Backgammon

Robin Clay     1977     164pp
Hodder & Stoughton     ISBN:0340222336

I was surprised to see this book for sale recently at a local book shop. This book was `skimmed' by two intermediate players, and both immediately found that the some of the concepts and advice given were grossly incorrect. One of these `reviewers', went as far as to say: "If your opponent says that he has just read this book, immediately raise the stakes!".

The aim of this book is to help the reader reach, or at least approach real competence. The text is divided into the teaching material in the first section and a quiz which allows the player to test himself and keep score by awarding points for the various moves. Clay does not aspire to the level of a Kleinman, but I think that a beginner who reads this book early in their backgammon career will take a significant step away from being fresh meat towards being a hunter.

He includes methods for calculating speed of movement (an interesting section where he suggests how to measure timing in a prime vs prime position), various shortcuts for counting races and generally lifts itself above the general run of the mill without, I think, losing the beginner.

I would recommend the book as being in the same range as Magriel or Heyken & Fischer while, at about 7 or 8 pounds, being easily the best value I have come across. It is the only decent, widely available book in the UK currently and deserves to be a great bargain for anyone who hasn't got Robertie's books.

Other book reviews welcome! Email them to DocMartin@Gammoned.com

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