What it teaches
Grandmaster Yasser Seirawan, a four-time U.S. champion and one of the most likeable writers the game has had, wrote Play Winning Chess with Jeremy Silman as the opener of his Winning Chess series. It teaches the game through a handful of big ideas: force (material), time (development and tempo), space, and pawn structure. Each idea gets its own chapter with clear examples, so you learn to ask the right questions about any position.
Along the way Seirawan adds history and personal stories, which makes the book as enjoyable to read as it is useful.
Who it's for
Adults and teens starting out, or returning after years away, roughly up to 1200. If you've just learned the moves and want to understand why good players do what they do, this is one of the kindest introductions there is.
How to get the most from it
Read it straight through once, then go back and replay the examples on a board. The four principles are worth writing on a card and checking during your own games: "Who's ahead in development? Who has more space?"
Key takeaways
- Judge every position by force, time, space and pawn structure.
- Developing pieces quickly is an advantage you can measure in tempi.
- Space gives your pieces room and cramps your opponent's.
- Pawn moves are permanent, so each one deserves a second look.
Read next
Continue the series with Winning Chess Tactics and Winning Chess Strategies, then move up to Logical Chess: Move by Move.
