How to Play Handicap Go

by Yuan Zhou

An AGA 7-Dan Explains His Handicap Games - Yuan Zhou is one of the strongest Go players in America. He received professional training for 3 years and an invited participant in North American tournaments five times from 1991 - 2001. This book contains 8 games played by Zhou in two tournaments. As a registered 7 dan the games from that tournament are presented first. Also included is one game in which Zhou was not one of the players. Our idea was to show what happens when White does not play in accordance with the principles Zhou layws out in the book. There are very few moves per diagram, making it easy to follow. Strategy and tactics of the games are made understandable, ever for players at a much lower level of strength. These commentaries offer a unique opportunity for all players to gain insight into the thinking of one of the strongest amateur players in the US. Any player's handicap game will benefit enormously from reading it.

Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Thomas Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Craig Brown, organizer of the Phoenixville Go Club lent me this book. I need to get stronger in my opening game. After yesterday's reading, I one three games in a row; and while losing the fourth game it was only be a few points. There is something to playing other's games with sound commentary.

I was pleased that I'd actually played two of the players in this book; Keith Arnold and Chuck Robbins. That said, I was the one given the handicap, while in this book they are the ones taking a handicap.

[Frank · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book consists of eight commented handicap games. The comments are good and emphasize certain points regarding playing handicap games, both as white and as black.

While reading this book I came across a game in which I know one of the players. This was a first. The author presents this game as a good example of how to play as black. High praise for my acquaintance.