Endgame Strategy

About This Book

Endgame Strategy by Mikhail Shereshevsky is considered one of the most important endgame manuals in chess literature. First published in 1981, this book has been thoroughly revised and expanded, with the author adding dozens of new and inspiring positions. It is highly recommended by club players, coaches, and grandmasters alike. Unlike technical endgame manuals that focus on theoretical positions like rook and pawn versus rook, Shereshevsky's book teaches how to play complex endings and queenless middlegames. The emphasis is on strategic understanding rather than memorization of specific positions. This approach makes the knowledge gained from this book applicable to a wide variety of practical situations. The book is organized around key strategic principles that govern endgame play. Shereshevsky covers essential concepts such as king centralization, the role of pawns, exchanging pieces, suppressing counterplay, the principle of two weaknesses, and the famous advice to "do not hurry." Each principle is illustrated with carefully selected examples from grandmaster practice. What makes this book particularly valuable is Shereshevsky's ability to explain why certain moves and plans work. He does not simply show what the best moves are but explains the underlying logic that makes them correct. This teaching approach helps readers develop their own judgment rather than relying on memorized patterns. The examples in the book are drawn from games by the greatest players in chess history, including Capablanca, Karpov, Smyslov, and many others. Shereshevsky analyzes these games with clarity and insight, highlighting the key moments and decisions that determined the outcome. The quality of the examples and analysis is exceptional. One of the book's most valuable lessons is the importance of patience in the endgame. Shereshevsky demonstrates how premature action often leads to disaster, while careful maneuvering and gradual improvement of position leads to victory. This wisdom applies not just to endgames but to chess in general. The revised edition includes additional material that makes an already excellent book even better. New positions and updated analysis ensure that the book remains relevant for modern players. Endgame Strategy has stood the test of time and continues to be essential reading for anyone serious about chess improvement.