book of Chess Publisher: Simon and Schuster Authors: Irving Chernev and Fred Reinfeld Genre: Game Collection/Chess Puzzles |
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Level: Advanced Beginner/intermediate What is inside? The book has annotated games divided into numerous tactical and positional themes. There are also mating puzzles with answers at the back. What is it good for? The book is good for players of any standard who want to appreciate some of the greatest games ever played. The puzzles are simple but enjoyable. Well chosen chess fiction adds a lighthearted touch. |
The Good Things:
- Chernev is a masterful annotator. He brings masterpieces to live without alienating even the novice player.
- The fiction is entertaining.
- Cartoons add some humor.
- There is variety in the themes: correspondence chess, women in chess and the two–rook sacrifice to name a few.
The Bad Things:
- The use of English descriptive notation [P-K4 etc] may irritate some readers.
- If someone is looking to improve their chess then this rather lighthearted book will disappoint.
Quote:
"Quick! Take down the position Bert, ' ere comes the foreman!" [ below a cartoon of two workmen up a ladder with a chessboard!]
The Bottom Line: If you want lighthearted entertainment with some great games, amusing puzzles and chess stories then this book is excellent.
Rating: 8/10
Review written by Capamantis.
