Mikhail Tal is one of the most celebrated chess players of all time. The eighth World Champion not only won the title at a record young age, but did so using a ferocious, high-risk attacking style. Tal s spectacular games, along with his charming personality and witty sense of humour, endeared him to the chess public like no other player. Cutting-edge chess analysis is complemented by the engaging story of Tal s career and other life events. The book also contains numerous anecdotes from famous players who share their memories of Tal. In this, the first of three volumes, Karolyi explores Tal s early life and career up to the end of 1959, including his victory in the formidable Candidates tournament where he earned the right to challenge Botvinnik for the world title."