Carl S. Portman

Chess Crusader: confessions of an amateur chess-player

Chess Crusader: confessions of an amateur chess-player

Regular price £7.59 GBP
Regular price £9.99 GBP Sale price £7.59 GBP
24% OFF Sold out
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

YOU SAVE £2.40

  • Condition: Brand new
  • UK Delivery times: Usually arrives within 2 - 3 working days
  • UK Shipping: Fee starts at £2.39. Subject to product weight & dimension
Trustpilot 4.5 stars rating  Excellent
We're rated excellent on Trustpilot.
  • More about Chess Crusader: confessions of an amateur chess-player


Grandmaster Carl is a gifted storyteller and natural entertainer, and his memoir is filled with a frank and refreshing honesty that will have your heart racing with adventure. It reveals how chess is a metaphor for life and how skills honed at the chess board can be applied in many real-life situations. It is a lively, enthralling account of a colourful life dominated by the black and white squares of the chessboard, and their relation to the wider issues of a troubled childhood and the challenges of work, women, love, and loss.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 352 pages
\n Publication date: 22 July 2021
\n Publisher: The Conrad Press
\n


Stuart Conquest, Grandmaster Carl, is a remarkable individual who possesses the dual talents of being a captivating entertainer and an accomplished storyteller. While this memoir primarily revolves around the world of chess, the tales within it are brimming with a frank and refreshing honesty that will leave your heart racing with excitement. Jovanka Houska, International Master Chess Crusader, has crafted an absolutely fascinating memoir that extends far beyond the realm of chess enthusiasts. It unveils the profound metaphorical significance of chess, demonstrating how the skills honed on the chessboard can be applied in various real-life situations. This captivating chronicle takes you on a journey from Birmingham to Moscow, immersing you in the life of an author with a remarkable and original mind. It also highlights the dangers of stealing a half-cooked sausage from a deranged German, adding a touch of humor to the narrative.

The story unfolds in a lively and enthralling manner, capturing the essence of a life dominated by the black and white squares of the chessboard. It explores the intricate relationship between these squares and the broader issues of a troubled childhood, the challenges of work, women, love, and loss. Through its pages, we witness the resilience and determination of the protagonist as they navigate through adversity and emerge stronger on the other side. It is a tale of adversity, but also of achievement, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences.

The writing style is engaging and evocative, drawing the reader into the protagonist's world and immersing them in their experiences. The chess games themselves are described in vivid detail, providing a deeper understanding of the strategies and tactics employed by the players. Moreover, the memoir offers valuable insights into the mental and emotional aspects of competitive chess, shedding light on the pressure, stress, and dedication required to excel in this field.

In conclusion, "Grandmaster Carl" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates a blend of humor, brutality, and profound introspection. Stuart Conquest's storytelling skills and Jovanka Houska's unique perspective on chess make this memoir a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of life's challenges and the power of resilience. Whether you are a chess enthusiast or simply seeking a compelling and entertaining story, this book will not disappoint.

\n Weight: 310g\n
Dimension: 131 x 196 x 29 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781913567866\n \n

This item can be found in:

UK and International shipping information

UK Delivery and returns information:

  • Delivery within 2 - 3 days when ordering in the UK.
  • Shipping fee for UK customers from £2.39. Fully tracked shipping service available.
  • Returns policy: Return within 30 days of receipt for full refund.

International deliveries:

Shulph Ink now ships to Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, India, Luxembourg Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Netherlands, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, United States of America.

  • Delivery times: within 5 - 10 days for international orders.
  • Shipping fee: charges vary for overseas orders. Only tracked services are available for most international orders. Some countries have untracked shipping options.
  • Customs charges: If ordering to addresses outside the United Kingdom, you may or may not incur additional customs and duties fees during local delivery.
View full details