This expertly presented book, updated in 2021/2 edition, tells you everything you need to know about chess. All the pieces and modern rules and terminology of chess are explained in an accessible and structured way, together with an evocative history of the game and its greatest players. The different strategies are explained along with how to manage the game as it progresses from opening through the middle game to the end game. Analysis and teaching commences at the most basic level, before moving on to intermediate and more advanced levels. Some of the historic chess masterpiece games are also explored in detail as inspiration for tactical play. Then the book offers ideas about where to play chess and who to play against. Options are outlined such as rapid play or blitz chess, which have timed finishes, and slow methods, such as correspondence chess, which involves long distance play. Understand the rules of the game, pieces and the chess board; includes the basics: how to practise, strategies for attack and defence and how to win the game; teaches chess opening strategies, middle games and good end game techniques at different levels of skill and experience; includes different ways of playing chess such as online chess, fast (rapid play and blitz) and slow games (correspondence chess); offers advice for becoming a more advanced player and playing in competition and even at a Chess Congress.

Author John Saunders learned chess when he was a young child, and has played competitively since he was at secondary school. As well as winning several open tournaments, he has played internationally for Wales. He provides chess coverage for BBC Ceefax and has been the editor of the world's oldest chess periodical, British Chess Magazine (founded 1881) since 1999.