My Seven Chess Prodigies. By John W. Collins. First Edition, First Printing. Simon & Schuster. New York, 1974.

John W. Collins was a notable chess master and author in the mid-twentieth century. Yet he is most well-known for his teaching and mentorship of some of the best chess players of all time. There is no doubt Collins had a knack for fostering talent. He famously tutored William Lombardy, Robert Byrne, and Bobby Fischer–three of the foundational players of great American chess–and many others. In My Seven Chess Prodigies, Collins documents his experiences and triumphs through his players. Each section is focused on a particular player, with parts dedicated to their greatest games. It is a remarkable work, one that captures much of the behind-the-scenes training that catapulted America’s best chess players.

This first edition, first printing is in very good condition. In the original full cloth, about-fine with only small tear to head of spine. Text block fine. In the original dust jacket, very good with only minor closed tears to top edge.

A very good first edition of My Seven Chess Prodigies.