Vladimir Kramnik - The Inside Story of a Chess Genius by Carsten Hensel (De tapa dura)

Vladimir Kramnik is one of the greatest chess players of all time. From 2000 to 2007, the Russian held the title of Classical World Chess Champion. He contributed significantly to the reunification of the world title, set trends in numerous opening systems, and remains one of the strongest and most influential players on the planet.

This book tells the remarkable story of Kramnik’s top-level clashes, while providing an exciting view behind the scenes of the chess world. Added to this are Kramnik’s own comments on some of his most memorable games, as well as numerous colour photographs.

“Art and chess are just different fields, in which the same poetry finds expression.” – Vladimir Kramnik, 14th World Chess Champion

“Vladimir Kramnik is one of the most talented players, perhaps THE most talented player, whom I have met in my chess career... There are some positions, like for example with the bishop pair or with a central passed pawn, which he played as if with divine inspiration.” – Artur Yusupov

Carsten Hensel is a sports manager, event organizer and journalist, who was Kramnik’s long-time manager.

ISBN: 978-1-78483-076-2 - 256 pages - Published 14 November 2018

Reviews

"The present book is both biography and game collection, but [...] emphasizes Kramnik the man as seen by his manager and friend Carsten Hensel during his glory days in the 2000s. Hensel handles the biographical section while Kramnik comments on the most important games of his career.

All Quality Chess books feature outstanding production qualities and the present work is no exception. This hardback book with high quality paper is nicely laid out and features many beautiful color and black and white photos.

Vladimir Kramnik - The Inside Story of a Chess Genius is the rare chess book which can be read from cover to cover in one sitting."

IM John Donaldson

"With many beautiful photos, this is the story by an insider from the team of Kramnik, who after defeating Kasparov in 2000 (which proves his great qualities) successfully defended his title until he had to relinquish it to Anand in 2008. There is a lot of personal information provided by the author. A good informative book."

Bab Wilders, Nederlands Dagblad