Magnus Carlsen: 60 Memorable Games

This book is simply outstanding, and its one of the best annotated game-collections ever. Soltis's reporter instincts are on full display. He does a great job unpacking Magnus's personality and decision-making, and how these both changed over time as he matured as a player. The games included are carefully chosen either to illustrate the dimensions of Magnus's playing style and the stages of his career, or to cover important events. What really sets this book apart form others, however, is Soltis's analysis of the games and style of annotation. In some game-collection books, the analysis focuses mostly on tactics, at the expense of positional strategy. In others the annotation is either too brief or too extensive. Here, Soltis provides the perfect balance. His analysis covers the tactical as well as positional motives (and consequences) of moves (e.g., "White spent two tempi to provoke e5. Appreciating why this is worthwhile—and in this case, more than worthwhile—is difficult even for strong masters"). And although Soltis provides in-depth analysis when needed, he avoids it when a simple comment on the point of a move (played or overlooked) will suffice (e.g., "Control of the open a-file is enough for a small White plus after 14. ...Rb8, 15. axb5, axb5, 16. b4"). I've been reading Soltis's books since his days writing "Winning with the [insert opening]" books for Chess Digest. This is one of his absolute best.

Much more than a collection of the best player's best games. More than a career retrospective. More than a history of modern grandmaster chess filled with valuable anecdotes and quotes. More than the best possible analysis. More than excellent writing by the best of all chess writers. It's probably one of the top five chess books ever written. Yeah...it's that good!

Great quality book in every way. I've been playing chess for over 50+ years and this book has so many gems in it for improving your game strength and becoming a professional chess master.

I think they sent it by bicycle messenger, it took so long. Maybe next time mail it instead.

What a GREAT book. Lots and lots of food for thought and extremely well written. A delight to read and play over the games !

Excellent book. Dare, I say his endgame is better than Capablanca's endgame. He finds gems among the rubble of battle with such clarity. It's almost scary.

Great book. Patiently playing the games learning must occur. I find it amazing that he can give up so many back-row pieces and still win.

It's nice to replicate these Master's level games, but would like to have seen more explanation behind the moves/decisions.