Expert: Louis Lima - 11/10/2006

Question
Hi, I recently bought 303 perplexing chess puzzles by Fred Wilson. I'm not really sure how to do chess puzzles. I'm guessing you are supposed to move for both sides. For every puzzle they also give a hint(pin, fork, trapping etc etc etc.) Also, this book is rather hard. Can you suggest an easier on. Thank you for your time.
-Edwin

Answer
Dear Edwin,

I have seen Fred's book when visiting his bookstore in NYC, but have not read it. I will check out a copy at the book store this weekend so that I can assess the level, and be able to suggest something easier for you.

In the interim, one of the tactical books I use with my young students is "Winning Chess Exercises for Kids" - Though is aimed at kids, those positions are not necessarily very easy - The author is Jeff Coakley.

I have a list of free links to websites on tactics on my website, in case you want to view some puzzles and try to solve them online - http://chesstactics.wordpress.com/ - Just scroll down and click on the link "Free Links to Tactical Training". I have them grouped by tactical themes to help you gain familiarity with each one separately.

There is a new book called "Tactics for Scholastic Players" which came out this year. http://uscfsales.com/item.asp?cID=9&scID=188&PID=2065 - I have not reviewed it yet, but it claims to focus on teaching tactics for those rated below 1400 - which is the beginner level. You might want to check that out.

I hope this helps. Feel free to contact me at TenderDragon@Optonline.net if you have question related to tactics as you study and work on them. I have other articles on my site on tactics, but most of them are for intermediate players like myself.

Warmly,
Louis Lima