Levy Rozman, a well-known chess content creator and International Master, brings his engaging teaching style from YouTube’s GothamChess channel to the pages of his book How to Win at Chess. This book is designed primarily for beginners and early intermediate players, catering to those with a chess rating between 0 and 1200 Elo. It’s filled with practical tips, humor, and insights, making it approachable even for those completely new to the game.
The book is divided into two main sections. The first part focuses on players rated between 0-800 Elo, covering foundational chess concepts like how pieces move, basic openings, simple tactics, and endgame principles. The second part shifts focus to slightly more experienced players (800-1200 Elo) and introduces more advanced concepts such as intermediate tactics, strategy, and specialized openings. Rozman explains these topics in a concise and digestible manner, which makes the book particularly useful for players looking to build their chess fundamentals without being overwhelmed.
One of the standout aspects of Rozman’s writing is his emphasis on explaining the “why” behind each move or strategy. This approach is especially beneficial for beginners, as understanding the reasoning behind actions helps solidify learning. However, while the book provides an excellent overview of the game, some reviewers have noted that it covers a lot of ground quite briefly. The brevity of certain sections might leave readers wanting more depth, particularly in complex areas like openings.
The book also incorporates interactive elements, including QR codes that link to additional resources on Rozman’s teaching platform, Chessly. This multimedia aspect is a great bonus for readers who enjoy blending traditional reading with digital learning, although some may feel that the reliance on online content detracts from the completeness of the book itself.
In terms of presentation, How to Win at Chess is visually appealing, with over 500 instructional diagrams that help readers visualize key concepts. However, its biggest strength lies in Rozman’s unique style—his signature wit and charm that have won over millions of followers translate well onto the page. His clear passion for the game shines through, making the book as enjoyable as it is informative.
While the book is perfect for beginner players and fans of Rozman’s online content, more advanced players might find it too elementary. That said, it serves as a solid introduction to chess and provides a great foundation for those looking to improve their skills up to the intermediate level. Overall, How to Win at Chess is a highly recommended resource for casual players and chess enthusiasts looking to start their journey into the world of chess.