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PRE-ORDER: DUE MARCH 2026
Akiba Rubinstein: Uncrowned Chess Champions by Boroljub Zlatanovic
Chess literature, specifically games collections, have typically focussed on the games of the world Champions — the names etched forever into trophies, record books, and collective memory. Yet for every crowned king, there were rivals of extraordinary strength who stood just one step away from immortality. Uncrowned Chess Champions is a new series dedicated to those remarkable players who, despite their brilliance, never claimed the ultimate title. These were masters who dominated tournaments, shaped opening theory, inspired generations, and in many cases came agonizingly close to the World Championship crown.
Rubinstein is the subject of the first in a new series of titles - with the author focussing on Rubinstein's logical style of chess play. A style that emphasised consistent piece centralisation and harmony, delaying pawn advances until optimal development has been achieved, and the principle of patience—“do not rush.” Through these ideas, he became the first truly complete chess player, favouring clear, methodical, and risk-free play over speculation or brilliance for its own sake.
The author positions Rubinstein as the essential mentor for players aspiring to reach master level, particularly in the middlegame and endgame. The book is structured to reflect this philosophy, beginning with endgame masterpieces, then moving through centralisation, strategic foundations, activity and harmony, and finally logic and psychology, highlighting the human struggle behind the game. The 64 selected games are chosen for their instructional clarity and beauty, with the goal of helping readers adopt Rubinstein’s principles and develop a lasting appreciation for his natural, effective style.
ISBN: 9789493435186, Hardback, 276 pages, Thinkers Publishing
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