Recommended Books
By Skill Level
Beginner (Under 1200)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Silman's Complete Endgame Course | Jeremy Silman | Rating-based progression — study only what you need for your current level |
| Pandolfini's Endgame Course | Bruce Pandolfini | Clear, concise introductions to essential positions |
Intermediate (1200-1800)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Endgames You Must Know | Jesus de la Villa | The essential practical positions — every club player should know these |
| Endgame Strategy | Mikhail Shereshevsky | Theme-based approach teaching strategic thinking in endgames |
| A Guide to Chess Endings | Max Euwe & David Hooper | Classic text covering fundamental endgame principles |
Advanced (1800+)
| Book | Author | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dvoretsky's Endgame Manual | Mark Dvoretsky | The gold standard — comprehensive and rigorous, for serious players |
| Fundamental Chess Endings | Müller & Lamprecht | Single-volume encyclopedia — excellent reference for looking up any ending |
Specialized
| Book | Author | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Rook Endings | Levenfish & Smyslov | Definitive rook endgame reference — a classic |
| Secrets of Pawn Endings | Müller & Lamprecht | Deep pawn endgame coverage with exercises |
| Bishop Endings | Jon Speelman | Detailed treatment of bishop endgame types |
| Practical Rook Endings | Victor Korchnoi | Insights from one of the greatest endgame players |
How to Choose
- Start with Silman if you're under 1600
- Add de la Villa when you reach 1600
- Use Dvoretsky as a reference when you reach 2000
- Specialize with topical books as needed
Online Resources
- Lichess Practice — Free endgame drills
- Chessable — Spaced repetition courses
- Syzygy Tablebases — Perfect play lookup