Book Recommendation

Attacking Chess: Aggressive Strategies and Inside Moves from the U.S. Junior Chess Champion
by: Josh Waitzkin
When I first ordered this book, I was more attracted to the title than anything else. However, when I started reading, it was unlike any chess book I've read before. Simple, clear diagrams....detailed insight into key moves...and super easy to follow! I didn't even need to set up a board to follow along. Contains a variety of chess themes, and a look into the life of a chess champion. Great for all ages.

For $14, you can't go wrong! Order/reviews:
http://www.amazon.ca/Attacking-Chess-Aggressive-Strategies-Champion/dp/0684802503/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1251387955&sr=8-5

Chess in the Library Website is Up!

The beautiful Chess in the Library website is up and running. Please take a look:
http://www.chessinthelibrary.com/

All credit to Yutong, Yuanling, and the rest of their website team!

More Than 600 Page Views!

Top Ten

For a little laugh...

Top 10 things chess players are good at (or think they're good at!)

1. Staring at plastic...or wood...depending on their style

2. Reading books

3. Writing blogs

4. Thinking while blindfolded

5. Withstanding the sound of a ticking clock (no wonder we can never get up in the morning!)

6. Talking in code (a.k.a. 1. e4 e5 2. Nf3....)

7. Eating bananas (they always seem to be in supply at Guelph tournaments...thanks Hal!)

8. Dreaming (of cash, and titles, and all that good stuff)

9. Arguing

10. Checkers

Mandarin Lessons

My mother just set up a blog offering Mandarin lessons in the GTA:
http://mandarinpractice.blogspot.com/

For all ages and skill levels! Mandarin is one of the most common languages in the world, and constantly growing in its application. You never know when you might need it...maybe to talk to a Chinese grandmaster!

Reader Input --> Puzzle!

Submitted by Predrag Putic!

Reader Input!

Do you have a game or person you wish me to feature on my blog? Email me --> chezzstar@gmail.com.

Games: I will analyze games when I find time, and post my comments on the blog. Please, only interesting games, no major blunders.

People: I will only feature someone if I receive permission from the person himself/herself, or from a close family member. It would help if some background info is provided along with the name.