Devoted to Chess

This Devoted to Chess is an English-language chess book about Yuri Razuvaev that brings together biography, memories, annotated games, articles and speeches in one volume. It offers a rounded portrait of a major Soviet and international chess figure, while also showing how he thought about the game.

About the book

Yuri Razuvaev (1945–2012) was known for his refined positional style, his deep understanding of chess and his openness to new opening ideas. He was especially strong in team events, where he never lost a game for his side. He was also a respected opening theoretician and chess author, but it was as a trainer that he reached world-class standing.

The book includes stories and recollections from many players and contemporaries, giving a clearer picture of how he worked, what he passed on to his students and why contact with him was so valuable. Razuvaev worked with names such as Karpov, Kramnik, Gelfand, Lautier, Fressinet, Salov, Tomaszewski, Topalov and Alexandra Kosteniuk. Magnus Carlsen and Fabiano Caruana also studied with him.

What’s inside

Devoted to Chess is more than a memoir. It also includes a selection of Razuvaev’s best games, presented in an accessible way by him and by other authors. The volume is completed by some of his most interesting articles and speeches on different aspects of chess. That makes it relevant not only for readers interested in chess history, but also for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of strategy, strengths and weaknesses in play.

In the foreword, Vladimir Kramnik highlights the value of this legacy with the words: “Studying the creative heritage of Yuri Razuvaev will bring you great benefits”. It is a good guide to what this book offers: not just a portrait of the man, but also material for chess study.

Edition information

• Language: English
• Binding: paperback
• Page count: 352
• Subject: Yuri Razuvaev
• Content: biography, memories, analysed games, articles and speeches
• Focus: chess training, opening theory and positional play
• Included: book

This is a strong choice for readers interested in chess history, top-level training and the work of one of the most respected chess teachers of his generation.

Key details

• Product type: chess book
• Title: Devoted to Chess
• Language: English
• Binding: paperback
• Page count: 352
• Subject: Yuri Razuvaev
• Content: biography, memories, analysed games, articles and speeches
• Focus: chess training, opening theory and positional play