John Fairbairn (1)

A classic introduction to the great Japanese chess game. It teaches the rules accurately (unlike many books which have been written about the game), but also covers the most important skills you need to play the game well such as openings, castles, tactics and strategy in the middle game, as well as endgame and mating techniques. Finally there is a collection of professional games which you can play through.

Shogi may be the most exciting game in the chess family. Because pieces are never show more permanently removed from the game, but can be "dropped" back into play, games tend to culminate with both players furiously attacking each other. Draws are almost unheard of. Many chess players have been persuaded to try the game over the years, and some end up finding it so fascinating that they actually prefer it to chess. Certainly it is worth a try, and Fairbairn's presentation is both clear and concise. show less

A splendid introduction to Shogi! One of the best two English language introductions - the other is 'The Art of Shog' by Tony Hosking.

Just about everything is covered in this short book.

Along with '4 Great Games' by Tony Hosking, this is 'required reading'
for the novice English speaking Shogi player. A very good all-round
introduction.

Very good book. Very useful. I like very much the explanation of middle game and endgame basics. A bit light concerning openings however.