by Alexander Raetsky & Maxim Chetverik, 160pp. (2006 Everyman)
Boris Spassky is a true chess legend, a World Champion who, thanks to his monumental battles with Bobby Fischer, raised the popularity of the game to a level that had never been seen before. Although at the height of his powers many saw Spassky as a complete and universal player, adept at outplaying his opponents in any type of position, it is no secret that from an early age he thrived on sharp, attacking play. He was a superb practical player, and with the initiative at his hands he could conjure up wonderful combinations and deadly attacks.
In Boris Spassky Master of Initiative, Alexander Raetsky and Maxim Chetverik look back over Spassky’s long and distinguished career to examine how he defeated his long-time adversaries, carefully highlighting his most colourful and celebrated encounters over the chessboard. A deep study of his style and games will entertain and inspire any true chess fan.
Includes Boris Spassky’s most brilliant sacrificial games
Review On Dec 22, 2006by Robert A. Karch of Tacoma, WA
Rating :
Title :
Boris Spassky, Master of Initiative
Comments :
All the games of the tenth world champion have been placed under the microscope, of which 150 game positions are given. The authors state that they “have selected Spassky's best tactical finishes to give the readers a chance to improve their tactics.”
Here is a quick overview of the 11 chapters:
Chapter (1) A short biography (14 pages), including annotated wins vs Bronstein (a King’s Gambit), Tukmakov (Sicilian), Karpov (Sicilian) and Fischer (Sicilian, poisoned pawn). All are lightly annotated.
Chapter (2) Warming Up. Three games with a sharp tactical twist are followed by 20 “Puzzle” diagrams – four to a page – numbered 2-20. Under each diagram is given the challenge, also showing where to find the “Tip” and the “Solution.”
Additional chapters: (3) A greater depth, (4) It’s time to calculate, (5) Up another level, (6) The very best of Spassky, (7) Endgame legacy, (8) Retaliation: 25 spectacular Spassky defeats, based on tactical shots, (9) Missed opportunities, either by Spassky or his opponent, (10) Tips, and (11) Solutions to Puzzles, which for the most part include the full game scores.
An excellent tactical refresher. Recommended for players rated at 1800 and below.
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