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Paul Lamford 1999 128pp
The Lyons Press
ISBN:1585742090
Paul (another fine British player) starts you off with some basic strategy
and moves into the bulk of the work which includes 50 checker play problems and
50 cube decisions. All problems demonstrate decisions from basic strategy to
some of the more complex intricacies of the game. Each of these decisions are
backed up with analysis by both Jellyfish 3.5 and Snowie 2.0. Lamford concludes
with some information on computer programs and backgammon on the internet but
these are a lttle light and look to be mostly filler. There is an interesting
feature built into the problems as there is a rating system (like the ELO on
backgammon servers) where you can look up an estimate of your rating based on
the number of questions you answered correctly. Overall I really like Lamford's
problems inclucding his hints, tips, and lucid explanations. The rest of the
material didn't add much but it was interesting to see an author acknowledge the
significance of the bots (computer programs) and internet backgammon on the game
today.
| Level: Beginner-Advanced |
Ease of read: 7 |
Quality of material: 6 |
Overall: 7 |
Price: check amazon |
Martin Short, 10/25/01
As others have mentioned its a great little book. Its probably the most read
book I own for the simple reason that it fits nicely into a jacket pocket to
read on the bus or train etc. 50 puzzles are on checker play, the other 50 on
cube action. Each puzzle is devoted to one page with the answer at the bottom of
the following page (not the best format IMO I would prefer to have all the
answers at the end of each section). The author's analyses are quite brief,
(dont expect anything akin to 'New Ideas in Backgammon' for instance), but
instructive nevertheless. Each problem is accompanied by 'handy hints and tips'
section which summarize the salient points in memorable soundbites. The quiz
format allows the reader to estimate their ELO rating from a table at the back
of the book. The introductory section also contains Paul Lamford's PRAT
(Position Race And Threats) mnemonic for cube decisions which is simple but
effective. Check out the MSO website where Allan Webb wrote an article featuring
the PRAT concept. All in all a very good book for the price. Btw I noticed a UK
book shop knocking out the original edition copies at two pounds-fifty,
(Sterling) a while back, so you might find it cheaper via bookfinder.com or
Abebooks etc.
Mark Driver, from rec.games.backgammon 10/20/01
This book is fun. There are 100 positions, each followed by a short answer
and a quick tip. The puzzles are challenging, sometimes too challenging. That's
because some of them are slightly wrong, despite being checked by Snowie 2 and
Jellyfish. I think the book is worthwhile for a strong player who will not be
misled by the overly simplistic tips, some of which are quite wrong. For
example, following an example in which a loose hit was wrong, it advises not to
hit if your opponent has the stronger board. That's wrong. Not every hit is a
loose hit, and hitting doesn't necessarily lead to a hitting battle, or the
worst of one. Hitting can be a great way to get back into the game, and may be
the best way to slot a point.
Douglas Zare, from rec.games.backgammon,
10/19/01
I agree with the subtitle of the book about testing your skills.... but
definately not on Improving your game. The answers and the tips at the end of
each quiz are telegraphic ... nothing you would benefit from. Testing your
skills? Yes maybe the results of the tables can give you an idea of your level.
Luca Lodi from Rome, Italy, July 26, 2001
Other book reviews welcome! Email them to DocMartin@Gammoned.com
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