by C. J. S. Purdy, 258pp. (Thinkers' Press 2006)

 

The Royal Game didn't happen overnight. "Old Chess" spread from India to Persia before going to the Arabic countries and then to Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and finally, England. It went directly from India/Persia to Russia. The oldest known game is from a 10th century Arabian MS. During those "ancient" times the Arabs even played "blindfold" chess!

 

In "New Chess," Purdy ally and friend John Hammond writes about the evolution of chess theory. Then Purdy picks up again and takes us on a guided tour of some of the best known players during his era-by presenting biographies after their passing in his Chess world magazine, one of the premiere chess publications of its day. Selections of 67 of their best games, player eccentricities, and their contributions are written out in the best style.

 

You'll meet Vera Menchik, the women's world champion who had vanquished some of the best men players. Three world champions among the mists of time: Alekhine, Lasker, and Capablanca-many pages devoted to the best. Famous teachers such as Tarrasch, Réti, and Nimzovich. For glitzy action you can't beat Marshall or Spielmann. The "thinkers" include: Rubinstein, Yates, and Colle. And, as a writer and teacher, Purdy was almost in a class by himself. The "all-rounders" such as Bogoljuboff and Tartakower will impress you just as much.

 

Co-author Maurice Goldstein was one of International Master Purdy's (first world correspondence chess champion) trusted editors and a worthy writer. This, at last, is chess to enjoy.