Everyone knows My System and Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess—but these hidden gems deserve a spot on your bookshelf.
1. The Amateur’s Mind by Jeremy Silman
- Breaks down how beginners think vs. how experts think.
- Perfect for players stuck at the 1200–1600 level.
- Focuses on practical improvement, not memorization.
- Teaches you to exploit opponents’ weaknesses.
- A rigorous tactics-training system used by Grandmasters.
- Repeat puzzles until you solve them instinctively.
- Explores the psychology of chess and overcoming mental blocks.
- The legendary tactician’s autobiography, packed with outrageous sacrifices.
- Teaches positional principles through clear examples.
- A classic tournament book with annotations accessible to club players.
