Curse of Kirsan

Rating:
Summary: The "human" side of chess
Review: I just finished reading "Curse of Kirsan" after having it strongly recommended by a friend. It is a fascinating read, especially Chapter 5 "Some Unusual Positions" which describes in some detail the story of the smitten author's relentless quest to corner her idol, Garry Kasparov (Sarah ultimately tracks him down at his hotel, and finagles her way into his room). This book is well worth reading, particularly for those interested in the more "human" side of the world of chess.

Rating:
Summary: Absorbing Accounts from the World of High Stakes Chess
Review: It would be reasonable to assume that the focus of this book is Kirsan Ilyumzhinov, the controversial President of the world chess governing body (FIDE). Living up to the billing of its subtitle ("Adventures in the Chess Underworld") "Curse of Kirsan" does provide an engaging look into the seamier side of the money and politics which fuel competitive chess at its highest levels. (In fact, the book is dedicated to the memory of murdered journalist Larisa Yudina, a vocal critic of Ilyumzhinov).

However, for the larger part "Curse of Kirsan" is an immensely entertaining treatment of the divergent personalities populating the world of serious chess. Included are familiar names such as Alexander Alekhine and Andor Lilienthal, but also a host of lesser-known, but wonderfully unique, characters such as Andras Adorjan (a tireless proponent of what has been christened "Rainbow Chess").

My favorite chapter of the book is that dealing with Garry Kasparov. Hurst's humerous and self effacing recounting of her efforts to corner Kasparov for an interview provide both a highly amusing story and a captivating glimpse into the personality of perhaps the greatest player of all time.

Much of the book is in the form of personal interviews conducted by Hurst, and the personal touch she brings to the narrative makes it vastly more appealing than would be a simple recounting of people, places, and events. Hurst has a knack for effectively profiling her subjects in their own thoughts and words, and the result is a truly engrossing panorama. One needn't be a chess fanatic to enjoy "Curse of Kirsan".

Highly recommended.