Recommended chess books
Here are a few lists of must‑have books for serious tournament players, listed from most basic to most advanced.
Levels
Getting Started
Learning piece names and moves
Beginning
Learning how to play including basic strategies
How to Beat your Dad at Chess
by Murray Chandler
Chess Tactics for Kids
by Murray Chandler
Chess Puzzles for Kids
by Murray Chandler
Checkmate for Children – Mastering the Most Important Skill in Chess
by Kevin Stark
Intermediate
Developing strategies, tactics, and planning ahead
Power Chess for Kids
by Murray Chandler
If you only one book at this level, buy this one!
Power Chess for Kids, Volume 2
by Murray Chandler
Alpha Teach Yourself Chess in 24 Hours
by Zsuzsa Polgar and Hoainhan Truong, and Alan Horvitz
Great book for parents to learn how to play and how to guide your child. Also, for older children.
Learn Chess the Right Way Book 1: Must‑Know Checkmates
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Learn Chess the Right Way Book 2: Winning Material
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Learn Chess the Right Way Book 3: Mastering Defensive Techniques
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Learn Chess the Right Way Book 4:
Sacrifice to Win!
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Learn Chess the Right Way Book 5:
Finding Winning Moves!
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
A World Champion’s Guide to Chess
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Advanced
Serious Tournament Players (Rating 800+)
Chess Tactics for Champions
by Susan Polgar and Paul Truong
Rating 1000+ and 9 yrs old or Rating 1100+ for younger children
Modern Chess Openings
By Nick de Firmian
15th Edition or newer