C.J.S. Purdy, Guide to Good Chess, Thinkers Press: 2002
Reviewed by Kirstyn, 03/02/11, 16yo, rating 900
Guide to Good Chess
is an exquisite chess novel written by C.J.S. Purdy. The book contains 140
pages of fascinating facts about chess and was published by the Chess Business
Network. It is the 12th printing of this novel, and it was published in October 2002. I decided to read this book as it holds relevant information that can improve my chess skills by enhancing my knowledge of the logical sport. Booby Fischer, a World Chess Champion, raved about C.J.S Purdy's writings.
This book entails detailed information that assists both new and more experienced chess players to improve their game. C.J.S. Purdy wrote the novel in such a way that it is easy to understand, yet is very helpful and suggestive in ways to improve your chess ability. The novel describes ways to improve all aspects of your game; such as openings, middle game and endgame. The book also suggests that learning about games played by champions and world masters assists in building your knowledge of the sport.
I personally found Guide to Good Chess a fascinating read that improved my chess skills dramatically. I genuinely noticed the difference in the way I thought of chess. I would recommend this book to any aspiring chess player who wants an interesting yet informative chess novel.
Reviewed by Kyle, 30/10/11, 13yo, rating 1000
C.J.S Purdy (1906-1979) was the first World Correspondence Chess Champion, four times Australian Champion and International Master. The aim of the book was to teach “the true elements of chess”. This book is the 12th edition print of the Guide to Good Chess and was originally published in 1950. Mikhail Botvinnik from Russia was the Chess World Champion at the time.
Part 1 includes an introduction with a basic history of chess and also covers basic moves, rules of the game and notation (algebraic). There are also lots of diagrams.
Part 2 talks about the opening including controlling the centre, developing your pieces and it also discuss a complete opening.
Part 3 talks about the middle game.
Part 4 talks about the end game strategy. It includes general rules for end games with pawns and pieces, the rook in end games and pawn endings.
Part 5 features a complete game discussed with all the mistakes pointed out and fully explained.
I found this book easy to read and to follow through each step of the game. It is a very good book for improving your strategies. I think it would be suitable for intermediate players and it is a good book to help improve your chess.
Reviewed by Brody, 10/12/11, 15yo, rating 1000
CJS Purdys Guide To Good Chess is a short book and is only a couple of hours read. But the book is very informative and you can learn a lot out of it. This book is best sutted for middle level to advanced players because some of the terms he uses are a bit hard to understand. Purdy trys to explain all the principals of chess and reccommends other books to be read if you want to look deeper into a topic.
