Here in this book are the essentials of mastering chess play. Lasker divides his book in the principles of opening play, attack, defense and endgame play with illustrated games to show how strategic principles are to be used. This book is not large but it is very complete. The principles are easy to understand and apply. There power is developed through higher and higher levels of practice. It is believed that there have only been five geniuses in chess, Emanuel Lasker, Capablanca, Morphy, Bobby Fisher and Alexander Alkehine. One can do no better than studying the brilliant games of these masters and their writings but I particulary recommend the works of Emanuel Lasker. His manuevering and techniques are very subtle but very powerful. Common Sense in chess is one of his better books and is an excellent course for those who know how to play the game. It is not a beginners course, but if you know the elements of the game, a thourough study and playing through the games can lead to chess mastery.