I rated this book two stars because I did pick up a few tips and tricks that will be helpful, but overall, it’s not a good book for true beginners.
I grew up playing chess, so I knew how the pieces moved, but when it comes to strategy, I knew next to nothing. I picked up this book hoping to get a refresher/confirmation on how the pieces move (which I got) and then learn some basic strategies. After reading this book, I know just a smidge more, but for the most part, it wasn’t that helpful.
For one, I struggled to follow the diagrams. This book is printed in black and white yet the description of the diagrams mentions things being color-coded. I was able to figure it out for the most part, but it would have been much easier if it was printed in color. The text also moves very quickly into using jargon and doesn’t spend enough time explaining the thinking behind the moves. I could follow what was being done, but I need to have the thought processes explained fully. This book will not give you that.
I feel like I could revisit this book and get much more out of it once I’m more used to the jargon and can follow the thought processes, but then, I won’t truly be a beginner. The main issue I have with the book is the title; it’s not truly “for beginners.”
This book is a huge resource for anyone learning how to play, and win at chess. The book first teaches the basic setup and rules of the game but does so in great detail. You then learn some good strategies to improve and win at the game. My favorite chapter however was the one on chess terminology, it really catches you up on so much if you are a beginner to the game. From this book I was also able to find this blog www.chessblog.info which has amazing information on the game, strategies, and tips to get better. Highly recommend this to anyone looking to learn about chess, get better, or learn some strategies to win more often.