Secrets of the Russian Chess Masters: Fundamentals of the Game, Volume 1

by Lev Alburt, Larry Parr

Offers techniques used by the Russian masters for recreational and competitive games

Genres: Chess

284 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Bryan Whitehead · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve ever read on the subject of chess, so for now at least I don’t have anything to compare it to. However, my first response is interest coupled with a little disappointment. The first hundred pages or so are probably too basic for most people who’ve ever played the game, and the chapters on endgame strategy are a bit tedious (how much fun can you expect to get out of passed pawns and lawnmowers?). The openings and mid-game strategy tips are fascinating, but for some reason most of the examples emphasize checkmate maneuvering, wonderful if you’re playing in the tricky world of masters’ competition but maybe a bit much for beginners. The result reads more like chess problems than usable game strategy and tactics. Further, I’m not sure where the Russian chess masters enter into this. Perhaps they’re in the second volume. Most of the examples here – especially the extended games – are from Bobby Fisher, chess genius (and paranoid lunatic) to be sure but not Russian.

[shean · Rating 5 out of 5]

As far as instructional books go, this one does a fantastic job. I may still be bad at chess, but it convinced me that there was hope I could get better.

[Jaime · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely threw this book down a few times thinking I finally had enough, but a day or two later would pick it back up and try again. Definitely exposed me to more methods and improved my game.