Forthcoming chess books

Discovering a Legend
"​Aron Nimzowitsch: On the Road to Chess Mastery, 1886-1924" by Per Skjoldager & Jørn Erik Nielsen (originally published in hardcover in 2012, now available in paperback)

One of the most influential chess players of all time, Aron Nimzowitsch was a pioneer in the development of Hypermodern Chess and his legacy continues to shape the game today. In this first full-scale biography, authors Per Skjoldager and Jørn Erik Nielsen take us on a journey through Nimzowitsch's early life in Denmark, his education, and his passion for the game. This book explores his tournament games and records, his disagreement with influential chess teacher Siegbert Tarrasch, and his role in the evolution of Hypermodern Chess. With nearly 450 games and the only narrative of Nimzowitsch from 1914 to 1924, this biography is the most comprehensive treatment of the chess legend available.

This book has received high praise from multiple sources, including British Chess Magazine, IM John Donaldson, and Chess Today, for its thorough research, comprehensive exploration of Nimzowitsch's life, and beautiful presentation. The authors have left no stone unturned in their quest to uncover the mystery surrounding the early years of one of the greatest innovators in chess history. Whether you're a fan of chess history or simply looking to deepen your understanding of the game, "Aron Nimzowitsch: On the Road to Chess Mastery, 1886-1924" is a can't-miss.


A Journey Through the Legends of Chess
"Chess Greats: The Thirteen Greatest Players In History With Short Biography and Sample Game" by David Petrozzi (only available on Kindle)

This comprehensive book takes you on a journey through the lives and games of some of the greatest chess players to ever grace the board. With a focus on beginner to intermediate players, as well as history students of the game, the book offers a unique reading experience with its blend of history, biography, and annotated games.

The book covers 13 of the most legendary chess players of all time, including Paul Morphy, Wilhelm Steinitz, Emanuel Lasker, Jose Raul Capablanca, Alexander Alekhine, Michael Botvinnik, Mikhail Tal, Robert Fischer, Anatoly Karpov, Gary Kasparov, Vladimir Kramnik, Viswanathan Anand, and Magnus Carlsen. Each chapter opens with a brief overview of the player's personality and playing style, before diving into a detailed biography and annotated game to showcase their skills.

The author has gone to great lengths to bring a fresh perspective to the history of chess, including several rare insights you won't find in other chess literature. He's also included a selection of quick and easy-to-follow miniatures, as well as key battles that show the players' mastery of mid-game strategies and their rivalries.

David Petrozzi is a chess enthusiast and has been studying and playing the game for years. He is passionate about sharing his love for chess with others and has a great desire to help people understand the history and the players that have shaped this amazing game. Whether you're a casual chess player or a seasoned veteran, this book offers a unique and entertaining look at the legends of the game and the way they've shaped its history.


The Rise and Fall of a Chess Legend
"Black & White: The Rise and Fall of Bobby Fischer" by Julian Voloj & Wagner Willian (coming April 4, 2023)

Bobby Fischer was considered a chess prodigy, known for his exceptional skills and a unique personality that caught the attention of the world. This hardcover graphic novel, "Black & White: The Rise and Fall of Bobby Fischer", delves into the life of the legendary chess player and the legacy he left behind. Written by Julian Voloj and beautifully illustrated by Wagner Willian, this book covers the life of Fischer from his humble beginnings in Brooklyn to his rise as the youngest-ever US Chess Champion and grandmaster.

The book follows Fischer's journey from a solitary childhood to his stratospheric accomplishments in the world of competitive chess. In 1972, he played against Boris Spassky, the Soviet Union’s chess champion, in what was truly “the game of the century”, at the height of the Cold War. Fischer's rise to fame brought unprecedented attention to the game of chess and solidified his place in pop culture.

However, the book also examines Fischer's descent into mental illness and eventual disgrace. Despite his Jewish heritage, Fischer succumbed to paranoia and became lost in anti-Semitic conspiracy theories. He eventually died as a fugitive in Iceland. "Black & White" provides a complete picture of Fischer's life and the lasting impact he had on the world of chess and beyond.

The author Julian Voloj is a graphic novelist and screenwriter, born in France and now living in New York. This is his first-ever graphic novel about a real-life historical figure. The illustrator, Wagner Willian, is a Brazilian artist known for his detailed and evocative illustrations. Together, the author and illustrator have crafted a fascinating and beautifully illustrated book that is sure to captivate audiences.


Speed Demon: The Story of the Cat That Pounced on Chess
"Speed Demon: The Fascinating Games and Tragic Life of Alexey Vyzhmanavin" by Dmitry Kryakvin (coming April 15, 2023)

"Speed Demon: The Fascinating Games and Tragic Life of Alexey Vyzhmanavin" is a tribute to one of the most colorful characters in the chess world, Russian GM Alexey Vyzhmanavin. The book, written by GM Dmitry Kryakvin, delves into Vyzhmanavin's life through the memories of dozens of people, including his ex-wife Lyudmila.

The book is a mix of fascinating chess games, anecdotes, and some heartbreaking moments. Vyzhmanavin was celebrated for his fluid and enterprising style, having reached the semi-final in a PCA event in 1994, beating Alexei Shirov and Viktor Korchnoi along the way. However, he also battled with depression and alcoholism, which ultimately led to his untimely death at the age of forty in 2000, under circumstances that remain unclear.

Speed Demon is a testament to Vyzhmanavin's chess legacy, showcasing his greatest victories and the struggles that defined his life. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the fascinating and complex lives of those who dedicate themselves to the game.


The Forgotten Chess Prodigy
"George H. Mackenzie: A Chess Biography with 1,272 Games" by John S. Hilbert (coming May 28, 2023)

It's surprising how many great chess players have been forgotten over the years, but that's why books like "George H. Mackenzie: A Chess Biography with 1,272 Games" by John S. Hilbert are so important. George H. Mackenzie was a top ten world chess player, who dominated the U.S. scene for over 25 years. Born in Scotland, Mackenzie was embraced by American chess players and was loved as an entertainer wherever he toured.

Despite his impressive record and worldwide fame, no comprehensive biography or collection of his games has ever been published, until now. John S. Hilbert has done a fantastic job of bringing Mackenzie's life and achievements back to the forefront. The book covers Mackenzie's family life, painting a picture of a man who faced great tragedy in his personal life. Despite these hardships, Mackenzie was able to maintain a successful and illustrious chess career, becoming one of the top 10 chess players in the world. 

The author delves into Mackenzie's service in the American Civil War and his role in the British army, offering a fascinating account of his military career. The book also explores Mackenzie's relationships with the New York, national, and international chess communities, and his impact on shaping the chess community and leaving a lasting impact on the game. Finally, the author sheds light on the mysterious and questionable circumstances surrounding Mackenzie's death, which have remained a mystery for over a century.

It's great to see such a thorough and detailed book about a chess player who has been overlooked for too long. Whether you're a chess historian, or simply a fan of the game, "George H. Mackenzie: A Chess Biography with 1,272 Games" is a must-have in your collection.