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This My Great Predecessors 2: Euwe, Botvinnik, Smyslov & Tal by Garry Kasparov is an English-language hardcover chess book that combines history, analysis and Kasparov’s own perspective on four world champions who helped shape modern chess.
What this volume covers
This second volume in the My Great Predecessors series focuses on the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th World Chess Champions: Max Euwe, Mikhail Botvinnik, Vasily Smyslov and Mikhail Tal. Rather than giving a simple record of results, Kasparov examines each champion’s style and their place in chess history.
It is a strong choice for readers who want to understand how top-level chess developed over time, from Euwe’s and Botvinnik’s strategic precision to Tal’s creative energy. It also suits a chess history collection or as a reference for ambitious players studying classic games.
Edition and format
This edition is issued in hardcover and runs to 608 pages. The series has been reissued with updated print quality, modern fonts and a refreshed visual design, making it practical for regular reading and for working through the games.
The book was also recognised as ECF Book of the Year 2004 Runner-up.
Key details
- Product type: hardcover chess book
- Language: English
- Author: Garry Kasparov
- Series: My Great Predecessors
- Subject: the 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th World Chess Champions
- Page count: 608
- Binding: hardcover
- Award: ECF Book of the Year 2004 Runner-up
Tangible precision
Each move strengthens curiosity, concentration, and self-confidence.

