The Chess Companion: A Merry Collection of Tales of Chess and Its Players by Irving Chernev

The Chess Companion: A Merry Collection of Tales of Chess and Its Players by Irving Chernev

The Chess Companion by Irving Chernev is a delightful collection celebrating the history, beauty, and culture of chess through entertaining stories, memorable games, witty anecdotes, famous quotations, and instructive positions. Originally published in 1968 by Simon & Schuster, the book blends chess history, biographical sketches, annotated games, problems, and practical advice into an engaging volume that appeals to both casual enthusiasts and serious players. Rather than focusing on a single aspect of chess, Chernev captures the spirit of the game by showcasing its greatest personalities, brilliant combinations, and timeless wisdom.

Topics Covered

• Chess history and famous players
• Biographical sketches and anecdotes
• Annotated master games
• Chess problems and combinations
• Tactical motifs and combinations
• Strategic thinking and positional ideas
• Opening, middlegame, and endgame examples
• Chess quotations, epigrams, and curiosities
• Memorable moments from chess history

Key Features

• Written by renowned chess author Irving Chernev
• Originally published by Simon & Schuster
• Combines History, Biography, and Instructional Play
• Includes Problems, Tactical Motifs, and Strategic Thinking
• Features instructive Openings, Middle Game, and Endings examples
• Contains entertaining stories, famous quotations, and practical chess advice
• Blends education with entertainment, making it enjoyable for readers of all strengths
• A classic work of chess literature for players, collectors, and historians

Recommended For

• Chess enthusiasts of all playing levels
• Club players and tournament competitors
• Chess collectors and historians
• Readers interested in the history and personalities of chess
• Anyone who enjoys the literary, artistic, and instructional side of the game