This
book represents Nunn’s selection of the
250 greatest endgame studies. Naturally, when
a person gives “his selection” of
anything, there will always be countless voices
arguing to the contrary. In fact, Nunn has left
out several very complex Benko studies that I
feel (Since I just did a book on Benko, my opinion
is obviously self-serving!) are far superior to
most in this book, but I’m sure his reasons
for doing so are impeccable. Since Nunn’s
credentials in this rather esoteric field are
extremely impressive, his choices must be looked
at with the utmost respect.
Perhaps my favorite part of the book has little
to do with the coveted studies. In the introduction,
Nunn shows us how his vast knowledge of studies
helped him find problem-like ideas in his over
the board practice. I would have enjoyed hundreds
of pages on this theme (i.e., pattern recognition
making difficult decisions far easier), but instead
he only gave a few. However, if Dr. Nunn is listening
he might take note and do a “pattern recognition,
over the board play, and you” book. It would
surely be a huge success.
So, is ENDGAME CHALLENGE instructive, useful,
interesting, or simply good fun? What audience
is it aimed at? Is it worth the 25 bucks? The
book is another quality Gambit product, and Nunn
does his usual excellent job. The real question
is: are you (as the potential buyer) interested
in endgame studies? If so, then this book will
prove highly enjoyable. As for a target audience,
I would guess players from 1900 on up would find
it something they could grasp, though some individuals
at any level will undoubtedly get a lot of pleasure
from these lovely positions. Fun? That depends
on you. Personally, I’m fascinated by endgame
studies, and always have a good time looking at
them.
All in all, this is a solid book, but it’s
not going to improve your understanding of openings,
middlegames, or positional play. Fortunately,
chess has many levels, and the world of studies
(especially endgame studies, which tend to be
realistic) is something that is not well known
to the masses of players, but is addictive once
you give it a try.
YOU
CAN FIND THIS BOOK AT
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