Jonathan Tisdall was an American player who, at some point, emigrated to Norway and eventually gained Norwegian citizenship. Like most International Masters, Jonathan dreamed of gaining the Grandmaster title. However, not being a Shirov or a Topalov (guys like us simply don't have the talent of these super players), Tisdall realized he would have to work like a maniac if he was ever going to achieve his goal.

This book contains the study program Tisdall devised for himself, and it should be pointed out that he indeed got the GM title after many years of ups and downs. It's also interesting to point out that he quit chess shortly after achieving his dream, in much the same way that Howell did. Evidently, getting the coveted GM title is one thing, supporting yourself with it is quite another!

As for the book, it's magnificent! Tisdall has a nice writing style in which he discusses every aspect of the areas he's studying. Logic, great wit, a love for his subject matter and intelligence shine through with every sentence.

In the first chapter, he makes a detailed study of the "Fabled Tree of Analysis," a system of thought first expounded in Kotov's great book, Think Like a Grandmaster. It all starts with a quote from Grandmaster Anatoly Lein: "I don't think like a tree--do you think like a tree?" This instantly humanizes the whole subject. Tisdall then goes on to explore Kotov's views in detail, agreeing with some of the Russian's points, showing the inaccuracy of others. In fact, what he really tries to do is show us how we can use that analytical system in a way that will actually bring positive results. This is done by mixing "concrete calculation and a verbal, abstract synthesis of the position."

He also addresses the idea of "talking to yourself," a concept I stress in my lessons and in my own book, How to Reassess Your Chess (I often rave that the more schizophrenic you are, the more you hold an inner dialogue with yourself, the better at chess you will become).

Next on the agenda is "Blindfold Chess and Stepping-Stone Diagrams." Here we tackle the very critical subject of how to improve the depth and clarity of your calculations; how to strengthen those, in my case flaccid, mental muscles. This whole chapter is extremely interesting to read. Infusing us with a sort of chessic viagra, Jonathan examines the habits of many younger Grandmasters who like to stare into space while calculating a variation. He tells us how to exercise our minds so they stay in peak condition. He leads us through the work of Alfred Binet, and he even offers us something he calls the "Swedish technique" (I became very excited at this point).

Chapter Three is "The Art of Playing Bad Positions." Once again, more great observations and recommendations fill the pages.

The rest of the book contains the following chapters: "Pattern Training (and other useful exercises) [this chapter alone will keep you busy for a long, long time!]," "The Value of the Pieces," "Wisdom and Advice," and, for the weaker player (the one bit of illogic in the book. Tisdall suddenly realizes that his material in NOT for the low rated student and, in a fit of guilt, tosses these players a bone) "Mating Patterns" and "Common Tactical Themes."

If you only buy one chess book a year and you're someone who really wants to improve his game and is willing to work hard to achieve that goal, make this the book you buy!

In a year of great books, this is my pick for book of the year.

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