Hobbies, Games & Quizzes Books

Book SynopsisEveryman Chess's Starting Out series has firmly established itself as the leading guide to studying openings for up-and-coming players. These books are distinguished by their easy-to-read layout, the lucid explanations of the fundamentals, and the abundance of notes, tips and warnings to help the reader absorb vital ideas. Now brought together in one volume are...Starting Out: The Pirc/Modern by Joe Gallagher.

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Book SynopsisTwo great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Mastering the Opening by Byron Jacobs and Mastering the Middlegame by Angus Dunnington in one volume. These books are ideal for keen club players who want to improve and are seeking to better their understanding of these key stages of a chess game: the opening, when the battle lines are drawn and the middlegame when the armies commence hand to hand combat. Both books are written in a user-friendly style with plenty of notes, tips and warnings to illustrate key points. The authors are experienced at writing for players of all levels and are particularly noted for their ability to explain ideas in a clear and straightforward fashion. The books are particularly useful for those players who honed their skills with the earlier Everyman Chess books Improve Your Opening Play and Improve Your Middlegame Play.

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Book SynopsisThe Vienna variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined is a complex and fascinating system arising after 1 d4 d5 2 c4 e6 3 Nc3 Nf6 4 Nf3 Bb4 5 Bg5 dxc4. This counterattacking weapon has become increasingly popular over the last decade and is frequently seen in games played at the highest level. Many games featuring elite players such as Garry Kasparov, Magnus Carlsen, Vladimir Kramnik, Viswanathan Anand and Lev Aronian have started out in this variation. ----- In this QGD/Nimzo-Indian hybrid play can become extremely sharp very quickly and an in-depth knowledge of the theory is essential. Black will often grab material but will suffer from a lack of development and an exposed king. This variation will suit well-prepared players who have good tactical awareness and relish hand-to-hand combat. ----- * A complete theoretical survey of an important variation --- * A fascinating analysis of the battle between material and the initiative --- * Written by leading theoreticiansTrade ReviewIf you play the Queen’s Gambit Declined Vienna Variation, then you need to keep this book on hand. It will be your reference volume for a very long time --- Mark Donlan, ChessCafe.com

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Book SynopsisTwo great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Play the Grunfeld by Yelena Dembo and Play the Sicilian Kan by Johann Hellsten, brought together in one volume The Grunfeld is an exciting and dynamic answer to 1 d4, and has become very popular at all levels of chess. A major reason for this is that it has been a long-time favourite of the World's strongest-ever chess player, Garry Kasparov. The Grunfeld very much relies on the principles of the hypermodern school of chess: Black allows White to erect an impressive-looking centre on the assumption that in the long run it could prove to be more of a liability than an asset. Play often becomes very complex and tactical, one of the reasons the Grunfeld appeals to ambitious players. In Play the Grunfeld, however, opening expert Yelena Dembo circumvents this problem by producing a comprehensive and yet workable repertoire for Black, offering a solution against each of White's tries, whether it's a critical main line or a tricky sideline. After reading this book, you will have the required knowledge and confidence to begin playing the Grunfeld in your own games. The Kan is an ideal choice as an opening weapon against 1 e4, as it one of the easiest variations of the Sicilian to learn and play.The Kan is relatively theory free in the traditional sense, and success is more likely to occur through the understanding of development systems and a deep study of the tactical and positional ideas for both sides. In this book Johan Hellsten draws upon his vast experience in the Sicilian Kan, revealing his secrets and showing how Black can adopt this opening and play it with confidence. He provides the reader with a dependable repertoire, demonstrating what to do in the main lines as well as how to deal with White's tricky alternatives.

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Book SynopsisTwo great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Starting Out: The King's Indian by Joe Gallagher and Starting Out: The Sicilian Dragon by Andrew Martin, brought together in one volume. ----- The King's Indian is one of the most exciting defences in chess and is favoured by ambitious and aggressive players. At the highest level it has been a major weapon for World Champions Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov. In this easy-to-read guide, Grandmaster Joe Gallagher goes back to the basics of the King's Indian, studying the key principles of its many variations. Throughout the book there are an abundance of notes, tips, warnings and exercises to help the improving player, while important strategies, ideas and tactics for both sides are clearly illustrated. ----- In Starting Out: The Sicilian Dragon Andrew Martin studies this famous opening in a simplistic way, introducing the crucial initial moves and ideas and taking care to explain the reasoning behind them, something that has sometimes been neglected or taken for grantedFew would disagree that the Sicilian Dragon is one of the most exciting, high profile and controversial openings in chess history. Right from the very beginning of the game Black chooses to unbalance the position, thus maximising his or her chances of playing for a win. The positions reached are dynamic and of a highly tactical nature, with both players very often going straight for each other's throats in search of a quick-fire knockout blow. In these razor-sharp encounters, it goes without saying that one slip by either side can prove to be fatal. Because of its aggressive nature, the Sicilian Dragon is very popular at all levels of chess, while it received an ultimate seal of approval when Garry Kasparov used it as his main weapon to beat Vishy Anand in a World Championship match.Trade Review... Gallagher's work is rightly regarded as a classic and those looking to take up this famous opening could do far worse than begin with his excellent explanation of the key ideas and lines.--- CHESS magazine

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Book SynopsisTwo great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Play The Accelerated Dragon by Peter Lalic and Play the Benko Gambit by Nicolai Pedersen , brought together in one volume. The Accelerated Dragon remains one of Black's most popular choices in the Sicilian, and the attractions are obvious. Black's opening strategy is easy to understand, and his pieces are quickly developed on active squares. Furthermore, White players hoping to attack in the same way as against the traditional Dragon will be shocked by the Accelerated Dragon's greater flexibility and possibilities for a swift counterattack. In this book, Peter Lalić presents a repertoire for Black based on this line. He outlines a reliable system of development with the aim of choosing clear, consistent plans. Firstly, he demonstrates why the Accelerated Dragon exponent need not fear the Yugoslav Attack. Secondly, if White chooses instead the positional Maroczy Bind approach he emphasizes that positional understanding is far more important than memorization of move sequences. The Benko Gambit is undoubtedly one of Black's most dynamic openings. In return for his pawn investment Black gains long-term pressure, which is often so powerful it continues right through into the endgame. White must decide whether to grab the pawn and try to hold on, or to choose a more aggressive approach. Either way, Black generally succeeds in his aim of unbalancing the position from a very early stage. In this book, Nicolai V. Pedersen presents a concise and practical repertoire for Black within the Benko Gambit. Using illustrative games, he examines the critical main lines of the gambit, the tricky sidelines and also explains how to meet the various options White has of avoiding the Benko.

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Book SynopsisTwo great books from the Everyman Chess Library, Fighting the Ruy Lopez by Milos Pavlovic and Open Ruy Lopez by Glenn Flear, brought together in one volume. The Ruy Lopez is a hugely popular opening, and anyone who plays 1 e4 e5 as Black needs to have a reliable answer ready. This book provides a solution. Drawing upon his years of experience facing the Lopez, Grandmaster Milos Pavlovic devises a sound yet ambitious repertoire for Black based on the legendary Marshall Attack. The Marshall is a perfect counter-attacking weapon, as it avoids passive positions and the so-called 'Spanish torture'. Furthermore, Black's tactical and positional goals are usually clear-cut and often involve a direct attack against White's king. The effectiveness of the Marshall is clear if you consider that the last two world champions have both suffered crushing defeats on the white side (Kramnik vs Leko, Brissago 2004; Anand vs Aronian, Morelia 2008) whilst Garry Kasparov always avoided it with White. The Open Ruy Lopez (also known as the Open Spanish) has always been a popular choice at both club level and at grandmaster level, where it has withstood the test of time after decades of close scrutiny. It offers both sides the opportunity for a sharp clash of forces in which the better prepared player will often come out on top. It is therefore no surprise that fighting players such as Victor Korchnoi and Jan Timman have always used the Open Ruy Lopez as an important weapon in their armoury.

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Book SynopsisThese days the move 1 d4 is often used as the precursor to quieter opening choices such as the London System, the Colle System or the Trompovsky. In this book the highly experienced chess author and coach Cyrus Lakdawala goes back to basics, outlining an aggressive repertoire for White based on 1 d4, following up with the traditional 2 c4. The emphasis of the repertoire is to gain space as quickly as possible and set Black the task of finding quick counterplay or face the risk of being overrun. Lakdawala recommends lines with f2-f3 against the Nimzo-Indian, the Petrosian System against the King’s Indian and the Flick Knife (f4 with Bb5+) against the Benoni. With thorough explanations on pawn structures and piece placement, this book provides insight to both strong masters and less experienced players alike. The format is ideal for the chessplayer keen to improve their game. While reading you are continually challenged to answer probing questions – a method that greatly encourages the learning and practising of vital skills just as much as the traditional assimilation of chess knowledge. Carefully selected questions and answers are designed to keep you actively involved and allow you to monitor your progress as you learn. * Presents a powerful, aggressive repertoire starting at move one. * Thorough explanations of typical pawn structures and piece manoeuvres. * Utilizes an ideal approach to chess study.

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Book SynopsisThis match between the number one and number two ranked players in the world is one of the most eagerly-awaited World Championship clashes of recent years. Defending champion Magnus Carlsen first gained the title in 2013 when he beat Viswanathan Anand. He has already successfully defended his title twice, against Anand in 2014 and against Sergey Karjakin in 2016. Carlsen has been the highest ranked player in the world since July 2011. ***** His challenger, Fabiano Caruana, has been playing brilliantly in the run-up to the championship, registering numerous tournament victories against elite competition. He gained the right to challenge Carlsen thanks to a superb victory in the Berlin Candidates event early in 2018 where he scored 9/14, finishing a point clear of the best players in the world. Prior to the match he has drawn to within three points of the champion on the current ratings (Carlsen is 2835, Caruana 2832). Caruana is the first American since the legendary Bobby Fischer to play a match for the supreme title. ----- * All match games analysed in great detail. --- * Portraits of the protagonists with key games and moments from their careers. --- * History of the World Chess Championship.Table of ContentsAbout the Authors 5 Acknowledgments 8 Foreword by Grandmaster Nigel Short 9 World Chess Comes to London 11 History of the World Chess Championship 14 The Champion and the Challenger 34 The Berlin Candidates 2018 39 The 2018 World Chess Championship Match Caruana-Carlsen (Game 1) 63 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 2) 78 Caruana-Carlsen (Game 3) 85 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 4) 92 Caruana-Carlsen (Game 5) 99 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 6) 109 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 7) 124 Caruana-Carlsen (Game 8) 131 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 9) 140 Caruana-Carlsen (Game 10) 150 Carlsen-Caruana (Game 11) 163 Caruana-Carlsen (Game 12) 173 The 2018 World Chess Championship Match, Tie-break Carlsen-Caruana (Play-off Game 1) 182 Caruana-Carlsen (Play-off Game 2) 192 Carlsen-Caruana (Play-off Game 3) 200 Are 12 Games Enough? 205

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Book SynopsisThis book brings together the two greatest names in the history of chess. The author, Garry Kasparov, is the world number one and, by common consent, the greatest player ever. The subject of the book, Bobby Fischer, is the only American to have become world champion and is probably the greatest natural talent the world has ever seen.In the period between 1955 and 1972 Fischer, more or less single-handedly, took on the might of the Soviet Chess Empire, and won. During this time Fischer scored astonishing successes the like of which had not been seen before. These included 11/11 in the 1963/64 US Championship and match victories (en route to the World Championship) by the score of 6-0 against two of the strongest players in the world, Mark Taimanov and Bent Larsen. The climax of Fischer''s campaign was his unforgettable match win in Reykjavik in 1972 against Boris Spassky. Fischer is almost equally well-known for his temperamental behaviour away from the board, as his play on it. He made extreme demands of all those around him including tournament organisers. When these demands were not met he often refused to play. The 1972 match against Spassky required the intervention of no less than Henry Kissinger to smooth things over. In 1975 when he was due to defend his title against Anatoly Karpov, Fischer was completely unable to agree terms with FIDE (the World Chess Federation) and was defaulted. After this he more or less gave up chess, playing only once, a ''return'' match against Spassky in 1992. In this book, a must for all serious chessplayers, Kasparov analyses deeply Fischer''s greatest games and assesses the legacy of this great American genius.

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Book SynopsisThe Ruy Lopez is perhaps the most classical of all chess openings. It dates back to the 16th century and has featured in the opening repertoire of every modern world champion. It is a highly flexible variation: Bobby Fischer used it to create numerous powerful strategic masterpieces. In the hands of Anatoly Karpov it led to many of his trademark positional squeezes, whereas Garry Kasparov often used it as a springboard for his typically powerful attacks. Opening Repertoire: The Ruy Lopez is a modern examination of this perennial favourite. Joshua Doknjas has put together a repertoire for White based firmly around contemporary trends in the Lopez. He examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. ? A complete repertoire for White in the Ruy Lopez.? A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.

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Book SynopsisThe Modern Benoni is just about the most aggressive method that Black can choose to counter White's 1 d4. In the main line variations Black allows White to have a preponderance of central pawns which, traditionally, grants the first player the advantage. However, in return, Black gains the opportunity for tremendously dynamic counterplay. This places White and under immediate pressure as any inaccurate moves can prove to be disastrous. ----- In this book, FIDE Master John Doknjas examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. With thorough variations and explanations on pawn structures and piece placement, this book provides insight for both strong masters and less experienced players alike. The format is ideal for the chessplayer keen to improve their game. While reading you are continually challenged to answer probing questions - a method that greatly encourages the learning and practising of vital skills just as much as the traditional assimilation of chess knowledge. ----- * A complete repertoire for Black in the Modern Benoni. --- * A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.Trade ReviewDoknjas provides the most original and comprehensive Benoni repertoire of recent works. It shows how to fight against not only the positional variations with Nf3, but also the sharpest attacking lines White can throw at his opponent. An excellent resource for the practical player - John Watson, Chess Life. ---- I have to say that I regard this as an excellent opening book.Doknjas provides excellent explanations, both wordy and in concrete lines, and his Q&A and Exercises are always relevant to the material. When he feels appropriate, he is not afraid to recommend lesser-played lines and he backs up his choices with solid analysis and reasoning. His recommendations appear sound and those lines I have tested with an engine do not fall foul of computer analysis... I recommend this book to anyone who is already playing the Modern Benoni or who is looking to take it up. Even players who face the Benoni from the White side will get benefit from this book, at least an idea of the current state of theory of this opening, but obviously bear in mind that it is a repertoire book from Black's viewpoint. - Colin Purdon, British Chess News

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Book SynopsisGarry Kasparov on Garry Kasparov: Part III is the final volume in a major three-volume series made unique by the fact that it records the greatest chess battles played by the greatest chessplayer of all-time. Kasparov''s series of historical volumes have received great critical and public acclaim for their rigorous analysis and comprehensive detail regarding the developments in chess that occurred both on and off the board. The first two volumes in this series saw Kasparov emerging as a huge talent, toppling his great rival Anatoly Karpov and then defending the World Championship title on three occasions. This third volume focuses on the final 12 years of Kasparov''s career up until his retirement from full-time chess in 2005. This period witnessed three further World Championship matches: wins against Short (London 1993) and Anand (New York 1995) before the loss against Kramnik (London 2000) which finally ended Kasparov''s 15-year tenure as world champion. This period also saw Kasparov achieve a colossal 2851 rating (1999), a record which stood until 2013. Despite loss of the World Championship, Kasparov continued to be ranked as the world number one and dominated the elite tournament circuit. He won the Linares super-tournament for four consecutive years (1999-2002) with the fourth of these victories in 2002 concluding an unprecedented run of ten straight wins in the world''s elite events (Linares 4, Wijk aan Zee 3, Sarajevo 2 and Astana 1). The games in this volume feature many masterpieces of controlled aggression played against the world''s absolute best.

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Book Synopsis"First the idea and then the move!" Miguel Najdorf used to say in his habitually enthusiastic fashion; that statement is the perfect summary of planning in chess. Planning is of crucial importance in chess and yet this is an area that has not been well discussed or explained to ambitious players who wish to improve. A very well known saying in chess is "Better a bad plan than no plan at all". Playing without a plan - effectively staggering from one move to the next - is a recipe for disaster. It is essential to have some kind of idea of what you are trying to achieve and how to go about it. However, planning is not a straightforward matter. A good plan might be very short, lasting just two or three moves. Another plan might require almost an entire game to implement. A plan can be highly ambitious and complex or somewhat modest and simple. In chess, as in life, circumstances can change quickly and when they do, new plans are needed. How is a player expected to juggle all these different concepts while dealing with the immediate problems posed by the opponent's most recent move? In this book, grandmaster and experienced author Zenon Franco explains planning in detail. He organises material in terms of: typical structures, advantage in space, manoeuvring play, simplification and, finally attack and defence. Using games played by elite players he explains how plans are formed and carried out in these different scenarios. If you want to take your game to the next level, then Planning Move by Move will enable you to do this.Trade ReviewThe Paraguayan is developing a reputation as an excellent author, not least when it comes to general instructional volumes for Everyman's Move by Move series. Planning is one of those topics which often goes unstudied by the club player, but is a very important skill to master.--CHESS Magazine; I can recommend the book very highly as a collection of excellent and often beautiful top level games with first rate annotations. Stronger club standard players, in particular, will find it helpful in improving not just their planning skills but their tactical skills as well. ---Richard James, British Chess News

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Book SynopsisChess puzzle books are undoubtedly popular - and with good reason. Solving chess puzzles helps to sharpen a player's tactical and combinational skills. This ability is absolutely fundamental for chess development. You won't get better at tennis until you can consistently hit the ball with accuracy and you won't get better at chess until you improve your ability to calculate. It is that simple and there are no shortcuts. Many puzzle books take a far too simplistic approach and offer endless positions where the solution is nearly always along the lines of: queen takes something check, king takes queen, check, check and a pretty mate. Aesthetically pleasing perhaps but of minimal use for actual improvement as the patterns are so familiar. Practical Chess Puzzles avoids this pitfall. The positions chosen are far more like those that actually appear on the board during the vast majority of games. Furthermore, at all stages, the puzzles are ranked, enabling the student to gauge progress and identify and correct weaknesses. * 600 puzzles featuring instructive, typically "game-like" positions * A ranking system to assess progress.Trade ReviewPractical Chess Puzzles largely delivers what is promised. The authors say that they are writing for players from 1200-2200-quite a range!- and the puzzles in each section track from less to more complex... there is an overt effort to present lesser known, diverse examples, featuring North American players and a full range of position types. All this serves to keep solvers on their toes - John Hartmann, Chess Life. In summary, the content lives up to the title and any tournament player from say 1200 Elo to perhaps 2200 will derive much benefit from working through the content. It is good to find a whole tranche of new material and ideas from real games played by mostly amateur players - John Upham, BritishChessNews.com

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Book SynopsisThe Sveshnikov Variation of the Sicilian Defence provides a battleground for one of the key conflicts in chess: structure versus activity. Black voluntarily accepts a weak pawn formation but in return obtains easy development and excellent piece activity. This is a line that finds favour with aggressive, attacking players who are confident in their tactical ability. The idea of playing ...e5 in the Sicilian is an old one but the modern Sveshnikov treatment was developed in the 1970s, since when it has featured in the repertoires of numerous elite players. It is currently experiencing great popularity due to the fact that it was Magnus Carlsen's choice in his World Championship Match against Fabiano Caruana in London 2018. Carlsen's success with the line was a significant factor in his eventual victory in the match. Since then he has continued to use the Sveshnikov with great success. In Opening Repertoire: The Sveshnikov leading chess author Cyrus Lakdawala guides the reader through the complexities of this dynamic variation and carves out a repertoire for Black. He examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black in the Sicilian Sveshnikov. * A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.Trade ReviewIt is an exceptional book and clearly explains the themes and structures that are the hallmarks of this rambunctious line. As a FIDE Trainer, I am highly recommending the book to students who are looking for dynamic, piece play lines as Black: World Chess Federation FIDE Trainer, Michael Ciamarra --- So why should someone buy this book? In my opinion the reason is simple. I cannot afford to take lessons from an IM like Lakdawala or a GM, but the questions he poses at critical moments are what one needs to improve. So buying this book or others written by Lakdawala is like having a coach at home: Davide Nastasio, Georgia Chess

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Book SynopsisThe French Defence is a classical opening that has featured in the repertoire of many elite grandmasters. Black generally concedes a slight spacial disadvantage early but in return gains a sound structure and middlegame opportunities to undermine the white centre. A close study of the French Defence can be very rewarding for all players as the structures and themes that arise are found in numerous other openings. In this book grandmaster Damian Lemos guides the reader through the complexities of this dynamic opening and explores all the important variations. This series provides an ideal platform to study chess openings. By continually challenging the reader to answer probing questions throughout the book, the Move by Move format greatly encourages the learning and practising of vital skills just as much as the traditional assimilation of opening knowledge. Carefully selected questions and answers are designed to keep you actively involved and allow you to monitor your progress as you learn. This is an excellent way to study any chess opening and at the same time improve your general chess skills and knowledge. * Essential guidance and training in the French Defence * Analyses all key variations * Utilizes an ideal Q+A approach to chess study

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Book Synopsis"To be passive... is fatal to the beginner or medium player - such players must be aggressive. He must attack, because only in that way can he develop his imagination, which is a very important thing." This quote comes, perhaps surprisingly, from Jose Capablanca, a world champion far better known for his brilliant strategic and positional play than his attacking prowess. This emphasizes the fundamental importance of having a clear understanding of how to build up and execute an attack. Every chess player loves to attack. Directing one's forces towards the enemy king, probing to create weaknesses and ultimately crashing through with a brilliant sacrifice is always a thrilling experience. However, attacking play must always be based on sound principles and carried out in a forceful and logical manner. This is not always a straightforward task. In this book, the highly experienced author and grandmaster Neil McDonald guides the reader through all the complexities of attacking play. Topics include: * Attacking a king trapped in the centre. * Exploiting weaknesses to develop an attack. * Preventing reinforcements from rescuing the king.Trade ReviewThe strength of this book is the hundreds of questions posed by GM McDonald, definitely important if one is serious in improving one’s own chess. Final thoughts: I’m happy with this book, I think I’m getting the training I paid for, and I look forward to more chess books to enrich me and teach me as chess player, Davide Nastasio, Chessnewsandviews.com

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Book SynopsisRewire Your Chess Brain is not your average chess book. It does not deal with opening theory or middlegame strategy. It focuses purely on problems and studies, all of which are the results of artificial construction rather than scenes from real-life battles. In a chess study, White has to play and win (or draw). In a chess puzzle, White has to force mate in a stipulated number of moves. The starting positions in both forms rarely resemble anything found over the board in real life play. However, the solutions are invariably surprising and often quite beautiful. The best examples of both forms have often been compared to great works of art. However, these are not mere gallery pieces, lacking practical application in real life play. Solving these puzzles can be extremely challenging and will, without question, improve the "real world" tactical ability of anyone attempting to do so. Prolific chess author and coach Cyrus Lakdawala has been intrigued by studies and problems all his life. When training his students he often sets them studies and problems to solve. Many of them who have adopted this technique have seen extraordinary increases in their chess ratings. In this book Lakdawala assembles the problems and studies that are most effective to improve tactical ability. Work your way through this book and you will undoubtedly see the results in your own games.Trade Review... the diligent reader who works their way through this new release from Everyman should improve not only their calculation but their creativity." CHESS Magazine, Oct 2020

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Book SynopsisThe Grünfeld Defence is is a combative reply to 1 d4 which has been favoured by many world champions including those two legends of the game, Bobby Fischer and Garry Kasparov. It is an opening in the hypermodern style, in that Black generally allows White to build a strong centre early on in the expectation of being able to undermine it in the middlegame play. Opening Repetoire: The Grünfeld Defence book cuts through the dense theory that surrounds this opening and establishes a straightforward repertoire is based around consistent strategies and concepts. It has all the information necessary to enable the reader to begin playing the Grünfeld with confidence. There are also “Grünfeld-type” suggestions to counter White systems based on the English and Réti openings. In Opening Repertoire: The Grünfeld Defence, Nigel Davies guides the reader through the complexities of the Grünfeld and carves out a repertoire for Black. He examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black against 1 d4. * A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.

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Book SynopsisIt is hard to understate the importance of tactic ability to overall chess proficiency. Of course other elements such as a knowledge of opening play and an understanding of strategy are also important. However, it is undoubtedly the case that 99% of games are won or lost because one player either spots or overlooks a tactic. Consider your own games and just imagine how much stronger you would be if you never overlooked a tactical idea. The good news is that your tactical ability is not some genetically-acquired unalterable trait. Tactical ability can always be improved through the application of diligent practice. Tactical themes are repetitive. The same arrangements of pieces occur again and again and a continual study of the subtle interactions between the forces will inevitably lead to a greater sharpness in actual play. In Tactical Training, experienced chess coach and prolific author Cyrus Lakdawala guides the reader through numerous tactical themes. Topics include: * Checkmating patterns. * The 32 major combinational concepts. * Numerous positions ranked in terms of level of difficulty. The final chapter focuses on a 2020 online match between Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura, currently the top two ranked players in blitz, the form of chess where tactics predominate.Trade ReviewThe material is divided into 33 chapters, 32 of them covering all the most important themes by means of relevant examples accompanied by tons of examples, written in Lakdawala's trademark humoristic style which I have always greatly enjoyed as it makes the reading a lot easier and more fun... So, does a study of tactics work? In my opinion the unequivocal answer is yes...This book will definitely help lift your tactical acumen and speed when playing and solving., Carsten Hansen, American Chess Magazine

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Book SynopsisGoethe once wrote, "Everything is both simpler than we can imagine, and more complicated than we can conceive." He could well have had chess endgames in mind. Endgames have fewer pieces on the board than middlegames but this does not necessarily make them "easier" to play or understand. Tactical expertise is, understandably, generally associated with middlegame (and sometimes opening) positions. However, tactics are also crucial in endgames - a point that is sometimes overlooked. Even some quite simple looking pawn endgames can feature complex tactical ideas. Tactics in endgames also tend to be very different to middlegame tactics. As well as the familiar themes of pins, skewers and forks, endgames also feature unique concepts that rarely occur in middlegames such as pawn breakthroughs, manoeuvring for zugzwang and active use of the king as an aggressive unit. In this book the highly experienced chess author and coach Cyrus Lakdawala guides the reader through the complexities of endgame tactical play. Lakdawala assembles positions that are most effective to improve tactical ability. Work your way through this book and you will undoubtedly see the results in your own games.Trade ReviewIn summary, an excellent endgame coaching/training manual to improve your analytic powers with some instructive, beautiful and entertaining games, studies and problems - FM Richard Webb, BritishChessNews.com

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Book SynopsisThe Budapest Gambit (1 d4 Nf6 2 c4 e5) is an aggressive, dynamic approach for meeting 1 d4 and is a great line for throwing opponents onto their own resources. It is certainly double-edged as Black moves the same piece twice early on and also sacrifices a pawn. This pawn is often quickly regained but one of the great advantages of the Budapest is that if White tries to hang on to the pawn (and many players do) Black can quickly whip up a ferocious attack. A great number of materialistic but unprepared White players have found themselves swiftly demolished by Black's tremendously active pieces. When White is more circumspect and allows Black to regain the pawn, play proceeds along more sedate strategic lines where Black enjoys free and easy development. Experienced chess author and coach Andrew Martin examines all key variations of the Budapest. There is an emphasis on typical middlegame structures and the important plans and manoeuvres are demonstrated in numerous instructive games. * Includes complete repertoires for Black with both 3...Ng4 and 3...Ne4 * Comprehensive coverage featuring several new ideas * Take your opponents out of their comfort zone!Trade ReviewIn summary, play the Budapest Gambit is a comprehensive look at the main line and the Fajarowicz Gambit in a refreshingly objective way. The wealth of annotated games is a joy in itself and these are combined with the author's ideas in keeping this enterprising gambit afloat within the unfriendly world of examination by engines. One of the author's best works. - John Upham, British Chess News; this balanced and honest volume should be essential reading for anyone wanting to add the Budapest to their armoury. Sean Marsh, CHESS Magazine

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Book SynopsisEvery chessplayer, from beginner to world champion, loves to win a game with a brilliant attacking display. However many, if not most, attacks that end in victory do so due to inaccurate defence. This may be due to simple tactical miscalculation or perhaps a more fundamental misunderstanding of the important principles of defence. Furthermore, many attacks that are launched are simply unsound but succeed because many players feel uncomfortable when forced to defend, get flustered and make mistakes. In this book, highly experienced chess author and coach, Neil McDonald addresses these issues. Defensive skill is crucial in chess. Good, accurate defence can win a game just as well as a fine attacking display can, so expertise in this department is essential for any player wishing to improve their game. With thorough explanations, questions, and exercises, this book provides fascinating material to enable you to hone your defensive skill and not feel intimidated when your opponent hurls pieces at your king.Trade Review"The examples in the book reflect very well the practical decisions from our daily chess practice. McDonald explains in clear language the dynamic techniques and these are certainly based on 'human' solutions to the problems of defense. The author also does not fail to let his years of experience as a coach shine through between the lines. The interactive style ensures a smooth reading experience, where you sometimes feel like you are sitting at the table with McDonald... Thanks to that coaching wisdom, the psychological side of defending is also frequently discussed.", Translated from Schaaksite.nl

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Book SynopsisThe Nimzo-Indian Defence (1 d4 Nf6 2 c4 e6 3 Nc3 Bb4) and the Queen's Indian Defence (1 d4 Nf6 2 c4 e6 3 Nf3 b6) are two classic systems for Black to meet 1 d4. They are popular at all levels and have been played by virtually every world champion. They enable Black to gain a firm foothold in the centre at an early stage and White is not permitted the easy space advantage that occurs with many other defences to 1 d4. Black does not seek to engage White in immediate battle but postpones conflict for the middlegame when an understanding of themes and plans will be paramount. In Opening Repertoire: The Nimzo-Indian and Queen's Indian Defences, highly experienced chess author and coach Nigel Davies guides the reader through the complexities of these two lines and carves out a repertoire for Black. He examines all aspects of these complex systems and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black against 1 d4. * A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.

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Book SynopsisBenjamin Katz is a renowned chess coach with over 20 years experience coaching students of all ability levels throughout the United States. He has helped numerous students improve and achieve chess success. This book details the training program he has developed based on this extensive experience. It cultivates the core skill set required to advance beyond the basics in chess. Included are key strategies, basic endgame positions and techniques, information on what to do when you're stuck, how to convert an advantage, and a high-level opening repertoire for both black and white. There are also numerous practical exercises that utilize a combination of recent examples from the games of Benjamin's students, as well as games played by the top players in the world, both contemporary and from the game's history. Benjamin Katz is a National Chess Master and the co-founder of Growing Minds Chess Academy, a progressive chess instruction company in New York City that incorporates the latest in modern educational theory with tried and trusted approaches to chess learning.Table of Contents* Four Fundamental Endgame Themes * Basic Tactics * Blunders * How to Win in the Endgame When You're Up Material * Defense * Chess Strategy Fundamentals: Pawn Structures * Fun Chess * Middlegame Strategy * An Opening Repertoire for White * An Opening Repertoire for Black * Solutions

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Book SynopsisThe Slav (1 d4 d5 2 c4 c6) is a great choice against 1 d4 for players who are after a solid position from the opening but one that also contains dynamic possibilities. The pawn on c6 guarantees Black a firm foothold in the centre but there is also the ever-present possibility to capture on c4 and possibly even try to hold on to this pawn. The Slav is ideal for combining reliability with a promise for dynamic counterplay in the middlegame. In Opening Repertoire: The Slav, highly experienced chess author and coach Cyrus Lakdawala guides the reader through the complexities of the Slav and carves out a repertoire for Black. He examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black against 1 d4. * A question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.

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Book SynopsisA highly adventurous repertoire designed to meet 1 e4 with 1...e5 and take the initiative! The main problem Black faces in answering 1 e4 with 1...e5 is the plethora of opening systems available to White: the Ruy Lopez, Giuoco Piano, Scotch, Ponziani, King's Gambit, Vienna, Bishop's Opening and so on. Each is likely to be White's pet line, which usually means conducting the chess battle on the opponent's turf. One solution is to study the main lines of all these openings and hope to remember what to do if they appear on the board. Another, more enterprising approach is to turn the tables and make White fight on your territory. Adopting the latter course, CC-SIM Jonathan Tait shares their investigations into a myriad of disregarded, "disreputable" responses, which can set White thinking as early as move three. These lines are greatly under-estimated by contemporary theory and include weird and wonderful variations such as the Calabrese Counter-Gambit (1 e4 e5 2 Bc4 f5), the Wagenbach Defence to the King's Gambit (1 e4 e5 2 f4 exf4 3 Nf3 h5), the Romanishin Three Knights (1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 Nc3 Bc5), the Two Knights Ulvestad Variation (1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 Bc4 Nf6 4 Ng5 d5 5 exd5 b5) and ultra-sharp lines of the Jaenisch Gambit (1 e4 e5 2 Nf3 Nc6 3 Bb5 f5). The theory of the variations in this book is generally poorly understood. This has made them successful at all forms of play, including against online computer-assisted assault.Trade Review"The analysis is thorough and makes much use of engine analysis as well as human..."."JTs prose is chatty and amusing and certainly keeps the reader engaged." John Upham, British Chess News; "brilliant book... beautifully written, a chunky opening monograph full of interesting lines and suggestions." Paul Kane, The Caissa Kid

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Book SynopsisThe O’Kelly variation of the Sicilian Defence (1 e4 c5 2 Nf3 a6) is a wonderful system for those who enjoy playing Sicilian positions but don’t want to get bogged down in heavy theory. The O’Kelly relies far more on an understanding of general strategic ideas and middlegame planning than on rote memorisation of opening moves. One of the benefits of the O’Kelly is that White’s natural continuation of 3 d4, although very frequently played, permits Black confortable development and an easy game. In Play the O’Kelly Sicilian, highly experienced chess author and coach Andrew Martin guides the reader through the complexities of the O’Kelly and carves out a repertoire for Black. He examines all aspects of this fascinating opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black against 1 e4. * All key variations analysed in detail.

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Book SynopsisSimon Williams (the Ginger GM) is passionate about the Dutch Defence. He has played it all his life, knows it inside out and is considered one of the world's leading experts on this very dynamic Black counter. In this book he shares his extensive knowledge, holds nothing back and carves out a formidable repertoire for aggressive black players.The great thing about the Dutch is that it solves several opening problems with Black. What to do against 1 d4? Play 1...f5! How to counter the English (1 c4)? Play 1...f5! again. What about the transpositional Reti Opening 1 Nf3? Yep. You've guessed it. Play 1...f5! Get the f-pawn to f5 and then plan to follow up with ...d6 and ...e5, creating a dynamic central pawn wall. If White doesn't counter accurately (and many players won't) this lays the foundations for a powerful middlegame kingside attack. The Killer Dutch Rebooted is a swash-buckling opening that favors the brave and fearless chess player.- A dangerous system where Black can easily whip up a deadly kingside attack.- Latest updates on Dutch theory.- Plans against all major variations and sidelines.Williams is well known for his swashbuckling, attacking play and his entertaining and instructive commentary. He is your ideal guide to the Killer Dutch.

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Book SynopsisThe vast majority of chess games witness familiar strategies and well known tactical motifs. These are the games that you will find in the anthologies and opening repertoires. Sometimes however, games appear that seem to have been played on a different planet. Conventional strategies go out of the window. Familiar tactical themes are nowhere to be seen. Chaos has broken out. The pieces appear to be in open rebellion and are steadfastly refusing to do the natural jobs that they were designed for. Having to navigate a path in such a game can be a nightmare. Do you rely purely on calculation? Is it better to trust your instincts? Can you assess the position using "normal" criteria? In order to answer these questions, prolific chess author and coach Cyrus Lakdawala has assembled a collection of brilliantly unconventional and irrational games. The positions in these games appear almost random. Kings have gone walkabout, pieces are on bizarre squares, huge pawn rollers are sweeping all before them. Irrational chess is like nothing you've seen before. As well as being highly instructive this is a hugely entertainging book. Do not adjust your set. It's chess, Jim, but not as we know it.Trade ReviewLakdawala takes us on a helter-skelter journey through the craziest games and positions ever seen! It’s a fun read packed with games you won’t feel sorry to have seen once in your life! - Matthew Sadler, New in Chess Magazine

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Book SynopsisHaving you ever been tortured at the chessboard? If so, then you have probably been a victim of pressure play. Elite players are brilliant exponents of pressure play. In situations where they have either a tiny advantage or no advantage at all they are highly adept at constantly setting problems for their unfortunate opponents. The position on the board may appear lifeless but they can probe and find plans and regroupings that will constantly ask their opponents difficult questions. These can be countered only by continual alert and accurate defence and we all know how difficult and wearing that can be. The arch exponent of pressure play is world champion Magnus Carlsen. Carlsen is superb in this area of the game and consistently defeats world class opposition from simplified positions where he has no advantage whatsoever. How does he do it? In this book, the highly experienced author and coach Neil McDonald analyses the finest examples of pressure play. In doing so he teases out the fundamental concepts that enable players like Carlsen to torture their opponents mercilessly. * Paralyse the enemy pieces. * Target the weakest squares on the board. * Increase and exploit a space advantage.

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Book SynopsisAre you a parent of a junior chess player who feels that because you don't know how to play chess, you can't help your child? Or are you an adult or junior chess player who has taken private chess lessons for years, but feels you haven't been progressing? In both cases, there can be a lot of reliance on a chess coach who has been given free rein with lesson content and direction. They probably have some sort of plan but it is likely to be a plan used for all their students. This is not ideal. More important is a well-thought out, individualized plan, that focuses on a specific player's unique strengths and weaknesses. Formulating such a plan is crucial for making improvements. Victoria Doknjas and her son John Doknjas are an ideal writing partnership to tackle this topic. John is a FIDE Master who has already established himself as an excellent and highly-respected author who understands the improvement process very well. Victoria has over a decade of experience navigating the competitive chess arena with her three master-level sons, including also running her own chess academy. Together they offer a unique and informative insight to those wanting to get more out of their chess studies, as well as presenting practical advice in areas including: * Identifying important goals and how to work towards them. * Understanding how to objectively analyse your games. * Maximising the efficiency of software and engines for learning. Reading this book can broaden your horizons in the essential areas of chess study, and ideally let you better evaluate what your chess coach is teaching you. And if you don't have a chess coach, this book will provide you with an excellent foundation for serious chess study.

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Book SynopsisThe hero has no advantage whatsoever but somehow manages to keep setting the opponent problems. Their opponent goes slightly astray and suddenly hero has a tiny advantage. It’s not much but now that they have a little something to work with, they are in their element. They play accurately and remorselessly and make life incredibly difficult for their opponent. Suddenly, and almost imperceptibly, their advantage increases. Further tiny inaccuracies follow, hero turns the screw and bags the full point. Their opponent is left shaking their head, wondering where on earth they went wrong. This is the squeeze and the great champions have been capable of squeezing opponents to death. José Capablanca, Tigran Petrosian, Anatoly Karpov and, in the current era, Magnus Carlsen are legendary in this respect. How do they do it? How do they set problems in apparently sterile positions? How can they continuously manage to defeat world class opposition from positions that others would simply give up as drawn? In this book, Cyrus Lakdawala explains the mechanisms commonly used in squeeze plays. Using examples from the world’s greatest strategic masters he unpicks the secrets of the squeeze.

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Book SynopsisThe Barry Attack is a highly aggressive system that arises after 1 d4 Nf6 2 Nf3 g6 3 Nc3 d5 4 Bf4. Although the concept of the Barry Attack has been known for a century or so, the modern interpretation (as with a number of other dynamic white systems) has mainly been developed by English grandmasters over the past couple of decades. This “modern interpretation” is often not very subtle. If Black provides a target by castling early on the kingside, White will often let rip with moves such as Qd2, Bh6, 0-0-0 and h4-h5, playing very directly for a quick checkmate. If this strikes you as too crude to have a chance against a sophisticated and competent defender, then a quick glance through this book will undoubtedly change your mind. You will witness countless games where very strong players are destroyed on the black side in less than 30 moves. Sometimes a lot less. This makes the Barry an ideal weapon for those who love to attack. Black’s defence has to be very accurate. If not, a quick annihilation is on the cards. Play the Barry Attack is the ideal guide to this fascinating opening. Anyone who reads this book carefully and studies all White’s attacking ideas will have a fearsome weapon in their armoury.

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Book SynopsisThe Tarrasch Variation of the Queen's Gambit Declined is a fierce counter-attacking line arising after 1 d4 d5 2 c4 e6 3 Nc3 c5. In this variation Black gains free and easy piece play but in return usually has to accept the structural weakness of an Isolated Queen's Pawn (IQP). In the early development of chess theory this line was somewhat frowned upon due to the vulnerability of the IQP. However, Siegbert Tarrasch, after whom the opening is named, famously declared that, "he who fears an Isolated Queen's Pawn should give up chess". The Tarrasch has had many powerful adherents over the years including the legendary Garry Kasparov who made much use of it in the early part of his career. In this book Cyrus Lakdawala guides the reader through the complexities of the Tarrasch and carves out a repertoire for Black, based on a modern treatment popularised by the Russian grandmaster Daniil Dubov. He examines all aspects of this highly complex opening and provides the reader with well-researched, fresh, and innovative analysis. Each annotated game has valuable lessons on how to play the opening and contains instructive commentary on typical middlegame plans. * A complete repertoire for Black to counter 1 d4. * The question and answer approach provides an excellent study method.Trade ReviewI think this is the first book to cover this line, and Lakdawala does an excellent job of covering it, even drawing on engine sources by bringing in three exceptional games of Stockfish as Black to highlight some key lines, while also sharing some training games that he played with his students in this line.All-in-all, an excellent opening repertoire book... , Matthew Sadler, New in Chess Magazine

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Book SynopsisDo you want a simple and practical method to counter Black's kingside fianchetto defences after 1 d4? A line that takes the initiative from a very early stage and creates difficult practical problems? If so, then The Harry Attack (1 d4 Nf6 2 c4 g6 3 h4!) is for you. At first this looks like some sort of joke or, at the very least, a weird outlandish line. Aren't we all taught to focus on development and control of the centre in the early stages? What's 3 h4 got to do with that? Perhaps surprisingly, this is a very difficult line for Black to counter effectively. This applies not just in practical play but also theoretically, where it is far from straightforward for Black even to find a route to equality. And when Black gets it wrong they are often on the receiving end of a very unpleasant miniature. You may be thinking that surely the best chess engines can show how to counter this line? No! One of the unexpected features of leading engine play is their enthusiasm for shoving the h-pawn up the board and they fully concur that 3 h4! is a very decent move for White. Many leading players have taken the hint and 3 h4 is frequently seen at elite level. Richard Palliser and Simon Williams (the GingerGM) provide a thorough guide to this fascinating line. They show how to adapt when Black chooses a King's Indian set-up, a Grunfeld set-up, a Benoni set-up or even plays in Benko style. The Harry Attack is easy to learn and is perfect for unsettling players steeped in the theory of their favourite Indian defences.Trade ReviewIt may still be hard for some to take Simon Williams’s favourite 1 d4 Ìf6 2 c4 g6 3 h4!? seriously, but the top engines of 2023 like the move and it was even deployed by Fabiano Caruana to defeat Maxime Vachier-Lagrave at the Superbet Chess Classic in Bucharest this year. White bypasses the Grünfeld in the process and our Editor too clearly believes in 3 h4. If you find the King’s Indian and Grünfeld troubling to face and are happy being aggressive, why not give the Harry Attack a try with this significantly expanded and updated version of a 2022 Chessable course? - CHESS Magazine

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Book SynopsisThe variation of the French that starts 1 e4 e6 2 d4 d5 3 Nc3 (or 3 Nd2) 3 ... dxe4 is often called the Rubinstein Variation. It is a great way to simplify the position and ensure that the middlegame battle rewards strategic understanding rather than rote memorisation of opening moves. It is also a very useful weapon to defuse the attacking intentions of aggressive White players who plan an all-out assault in the main lines of the French Defence. An important feature of the lines after 3...dxe4 4 Nxe4 is that Black has various different ways to continue. 4 ... Nd7 is the most common but 4 ... Bd7 (planning ... Bc6 – the Fort Knox Variation), 4 ... Be7 and 4 ... Nf6 are all possible. All these lines are covered in the book. Finally, White can, of course, avoid the 3 ... dxe4 variation with (amongst others) the Advance Variation, 3 e5. Martin provides antidotes to all these possible sidelines and so the variations in the book provide a complete repertoire to meet 1 e4.Table of ContentsContents About the Author 3 Introduction 6 Part One: 1 e4 e6 2 d4 d5 3 Ìc3/Ìd2 dxe4 1 Overview of the Variations 7 2 Rubinstein: Introduction 55 3 Rubinstein: Main Line with 7 Íd3 62 4 Rubinstein: Main Line with 7 Íg5 89 5 Rubinstein: Main Line with 7 c3 112 6 Rubinstein: Main Line with 7 Ìe5 131 7 Rubinstein: Main Line with 7 Íe3 and 7 Íc4 137 8 Rubinstein: 6 Íd3 148 9 Rubinstein: 6 Ìg3 and Rare Knight Moves 157 10 Rubinstein: 6 Íg5 162 11 Rubinstein: White Fianchettos 171 12 Rubinstein: Other Ideas for White 177 13 Fort Knox: Introduction and Main Line 182 14 Fort Knox: Main Line without 7 0 0 212 15 Fort Knox: Loose Ends 235 16 The Modest 4...Íe7 242 17 The Sharp 4...Ìf6 258 18 Other Fourth Moves for Black 282 Part Two: Lines without 3 Ìc3 and 3 Ìd2 19 Advance Variation 288 20 Exchange Variation 312 21 King’s Indian Attack 326 22 Rare Lines 340 Index of Variations 352 Index of Complete Games 364

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Book SynopsisA Fistful of Kung Fu brings the hyper-kinetic, bullet-spraying, demon-slaying, kung-fu-fighting action of Hong Kong movies and Asian cinema to the wargames tabletop. In a modern world walking a precarious line between the advances of next-generation technology and the tradition and mysticism of ancient cultures, Kung Fu schools face off in no-holds-barred tournaments, corporations hire agents and spies to steal each other's secrets, overworked SWAT teams respond to gunfights between feuding Triad and Yakuza clans, and ancient artefacts are sought by hopping vampires, demon sorcerers and cyborgs alike. Combining the gunfights of John Woo’s Hard Boiled, the hand-to-hand combat of Enter the Dragon, the sheer mystical weirdness of Big Trouble in Little China, the wuxia action of Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, and everything in-between, A Fistful of Kung Fu is a skirmish wargame unlike any other.Table of ContentsIntroduction/ Rules/ Faction Lists

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis28 different characters, poses and expressions that offer a dynamic selection of Manga-style male figures. Drawing boys is a very popular subject within the manga genre and this book is perfect for anyone seeking to learn the basics of creating these delightful characters.Trade ReviewJuly 2015 These two titles from artist Li (Mecha Manga) provide text-free, step-by-step guidance for drawing manga characters. Sequential color-coded sketches walk the reader through illustrating many charming human manga personalities. A simple exercise per page ends with a full-color, finished character illustration. Aside from the author’s short introduction, no other words are found in these guides. Li takes similar approaches to depicting girls and boys, emphasizing energetic poses and narrative suggestion in both books. Portraying a range of emotions and facial expressions in the manga style is demonstrated throughout. VERDICT Ideal for children and younger teens. * Library Journal, USA *

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Book Synopsis28 different characters, poses and expressions that offer a dynamic selection of Manga-style female figures. Drawing girls is a very popular subject within the manga genre and this book is perfect for anyone seeking to learn the basics of creating these delightful characters. Suitable for adults and children of all ages and abilities.Trade ReviewJuly 2015 These two titles from artist Li (Mecha Manga) provide text-free, step-by-step guidance for drawing manga characters. Sequential color-coded sketches walk the reader through illustrating many charming human manga personalities. A simple exercise per page ends with a full-color, finished character illustration. Aside from the author’s short introduction, no other words are found in these guides. Li takes similar approaches to depicting girls and boys, emphasizing energetic poses and narrative suggestion in both books. Portraying a range of emotions and facial expressions in the manga style is demonstrated throughout. VERDICT Ideal for children and younger teens * Library Journal, USA *

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Book SynopsisThe Embroiderers' Guild was founded in 1906 and has in its collection embroideries from all over the world. These wonderful works, which somehow survived through the ages, could be said to be one of the most important group of embroideries assembled in one place. Stitched pieces and fragments and were gathered together by early members of the Guild and inserted into portfolios that were circulated among members. Nature has always been a huge source of inspiration to embroiderers and this fantastic book showcases the Embroiderers' Guild's huge collection of embroidered flowers through the ages. Featuring full-colour photographs , items are shown in full and also with detail images to show off the flowers at their best. These wonderful embroidered treasures are as varied as wall hangings, children's dresses, bridal bags and samplers, some of which date back to the 17th century. The images are shown with extended captions. Collected from many different countries, this is an opportunity to see fabulous works that are very rarely seen in public.Trade ReviewThe Embroiderers' Guild in the United Kingdom has published several books on a collection that originated just after World War I and now includes some 6,000 objects. The current volume focuses on the embroidered flowers. Some ninety objects are included in this volume, organised by type of embroidery. Each object has its own page, complete with a large photo of the piece and more often than not, a detail photo of it; accession information, including technique, date, place, date of origin, size, maker, donor, and accession number; and some text about the piece. View works with unusual materials, such as fish scales, straw, and moose hair, and pieces hailing from countries around the world. Use this book to learn about historic embroidery, view different techniques, or become inspired to create your own work. * Embroiderers' Guild of America: Needle Arts Vol. 49, September 2018 *Issue March/April Almost as soon as the Embroiderers' Guild formed in 1906, it had the beginnings of what is now a collection of 6,000 items of needlework from around the world. This book provides an intriguing glimpse inside one of the most fascinating collections of embroidery in Britain, highlighting the enduring popularity of flowers as a motif. Collinge has selected a multitude of colourful examples of floral embroidery and divides them into chapters by style and material: monochrome embroidery (blackwork and whitework); even-weave (counted, beadwork and canvas work); samplers and samples; needle lace; applied materials; unusual materials (fish scales, straw, plastic); metal thread work; more stitches; silk and wool; machine embroidery; symmetry and irregular designs. The examples are satisfyingly varied. In the chapter on machine embroidery we find Richard Box's Dog Roses (1980) a joyously impressionistic work next to a commercially produced whitework handkerchief from Switzerland. In other chapters, metal thread work from Spain, Portugal and India, rubs shoulders with beautiful needle lace flower garlands from Greece and Turkey and a fine British 18th century cornucopia darning sampler on linen. Collinge really has made light work of what must have been a monumental task in deciphering the themes within the collection. The resulting book is like holding a mini-museum in your hands: each embroidered item is given its own page with beautiful, detailed colour images and an engaging description, along with a brief history of the style of embroidery, its maker or provenance. This is a book that you can read at length or dip in and out of - and be guaranteed to find endless inspiration. * Embroidery *I’m sure that most people have heard of the Embroiderers’ Guild Collection which grew from donations from Guild members, including some from eminent sources – even Queen Mary gave hangings and costumes. The Guild later embarked upon a programme of purchasing carefully selected embroideries and the Permanent Collection now contains over 6,000 pieces. It is currently held by Buckinghamshire County Museum. The book looks at floral inspiration for (mostly traditional) embroideries and the chapters are, in general, based on techniques with such titles as ‘Embroidery on Evenweave’, ‘Needlelace’ etc. There is a wonderful section on unusual materials which shows work stitched on leather and tree bark as well as some incorporating fish scales and straw. Machine embroidery is included and ranges from wonderful pieces made by trail-blazer Joy Clucas in the 1960s to Richard Box’s innovative work in the 1980s. I’d have like to see a bigger selection here as I know that the Guild has some great machine embroidered artworks. However, it may be that they didn’t fit the theme. In most cases, each item is shown as an entire piece as well as a detail. There is also an excellent index, so useful for students researching a particular technique. * Workshop on the Web *This is a very special book, full of the most beautiful examples of embroidery work through the ages. You will be amazed by the exquisite detail and skill shown in the examples. This most beautiful book and the stunning photographs will be a source of inspiration for generations to come. Highly Recommended! * Hot Brands Cool Places *The Embroiderer’s Guild was founded in 1906 by a group of sixteen women who wanted to break away from patterns and kits. Their collection of donated items totals over 6000 and contains many valuable and unique samples of the finest embroidery. This book focuses on floral themes and shows what can be achieved with needle and thread.This is not a book of projects but a book of pictures, suitably large format and hardback. Embroiderers of all levels can gaze at the heights to which their craft can rise to, and anybody who hasn’t taken up this craft can see what all the fuss is about. After a brief introduction to the collection the book is divided into twelve themed sections. These include monochromatic work, metal thread, machine, needlelace, samplers and unusual materials. Each section introduces the theme briefly and then showcases a selection of pieces complete with short descriptions, details of size, date and place it was made and technique. There are samples from as early as the 16th century and cover most types of embroidery including some no longer (or rarely) done. A collar adorned with flowers made from fish scales, Berlin work from the mid 19th century, part of a kimono, evocative samplers stitched by children, a box made from tree bark adorned with embroidery, Victorian beadwork evening bags and an early piece of 16th century blackwork are a few examples. Anybody interested in recycling will love the flowers made from plastic net bags (the sort fruit is sold in), and a machine embroidery picture using tiny scraps of fabric. This is a beautiful book to display on your coffee table and dip into when you want some inspiration. * Dr Annette Collinge *Embroidered Treasures: Flowers is a fantastic book! It’s inspirational. It’s informative. It’s beautiful! For most of us who will never see a collection of embroideries like these up close and personal, this lovely book is the best way to experience them and learn about them. We can take what we learn and apply it to our own needlework pursuits. Or we can just enjoy the beauty of the pieces and appreciate the history behind them. It’s a great book for your reference library… and even for your coffee table! * Mary Corbet, www.needlenthread.com *Table of ContentsProvisional Chapter 1: Embroidery in Monochrome: Blackwork and Whitework 16th century blackwork motifs 20th century blackwork with metal thread cushion cover in brown thread Chikan embroidery from India Whitework sachet Machine-made monogram panel Mountmellick embroidery from Ireland Embroidery on evenweave backgrounds 17th century bead work panels Beaded evening bag, knitted Two small beaded bags, miser's purse Berlin Work tea cosy Pattern darning on net, daffodils Two small petit point bags 17th century canvas work fragment The fichu Pattern darning, cornucopia Samplers and Samples Sampler with boxers Lettering sampler RSN motif sampler Book of samples Nancy Kimmins roses sampler, RSN Mary Clarke crewel work tree of life Needle Laces 17th century coif panel The pea pod panel 17th century white work sampler Oyas from Greece White work needle lace cuff Set of little mats, reticella centres Applied Materials Ribbon work, Queen Mary's foot cover Fine ribbon work bag Felt work tea cosy Sunflower from the 1960's Felt work cornflower Purple flower from the 1960's Neale panel Shisha mirrors from India Violet Geary panel 18th century slips Embroidery with unusual materials Embroidery with Fish Scales Embroidery with Straw Embroidery on Tree Bark with Moose Hair Embroidery on Leather The 3 dimensional Bowl of Flowers Embroidery with Vegetable Bags Embroidery with Aerophane Copper Rose by Joan Hardingham The Use of Metal Thread Or Nue panel Idol's dress, Spain 2 x sleeve bands, China Stomacher Costume fragments from India Flower from Portugal Pink cover from India Queen Mary's Dress Panel Stitches and More Stitches Chenille Thread Embroidery Kay Dennis Clematis, 3 dimensional embroidery Shadow work mats French Knots Panel Perkin Knots from China Berlin Work, Plush Stitch Rococco Stitch Silk and Wool Silk Embroidery from Japan Blue silk Embroidery from China Winsome Douglass Hanging Wool Pocket from Norway Beryl Dean Delphiniums Silk Apron from China Chinai Work, Chinese Immigrant work from India 17th century cushion cover, green silk Made by Machine Sunflowers by Joy Clucas Tea Cosy by Dorothy Benson White Tulips by Audrey Walker Dog Roses by Richard Box Handkerchief from Switzerland Tambour Embroidery from India Regular Designs 19th Century red flowers, Turkey Rachel Evans mats Joan Drew handkerchief sachet 12 x motifs panel, Greece Stole from India Yellow thread cloth from India Eveline Quainton's cushion cover M. Harris table cloth Irregular Designs 18th century pocket Buttercups panel Framed Elsie Grimes Tea Cosy Floral Panel from a Transfer Design Floral bag, black drawstring Cheltenham Ladies College School work panel Flowers from Greece

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Book SynopsisThis fantastic book showcases the prestigious Embroiderers’ Guild’s huge collection of embroidered animals through the ages. Featuring photographs taken especially for the book, items are displayed in full along with detailed images that show off the stunning variety of creatures at their best. Dr Annette Collinge's informative extended captions for each of the pieces give information on the provenance where known, and evaluate the quality of, and variety in, each of the works from her expert perspective. Rarely exhibited in public, these beautiful and important embroideries that span the centuries are now available for everyone to see.Trade ReviewThis a very informative and beautifully illustrated book. It covers a wide variety of styles of embroidery, describing embroidery from 16th century to modern times. It doesn't tell you "how to" but shows what could be possible! It is certainly inspirational! -- Trish Blincoe * Amazon *A visit to the Embroiders' Guild collection in book form! This is a beautiful book which allows the reader to explore a corner of the Embroiders' Guild collection based around the theme of animals. An excellent resource for anyone studying or researching textiles while also a collection of beautiful items to look at for the more relaxed reader. The range of methods and techniques in which the pieces on a theme have been created seems endless and is sure to provide inspiration for it's readers. The photography is clear and you almost want to touch the work. Where pieces are larger, close up photographs have been added to demonstrate the detail. This book does not teach the reader any techniques but does give a clear description of each piece. A range of information is provided with each piece such as date, source, size and the Embroiders' Guild reference number. -- Lisa Carson * Amazon *I loved this book. The illustrations were very detailed. It showed many different styles of work and proved very inspirational for ideas for my embroidery. The history and the details are fascinating. -- Sue Patricia Southwick * Amazon *A beautiful animal book. I enjoyed looking at the various projects and how the book demonstrates the details and methods in a easy to understand and create way. Loved the timeline as it gives a real sense of creation and development. The photos are excellent quality and illustrate how the stitches are created. Loved the illustrations allowing my creativity to flow. Overall I am looking forward to creating my own projects inspired by this awe inspiring book. -- Stephanie Ann * Amazon *I loved this book. It reveals the methods used (i.e. Appliqué, stumpwork and goldwork) in each piece and includes a wide range of adaptations used. It showcases the best of the collection's animal embroideries, dating from the 17th century to the present day. The skill and imagination is just beautiful I would definitely recommend this book. -- Jeanette Louise Leighton * Amazon *This the third book in the series exploring examples of embroidery held within the Embroiderers' Guild Collection. Annette Collinge has gathered together an inspirational variety of animal-themed hand and machine embroidered artefacts, which span the centuries and cover every technique - from petit point and samplers to metal thread work and three-dimensional needlework - each with a unique story of provenance. Beautifully illustrated throughout, these charming and important embroideries, rarely exhibited in public, are now available for everyone to appreciate. * Embroidery *For over 100 years the Embroiderers' Guild has amassed an incredible collection of textiles, rarely exhibited to the public. This third book in the series has Dr Annette Collinge turn her expert eye to animals. She makes for a knowledgeable guide through time and around the world, putting a spotlight on the best from the collection. Marvel at the skill, styles, colour and imagination on display. * Stitch *Table of ContentsHistory of the Embroiderers’ Guild and its Collection 6 Introduction 10 1. Embroidery in monochrome 12 2. Embroidery on evenweave backgrounds 20 3. Samples and samplers 28 4. Animals in art 38 5. Applied materials 46 6. Animals in three dimensions 58 7. The use of metal thread 66 8. Stitches and more stitches 74 9. Embroidery in silk and wool 88 10. made by machine 98 11. Animals from many lands 104 12. Fanciful animals 118 Index 128

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Book SynopsisAdd the personal touch and create bespoke sewn presents for any occasion! Half Yard Gifts is part of the best-selling series from sewing guru, Debbie Shore. It contains 22 projects to sew and give away, each made using less than half a yard of fabric.The book contains gifts for all your family and friends. The projects range from pincushions, bags and paperweights to aprons for budding chefs, kneeling pads for gardeners and tool belts for DIY-enthusiasts. The projects are made in a range of prints and styles and use a range of techniques: either follow each project closely, or adapt the size and fabric to suit the recipient. Debbie gives advice on how to customise the projects, so that you can create the perfect gift for your loved one. This book would be perfect if you are new to sewing and need some guidance with the basic techniques and key information, as Debbie’s friendly advice and clear step-by-step photography make it a doddle. It’s also packed with fresh ideas and designs that will inspire you even if you’ve been a keen sewer for many years and are looking for a way to use up your stash and create meaningful gifts that your loved ones will treasure.Trade ReviewA beautiful book that uses small amount of fabric so it is ideal for beginners and established sewists. Debbie Shore gives easy instructions so they are easy to understand and to follow. She is a fabulous pattern maker and I know that whatever I make, it will turn out beautifully. These projects can be made in a couple of hours so it's perfect for people that have limited time but want to be creative for a while. Highly recommended * Postcard Reviews *Issue 45 Debbie Shore's latest practical sewing guide combines her love of homemade gifts with her passion for upcycling, and features 22 clever ideas for turning leftover 'half-yard' pieces of fabric into bespoke gifts for family and friends. Basic sewing advice, tools, tips, techniques and simple instructions make the projects easily achievable for both beginners and experienced sewers. We love the sentiment behind recycling unwanted materials into something special for someone special, with projects including a gardener's kneeling pad, tablet cover, decorative string of birds, cosmetics bag, child's apron and pyramid paperweight. * Reloved *The book contains 22 projects to sew and give away, each made using less than half a yard of fabric. The projects range from pincushions, bags, and paperweights, to aprons for budding chefs, kneeling pads for gardeners, and toll belts for DIY-enthusiasts. * Be Creative *’Tis the season for gift sewing, and Shore’s latest is a collection of easy-to-sew projects using a half yard (or less) of fabric. Most of the projects are frilly and feminine or whimsical and child-friendly, with ribbon, lace, and button trims, and quilting cotton featuring prominently. They’re the type of projects that don’t require body measurements, making it easy to whip up a few to give as last-minute or hostess gifts. The majority are home-decor related, including an oilcloth-covered garden kneeler, a door stop shaped like a handbag, a throw pillow featuring a slashed-fabric design, and a cupcake-shaped pot holder. The directions are given in short steps with photos of key points. Photos of the finished projects abound as well. Patterns are not included, which isn’t problematic because most of the projects highlight shapes that are simple to cut. Directions for creating custom templates are included as needed. VERDICT Gift sewing is popular, and there’s a wide range of projects here. Sewists looking for cute, feminine gift designs will enjoy * Library Journal USA *Debbie shore is a genius when it comes to making a lot from just a little bit of fabric. In her latest book, she presents 22 ways to make pretty, yet inexpensive gifts for everyone. Working with half a yard of fabric or less, you can create cushions, a draught excluder, purses and even a gardener’s kneeling pad, plus many other fun and functional items. These easy-to-make designs will help you use up your fabric stash and try out some new skills, including free motion embroidery ‘Cathedral Window’ quilting, fabric slashing and many more. * Love to Make *As we have come to expect from popular author Debbie, this new title is packed with lots of fun items to sew from small quantities of material. Debbie's eye for colour and her choice of fabric means each project is not only attractive but also practical. Comprehensive instructions and sewing tips ensure success for sewers of all abilities * East Kent Embroiderers Guild *Table of ContentsIntroduction 8 Useful things 10 Before you start 12 Cactus pincushion 16 Slashed fabric pillow cover 18 Slashed fabric purse 22 Scissor keeper 26 Rustic flowerpot 28 String of chicks 32 Pyramid paperweight 36 Cosmetic bag 38 Draught excluder 44 Reading pillow 48 Tool apron 52 Child’s apron 54 Gardener’s kneeling pad 58 Handbag doorstop 62 Cupcake over mitt 66 Heart pillow 70 Wallet 72 Door tidy 76 Tablet case 80 Cupcake tea cosy 84 Hot water bottle cover 88 Pyjama case 92 Index and key terms 96

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