Backgammon

I actually have the original hardcover edition of this book when I purchased it in the early eighties (it's still in NM condition I might add). I had purchased many backgammon books in those days (eg. The Backgammon Book; Backgammon for Blood; etc) but this was the main one I referenced time and again and is one of the best book of its kind that came out of the seventies (and there were a lot of them). A professor of mathematics, Magriel organizes the principles and strategies in a very logical manner. He writes in concise non-technical language, breaking down every aspect of backgammon so its easy to understand even when discussing advanced theories of the game. It's been a good 15 years since I've got back into playing backgammon and will probably begin reading some of the latest books out there but I will still be referencing this one.

This textbook revolutionalized backgammon by introducing a set of guidelines for when to play safely and when to play boldly. These rules are the foundation of expert play. This book is essential for all aspiring experts.

This book greatly improved my game, and I recommend it to anyone who wants one of the BEST backgammon books available. Don't let the price put you off. If you budgeted for 2 books, forget both of them and get this one. I've read this for 4 months and still won't loan it out as I still haven't worn the 'new' off of it. Gives basic frameworks and explains more technical areas of the game. This book will drastically improve your game.

This book is very readable. The book is layed out in a format that explains each phase of the game in logical order. A player that masters the concepts in this book will be head and shoulders above the average player. The book was written a while back, so is missing a few of the modern theories. This is a minor matter. I recommend this highly to the beginning and intermediate player. It wouldn't hurt advanced players to read this too.