As I delved into book 3 of the series, I started to have a sense of longing for some of the fundamental aspects that I had initially overlooked. I had thought I was already well-versed in all those basics. So, I decided to purchase this particular volume as well, and I'm truly glad I did. I have a genuine enjoyment for the entire series. There is a clear and logical progression within the books, and the writing style is highly readable. The books do an excellent job of clearly explaining all the common patterns, techniques, and things that one should be vigilant about. Moreover, it offers helpful and often humorous advice regarding one's mental attitude. I believe I found the latter to be the most beneficial. (Such as staying calm, being graceful, and not giving up after making a blunder.) My proficiency in the game of Go has shown a noticeable improvement. However, one of the last sentences of the book is unfortunately quite outdated. As things stand now, the best Go computers play only at the level of an experienced beginner. If you've read this book, you are already around the level of the most sophisticated computer. The challenging field of Go computing remains wide open. (This was written in 1994.)
A very clear and practical introduction to Go is presented here. It commences with a detailed explanation of the rules, which is essential for any beginner. This introduction encompasses all the fundamental aspects that are required to commence playing meaningful and enjoyable games of Go. It provides a solid foundation for those who are new to this fascinating game. Recommended to all beginners, it serves as a great starting point. The rest of the series builds nicely upon this base, step by step. Each subsequent installment further elaborates and expands on the concepts introduced in this initial introduction, gradually guiding the learner towards a more advanced level of understanding and proficiency in playing Go.
This is an excellent primer on the game of Go. It comprehensively covers all the necessary information one needs to get started with this fascinating game. The content is presented in a very well-organized and engaging manner, making it easy for beginners to understand and follow. The book not only provides detailed explanations of the rules and strategies but also includes practical examples and illustrations to enhance the learning experience.
In addition to the great content, the inclusion of the pieces and board is a huge plus. It allows readers to immediately start playing and practicing what they have learned. This hands-on approach is extremely beneficial for quickly grasping the concepts and improving one's skills. Overall, this is a highly recommended book for anyone interested in learning Go. It earns 4 stars for its excellent content and an additional 1 star for the inclusion of the pieces and board.