Great review. I really enjoyed this book when I read it. I had started with Simple Chess, which left a more lasting impression on me - maybe because of Stean’s inimitable style of writing and his focus on a smaller number of key positional elements.
But I think of “strategy” as combining not just positional insights but also “game management” - when to push vs consolidate, which side of the board to play on, transitions between phases of the game - and Seirawan’s treatment is definitely broader.
I’ve bought this for a friend getting into chess - though now, I wonder if Levy’s book might be a better gift.
The Amateur’s Mind with Andras Toth is on my Chessable wishlist!
A while ago I did a review on another chess book which I think may interest you. It was "The immortal game" by David Shenk. It is a very well written history on chess, and its effects on society and philosophy. I believe you would get a lot out of it.
Great review. I really enjoyed this book when I read it. I had started with Simple Chess, which left a more lasting impression on me - maybe because of Stean’s inimitable style of writing and his focus on a smaller number of key positional elements.
But I think of “strategy” as combining not just positional insights but also “game management” - when to push vs consolidate, which side of the board to play on, transitions between phases of the game - and Seirawan’s treatment is definitely broader.
I’ve bought this for a friend getting into chess - though now, I wonder if Levy’s book might be a better gift.
The Amateur’s Mind with Andras Toth is on my Chessable wishlist!
Hey Nick
A while ago I did a review on another chess book which I think may interest you. It was "The immortal game" by David Shenk. It is a very well written history on chess, and its effects on society and philosophy. I believe you would get a lot out of it.
https://jlmc12.substack.com/p/the-immortal-game-by-david-shenk