Computers, Chess, and Cognition [Hardcover]

Though this title is now dated and hard to find, it is a great introduction to the fundamentals of computer chess. If you are interested in computer chess, it's well worth seeking this title out!

Although this book is now 23 years old (where did the time go?), the software techniques are extremely relevant even though nearly all of the hardware has changed. The underlying algorithms, trees, etc. have changed surprisingly little, but of course because of the demise of arithmetic units and incorporation of search logic and the underlying math and algorithms in software more than hardware, the book is dated in that department.

On the other hand, very few books are written on any deep or real aspect of computer chess, as many techniques are STILL considered trade secrets (I have logic probed and JTAGed many cheap units from China-- it's my job at payroy dot com to protect the little guy inventor who suddenly finds his circuit in China!), so this book, even though a reprint, is still a gem. The same could be said about some HP and TI calculator math circuits and techniques.

On that note, if your credit card is quivering at the thought of slamming down $90 bucks on a reprint, regardless of how rare, try searching Amazon for the HARD cover original version first! Amazon almost always puts these on top of their listings, even for reprints, to be nice to us shoppers on a budget. There are, from time to time, even old library books that use Amazon warehouse shipping, and I saw one for $15 with free (Prime) shipping! Same book, probably a little beat up, but same info. On the other hand, collector's "new" versions are going on the same venue for over $400, so even the reprint is a value in that light if you're allergic to highlighting. A coworker of ours got an ex library book on harmonicas that was checked out by Elvis Presley and resold it through Abe's for $2,500!

That's another suggestion: when you find a very old book that's been reprinted for a LOT of money (unlike Dover, for example, who cuts them down to wonderful "novel" prices), try Amazon's "partner" -- Abe Books. Their link is at the top of Amazon's site and advertised as "rare" books, but they sell many books that are simply old and collectible too, and NOT always for a lot of money (although some are a million dollars etc.)- I found this title there (the hard cover in very good condition) for $21. As an Amazon partner, I find that Abe disciplines their network dealers to stay pretty honest about condition, just as Amazon does for it's own third party sellers with reviews, etc. I've seen some reviewers beat around the bush about this, but an Amazon sale is a sale, so what's the big deal? We're supposed to care about the Amazon shopper first folks.

Library Picks reviews only for the benefit of Amazon shoppers and has nothing to do with Amazon, the authors, manufacturers or publishers of the items we review. We always buy the items we review for the sake of objectivity, and although we search for gems, are not shy about trashing an item if it's a waste of time or money for Amazon shoppers. If the reviewer identifies herself, her job or her field, it is only as a point of reference to help you gauge the background and any biases.