Asa Hoffmann

This memoir is a collection of anecdotes and stories compiled by chess master Asa Hoffmann. He has played chess, checkers, backgammon, scrabble, and poker, as well as bet on the horses, all for big money. He is a self-described hustler in all of these games.

The stories are interesting and amusing, but many are of his friends and acquaintances, not widely known, and difficult for the reader to relate to. However, having said that, he has many stories of well-known chess and poker greats. He discusses both the Manhattan Chess Club and Marshall Chess Club and the chess scene in general in New York, including Washington Square and Union Square.

The book is relatively short and a quick read. There is a great photo section containing photos of some of chess’ greatest players. I recommend it to both chess players and non-players alike.… (mehr)