Readers not only learn the basics of chess and how to play it well, they also learn all about the game-from the world champions and famous games, to all sorts of chess trivia, to famous people who just love playing chess. The major openings, and some tricky ones as well, are presented in a simplified manner, then Schiller shows how to go on the attack, play the middle game, and then finish it. Ten different tactics are shown with many examples, plus the basic fifteen mates every player must know. An easy-to-read format, big print, many sidebars and clear explanations make the Big Book of Chess a pleasure to read!