Bobby Fischer, in Two Essential Books
Both books should be purchased and enjoyed together.
I can’t remember a time when I have had as much enthusiasm for two chess books in recent memory.
Highlights
- Outstanding archival photos and rare memorabilia.
- Deeply annotated games featuring Fischer’s own notes.
- Strong New Jersey connections: Asbury Park and West Orange.
- Thoughtful coverage of Fischer’s later years and 1992 comeback.
Inside the Mind of Bobby Fischer
The author uncovers remarkable photos and artifacts to showcase Bobby.
Inside the Mind brings us directly into Fischer’s thought process through richly annotated games—
many with his own handwritten notes.
The photographed original scoresheet of the “Game of the Century” alone is worth the price.
I learned what music Bobby liked and his favorite actor—perfectly fitting the era.
The insight into the Sherwin game from the NJ Open and one of the classics from
My 60 Memorable Games is especially meaningful.
I had the pleasure of knowing Sherwin well and inducting both into the Hall of Fame.
References to American Chess Quarterly—publisher of
A Bust to the King’s Gambit—brought me back to the earliest chess articles I devoured.
Bobby Fischer and his World
The larger volume offers a rich historical portrait of Fischer:
his US Amateur trips to Asbury Park and early days at the Log Cabin Chess Club in West Orange.
Bobby’s New Jersey roots run deep—his grandmother’s time at Greystone Psychiatric Hospital in Parsippany
is part of a tapestry of stories that make this book one you can return to again and again.
From his appearance on To Tell the Truth, through Jack Collins, the sixties,
and the World Championship quest—every chapter adds depth.
Jerry Hanken’s article and Ron Gross’s lifelong friendship add remarkable personal insight.
The author handles the darker years with care and clarity, culminating in the 1992 comeback match.