The centuries-long history of chess would be incomplete without books. For beginners, chess books are a practical guide to hone their skills. If the book is written by a famous player, it is also an opportunity to learn more about his personal history and find motivation. There are many chess books out there, but in this article we will share a list of books that every chess lover should read at least once in their life.
Masters of the Chessboard by Richard Réti
Chess books don’t always get the attention they deserve, but Richard Réti’s chess book is an exception. First, Masters of the Chessboard is written by an outstanding chess player who once played 29 games simultaneously while blindfolded. Secondly, Réti not only was a player but also a theorist: he invented his chess opening (bears the author’s name). Thirdly, the book is so comprehensive that despite the year of publication (1933), everything is still up-to-date. The author examines the styles of outstanding chess players, scientifically explains the technique of chess combinations, and talks in detail about rook endings. This is a real treasure for newcomers to chess.
The Chess Struggle in Practice, David Bronstein
This book is dedicated to the landmark chess tournaments of the past: it covers all the major chess tournaments of the 20th century in one volume. Much of the book was written in the run-up to when the author himself almost became world champion. In 1951, he drew the match, and since Bronstein was a challenger, the title remained with the reigning champion, Botvinnik. Despite outperforming his opponent, Bronstein strangely lost the penultimate game and was unable to surpass the chess genius. The book may seem difficult for beginners, but it contains a lot of valuable information. It is well known that in order to develop chess skill, one must study the great games of the past. Having this book in one’s corner, one can easily access it. In addition, the author has added critical notes along with the moves of the games. 
How to Reassess Your Chess, Jeremy Silman
“How to Reassess Your Chess” by Jeremy Silman is an indispensable guide for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of chess and learn how to develop effective strategic plans. The approach to teaching chess is methodical and structured, helping players to gradually develop their skills and a deeper understanding of the game. The book is written to be understandable and useful for amateur chess players. The author explains complex concepts in simple language, making them accessible to a wider audience.
The Life and Games of Mikhail Tal, Mikhail Tal
This is an autobiographical book by the great chess grandmaster. Tal shares memories of his chess career, from the first steps in chess to becoming a world champion. The author describes his creative approaches to the game, displaying an unrivaled tactical acuity and a unique style that has earned him many fans. The book is written in an engaging style that captivates the reader from the very beginning. Read this book to learn about the most brutal chess games ever played in the highest tournaments.
My Great Predecessors, Garry Kasparov
“My Great Predecessors” by Garry Kasparov is a series of books in which the legendary world chess champion provides detailed analysis of the games and strategies of outstanding chess players such as Capablanca, Alekhine, Botvinnik, Fischer and many others. The five-volume set is packed with historical context and the author’s personal commentary, making it not only a study guide but also a fascinating journey through chess history. Kasparov demonstrates the evolution of chess thought and technique through the lens of the great masters of the past. This series of books is useful for both chess enthusiasts and professionals seeking to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the game.
Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess, Bobby Fischer
Bobby Fischer is considered one of the greatest players who ever played chess. Like many other chess prodigies, he demonstrated extraordinary talent from a young age. Naturally, all aspiring chess players want to learn the subtleties of chess strategy from the great genius. “Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess” is a textbook written by the legendary chess player Bobby Fischer. The book is a unique interactive course that helps the reader learn chess step by step on their own. Fischer emphasizes tactical techniques and the fundamentals of the endgame, offering a variety of exercises with a gradual increase in difficulty. Each exercise is provided with detailed explanations, allowing readers to better understand the strategic and tactical principles of the game. The style of narration makes the book accessible to beginners, but more experienced chess players will also find valuable tips and techniques in it.
Think Like a Grandmaster, Alexander Kotov
In the book, the grandmaster shares his unique approach to analyzing chess games and explains how to think effectively at the grandmaster level. He describes the decision-making process in detail, including methods for calculating options, evaluating positions, and developing strategic plans. Special emphasis is placed on the “analysis tree,” a systematic approach to considering all possible moves and their consequences. The book is packed with examples from the games of Kotov and other chess superstars, helping readers to better understand and apply the concepts presented. “Think Like a Grandmaster” is useful for both advanced chess players and those seeking to deepen their understanding of chess logic and improve their game.
My system, Aron Nimzowitsch
This is one of the most influential and recognized chess manuals in history. In his book, Nimzowitsch presents his revolutionary ideas on strategy and tactics, emphasizing the importance of positions and pawn structures. He introduces key concepts such as prophylaxis, blockade, and centralized play that have become the basis for many modern chess strategies. The book is organized into several sections, each dealing with different aspects of the game of chess, from the basics to complex strategic plans. Examples from real games and numerous exercises help readers to consolidate what they have learned in practice.
Endgame Virtuoso: Anatoly Karpov, Tibor Karolyi
“Endgame Virtuoso: Anatoly Karpov” by Tibor Karolyi is a fascinating study of the endgame as played by one of the greatest chess players of all time, Anatoly Karpov. Karolyi analyzes the key endgame concepts and ideas that helped Karpov win many games at the highest level. The book offers readers a detailed look at technical mastery in the endgame, including topics such as pawn conversion, defense techniques, use of active kings, and more. All aspiring chess players will gain invaluable insight into the world of grandmasters and leading chess tournaments by reading the pages of these accessible books.
Now that we have come to the end of our list of fascinating chess books, it’s time to take a break and play a game.
