Bobby Fischer

"Frank Brady, who is as familiar with Fischer as anyone on the New York chess scene possibly could be, has furnished an explanation which neither exonerates nor condemns Mr. Fischer . . . we found it fascinating." -- Library Journal

Considered by many the most extraordinary phenomenon in the history of chess and perhaps the strongest player who ever played the game, Robert James "Bobby" Fischer is also, undeniably, one of the most controversial. His unusual demands during tournaments, off-the-board antics, and unexplained forfeiture of his world title have brought him a notoriety uncharacteristic of most chess champions.

Both Fischer's chess brilliance and his uncommon behavior are explored in this comprehensive, carefully researched volume. Frank Brady, noted chess player, teacher, writer, and tournament director, has known Bobby Fischer since the latter was eleven years old. He has been present at various behind-the-scenes episodes in Fischer's tempestuous career, and discussed Fischer with many grandmasters, including several former world champions. That personal involvement adds a special dimension of intimate knowledge to this work.

The book is virtually three books in one: a complete biography, an analysis of 90 representative games that trace Fischer's rise to chess supremacy, and a complete history of the Fischer-Spassky World Championship Match (1972). Also included are 15 pages of cross-table results of Fischer's performance in major tournaments, 16 pages of photographs, as well as reproductions of Fischer's original score sheets and letters.