Pandolfini's Chess Complete: The Most Comprehensive Guide to the Game, from History to Strategy

by Bruce Pandolfini

The perfect and necessary addition to any personal chess library​ from America’s foremost chess coach and game strategist for Netflix’s The Queen’s Gambit.

In this comprehensive, accessible reference, National Master Bruce Pandolfini covers every aspect of the game, from chessboard and pieces to history and strategy, and addresses virtually any possible question or situation that may arise.

From algebra notation to zugzwang , Pandolfini has created the chess bible for players of all levels. And in addition to answers to over 500 questions, he has included his terrific short chess course plus tournament tips and endgame maxims. You’ll learn the difference between a mating attack and a mating net, the best way to gain control of the center in the opening, why the Russians are so successful at chess, what happened to Bobby Fischer, and more!

For an edge up on the competition, look no further than Pandolfini’s Chess Complete .

Genres: Chess, Nonfiction, Games

256 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1992

About the author

Bruce Pandolfini (born September 17, 1947) is an American chess author, teacher, and coach. A USCF national master, he is generally considered to be America’s most experienced chess teacher. As a coach and trainer, Pandolfini has possibly conducted more chess sessions than anyone in the world. By the summer of 2015 he had given an estimated 25,000 private and group lessons.

(Wikipedia)

Reviews

[Ed Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Now I know that when I want to mobilize a pawn majority, I should start by moving the unopposed pawn. Thank you, Mr. Pandolfini. How could such a simple rule (known as Capablanca's Rule) have eluded me for so many years?! This book is full of gems such as that one and speaks to them in prose designed for beginners and intermediate players.

A great book, especially for slow chess students like me. It can't replace the books and guides that go into detail on various openings, problems, and lines (e.g., "Reassess Your Chess"), but it is certainly a nice complement.

[Rik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very "complete " and was a great help getting me started with chess.

[Joshua · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great book on chess strategy and history.

[Ben Weaver · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's a chess book. It's not that interesting. Skimmed the second half