The Road to Reykjavik by Tibor Karolyi (softcover)

The Road to Reykjavik by Tibor Karolyi is an English-language softcover chess book about Bobby Fischer’s road to the World Championship match in Reykjavik. It follows his rise from a gifted junior to a leading contender for the world title.

What the book covers

Tibor Karolyi traces one of the most important chapters in chess history: Robert James Fischer’s road to Reykjavik. The book follows the steps that led to the famous 1972 match, with a clear focus on Fischer’s development, ambition and the sequence of victories that made him an icon of the game.

It also covers the qualifying matches that shaped his challenge, including his wins over Mark Taimanov and Bent Larsen, followed by a convincing victory against Tigran Petrosian. The result is both a biographical overview and a fuller picture of how Fischer earned his place as World Championship challenger.

Why read it?

This is a strong choice for readers interested in chess history, Bobby Fischer’s career, and the Fischer–Spassky 1972 match. It helps explain the significance of the events that led to the Reykjavik encounter, one of the most closely followed matches in chess.

The author, Tibor Karolyi, is an International Master, former Hungarian champion, trainer and chess author. The second volume, Fischer – Spassky 1972, is devoted to the Reykjavik match itself.

Key details

• Product type: softcover chess book
• Language: English
• Author: Tibor Karolyi
• Subject: Bobby Fischer’s road to the World Championship match in Reykjavik
• Scope: Fischer’s rise from talented junior to world-leading contender
• Historical context: qualifying matches against Mark Taimanov, Bent Larsen and Tigran Petrosian
• Publication: October 2021