Balashov Yuri, Prandstetter Eduard. Basic Endgames: 888 Theoretical Positions

Translator: GM Igor Stohl.
Publisher: Prague Chess Agency, 1992.
Language: EnglishThis book deals with theoretical endgames. By this we mean endgames with a small number of pieces, which repeat themselves relatively regularly in practical play and were examined by chess analysts.Theoretical endgames are the foundation, without which endgame play can't be studied. There are several reasons for this: to play well it's necessary to know the legitimate result and the optimum continuation in endgames, that occur most often. Namely, it's not simple to find the right solution each time, not to mention the case when this solution is extremely difficult and the final truth has been discovered only by several generations of analysts or even a computer.But at the same time, knowledge of theoretical endgames substantially deepens the knowledge of endgame strategy. By studying this book, all the basic elements of successful endgame play can be mastered; then it's easier to comprehend the distinction in the movement of individual pieces. Last not least, the study of these endgames clearly demonstrates the vast richness of chess - why, this book is written only about endgames with a few pieces.