| The recent Gambit publications offering Endgame Challenge (2002, paperback, 256 pages, figurine algebraic, $24.95, http:/www.gambitbooks.com) by Grandmaster John Nunn seeks to bring new converts to a long-time staple of Soviet chess training. Most over- the- board players look askance at chess problems, and despite the excellent book Solving in Style by the same author and publisher, I think they always will. The artificial nature of composed checkmates, where one side often possesses a preponderance of force, are too far removed from regular chess no matter how ingenious. Endgame studies are a different matter. Endgame studies, which typically feature just a handful of pieces, usually look very much like they might have been taken from an actual game. They offer the reader benefit in several ways. From a utilitarian standpoint solving such studies undoubtedly improves calculating ability as well as general endgame knowledge. It also stimulates fantasy and gives much aesthetic enjoyment. Endgame Challenge presents the reader with 250 well-chosen examples to solve. The oversize format of the book (roughly 10 � by 7 � ) means the diagrams are quite good size and the studies can be solved directly from the book if so desired. Another plus is that unlike most books on endgame studies, which typically give only a bare-bones, Endgame Challenge offers the student very derailed solutions with a plenty of prose explanation. Those who possess older books on studies like 1234 Modern Endgame Studies or 1357 Endgame Studies will find that this book has little overlap with its predecessors. While classic studies of the past by Reti and Mattison can be found, the two best represented composers are from the Caucasus. David Gurgenidze and Genrikh Kasparian account for roughly 15 percent of the studies in this book. This book, which can be recommended without reservation, would be a good choice for the non-chess player looking for a Christmas present for a chess player. |