ashby@uiucdcsp.CS.UIUC.EDU (11/26/85)
First, you should learn chess notation asap. It is absolutely essential if you expect to improve. You will need to learn both systems of notation, the descriptive (or English) and the algebraic. As far as a good book, I highly recommend "Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess." It is a compendium of chess problems, mostly back-rank mates. Some may scoff, but I consider it a great book (pb) for a beginner. Unfortunately, I can't think of any other titles offhand. Several authors come to mind, though: Irving Chernev, Fred Reinfeld, I.A. Horowitz, Raul Capablanca (Chess Fundamentals, or some such title, is a classic), and Aaron Nimzovitz. Finally, I urge you to become a member of the United States Chess Federation, if you are not already a member. There are three big benefits of membership: (1) You get Chess Life. From time to time there are articles geared to the beginner. And even if you are no expert, you can still learn a lot from the annoted games. (2) You get to play in rated tournaments. After all, there is no better way to improve than to play. (3) You get a discount on a variety of equipment, including books. I suggest you visit your local library and get some of the back issues of CL. In particular, look at the November issue. It has a catalog in it, and there may be some suggestions as to good books for beginners. It will also tell you where to write for more info. Well, I hope this has been of some help. Good luck, and may all your pawns becomes Queens!