The Chess Attacker’s Handbook by Michael Song and Razvan Preotu

The Chess Attacker’s Handbook by Michael Song & Razvan Preotu

The Chess Attacker’s Handbook by International Master Michael Song and Grandmaster Razvan Preotu is a practical guide to developing a strong attacking style in chess. Published by Gambit Publications in 2017, the book explores the thought process behind successful attacks, teaching players how to recognize attacking opportunities, calculate accurately, and coordinate their pieces effectively.

The authors go beyond simple tactical tricks and explain the deeper concepts behind creative attacking chess, including maneuvering, prophylaxis, sacrifices, pawn storms, and attacks against the king. Using examples from their own games, modern classics, and instructive positions, Song and Preotu provide valuable lessons on how strong players build and execute winning attacks.

Topics Covered

• Attacking the uncastled king
• Opposite-side castling attacks
• Sacrificial attacks and calculation
• King attacks and piece coordination
• Pawn storms and attacking advances
• Attacks on color complexes
• Endgame attacks
• Prophylaxis and preventing counterplay
• Maneuvering before launching an attack
• Practical attacking examples from master games

Key Features

• Written by Michael Song and Grandmaster Razvan Preotu
• Foreword by Grandmaster Evgeny Bareev
• Published by Gambit Publications in 2017
• Focuses on practical attacking skills rather than memorizing tactics
• Explains the thought process behind successful attacks
• Includes instructive modern and classical attacking games
• Helps players understand when and how to launch an attack

Recommended For

• Tournament players seeking a stronger attacking style
• Intermediate and advanced players improving calculation
• Chess coaches and instructors
• Players who want to master king attacks, sacrifices, and dynamic play
• Anyone interested in learning how Grandmasters create and execute attacks