Black and White Magic by Axel Smith (hardcover)

This Black and White Magic by Axel Smith is an English-language hardcover chess book that explores square complexes and the strategic use of light and dark squares, turning an important positional theme into practical guidance for the board.

What this book covers

GM Axel Smith draws on his experience as a player and coach to focus on the kinds of ideas that often shape the quality of positional play. The book looks at how to understand the relationship between white and black squares and how to use that knowledge when making decisions in real games.

It covers topics such as blockades, opposite-coloured bishops and exchange sacrifices in the context of square-complex strategy. Rather than offering a loose collection of examples, it gives you a structured way to work on pawn structures, weaknesses and long-term plans.

Practical training, not just theory

The book is designed to go beyond explanation. Carefully selected exercises help you check whether the ideas have really sunk in and whether you can apply them in practice. That makes Black & White Magic useful for self-study as well as for club players, coaches and ambitious tournament players looking to strengthen their strategic play.

About the author

GM Axel Smith is a respected chess author and the writer of titles including The Woodpecker Method, Pump Up Your Rating, e3 Poison and Street Smart Chess. His work is published by Quality Chess.

Key details

• Product type: hardcover chess book
• Author: Axel Smith
• Language: English
• Publisher: Quality Chess
• Subject: chess strategy and square complexes
• Focus: positional play and the strategic use of light and dark squares
• Exercises: includes carefully selected training exercises
• Binding: hardcover