IM Nikolay Minev 235pp. (2000 ICE)

This work is all about mastering tactical patterns. Indeed, it has been suggested that tactical play comprises 99% of chess play. Recognizing chess patterns is essential for players of all strengths. This book attempts to instill such recognition and to enable the reader to make these tacitcs work for him. At the heart of chess tactics is a key motif, coordination. Learning and understanding how the pawns and pieces coordinate with one another at focus points and breakthroughs is the key to tactical chess mastery. Thus, for example, the aptly named The Bishop and Knight in Concert article will surely bring a smile of undestanding as you see classical patterns unfold. -From the Introduction by Yasser Seirawan

For over fifty years, International Master, Dr. Nikolay Minev has been playing, researching, writing, lecturing and teaching chess. In this the first in a two volume series, Mastering Tactical Ideas, we have a compilation of his best, award winning, articles written over a twelve-year span. We are presented with all the joy and emotion that Nikolay brings to his exploration of chess tactics. By carefully examining the wealth of tactical patterns presented in these works, the student will become familiar with these recurring themes which can be used in their own games.