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.
Bobby 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.
This 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.
Now in its first moderately priced paperbound edition, Bobby Fischer: Profile of a Prodigy will appeal not only to chess aficionados but to anyone fascinated by the turbulent career and complex personality of one of the greatest chess players of all time.