Description
Signed by the Australian grandmaster. A positional book for those who want to improve. A provocative title and a niche topic are surprisingly inspiring. Boris Gelfand in the foreword reveals that eighty games or fragments are examined to reveal the secrets of an isolated d pawn positions. It is typical that few people understand how to defend or create active play in such positions. This intriguing book shines a light on revealing typical patterns in the ending and that includes positions where the queen and rooks are still on the board. Australias grandmaster Ian Rogers needs no introduction but Hazai is a renowned chess coach and analyst who famously helped the Polgar sisters to stellar success. The two of them have successfully selected examples that illustrate a positional or tactical point. I know that Rogers himself has warned people off buying the book unless they are of a certain standard but we all aspire to be good, so share the joy.Now the studious competitor might learn a lot from close examination of a chapter or two but I think most club players will dip in and out to find a few golden insights. It is very helpful that the games are entertaining, so even if you no longer care about isolated d pawns the twists and turns of a master game are also a pleasure to read.A high level book that can be enjoyed by all keen players. Softback, 272 pages.
