First steps
by Bobby Fischer, Stuart Margulies and Donn Mosenfelder
A programmed course of hundreds of one-step questions that trains you to spot checkmates, especially on the back rank.
Best forComplete beginners and children
It covers mating patterns only: no openings or strategy.
Compare
For kidsChess for ChildrenMurray Chandler and Helen MilliganA colourful, friendly introduction written for young children, with cartoon diagrams and short chapters.Under $25Under $50
First stepsPlay Winning ChessYasser Seirawan and Jeremy SilmanA grandmaster’s friendly first course: the basic principles of force, time, space and pawn structure, explained with stories.Under $25Under $50
The first book to readAnnotated gamesLogical Chess: Move by MoveIrving ChernevThirty-three master games with every single move explained in plain words. Many club players say this is the book that made chess click.Under $25Under $50Goes well with
Best first smart boardSmart boards · Smart boardChessnut AirChessnutA compact board that recognises every piece and lights up your opponent’s moves. It is the board most people buy first.$249.99$150 to $400
Best for learningSmart boards · Teaching smart boardChessUp 2Bryght LabsA Wi-Fi board with a touchscreen that shows legal moves and rates your choices as you play. Chess.com supports it officially.$349.99$150 to $400Chosen because players widely use and recommend it, not because a maker paid to be listed. We don’t earn commissions from these links. Prices change often; check the store before you buy. About this guide
