The Immortal Game: A History of Chess [Paperback]

A fresh, engaging look at how 32 carved pieces on a board forever changed our understanding of war, art, science, and the human brain.

Chess is the most enduring and universal game in history. Here, bestselling author David Shenk chronicles its intriguing saga, from ancient Persia to medieval Europe to the dens of Benjamin Franklin and Norman Schwarzkopf. Along the way, he examines a single legendary game that took place in London in 1851 between two masters of the time, and relays his own attempts to become as skilled as his Polish ancestor Samuel Rosenthal, a nineteenth-century champion. With its blend of cultural history and Shenk’s lively personal narrative,The Immortal Gameis a compelling guide for novices and aficionados alike.

Praise for David Shenk’sThe Immortal Game

“Elegant . . .  A true page-turner, and a superb introduction to the game of chess.” —The Wall Street Journal

“Clear, elegant, sophisticated and easy to understand. . . . Just the thing to get you in the thrall of this ancient game.” —Los Angeles Times

“Shenk, a spry writer. . . . [Offers] a strong case for the game’s bewitching power.” —The New York Times Book Review

“Shenk’s book possesses an almost inestimable advantage over the many other publications about chess. . . . You can be an utter novice, just a simple wood-pusher, and enjoy the author’s engaging prose, honest self-deprecation (he’s a lousy player), and the charm of his personal connection to the game.” —The Washington Post

“Fresh and fascinating . . . A world-spanning story [Shenk] relates with skill and verve.” —Chicago Sun-Times

David Shenk is the nationally bestselling author of six books, includingThe Genius in All of Us,The Immortal Game, Tlc2