Annotated gamesThe first book to read
by Irving Chernev
Thirty-three master games with every single move explained in plain words. Many club players say this is the book that made chess click.
Best forPlayers who know the rules and want to understand why moves are played
Some opening ideas show the book’s age; the thinking it teaches does not.
Compare
First stepsBobby Fischer Teaches ChessBobby Fischer, Stuart Margulies and Donn MosenfelderA programmed course of hundreds of one-step questions that trains you to spot checkmates, especially on the back rank.Under $25Under $50
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 $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
Books · TacticsThe Woodpecker MethodAxel Smith and Hans TikkanenMore than a thousand tactics puzzles and a training plan: solve the set, then solve it again faster until the patterns are automatic.$25 to $40$50 to $150Chosen 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
